A health setback means that Pat Smullen will not be able to take his place in the race named in his honour on Longines Irish Champions Weekend.
The former nine-time Irish champion jockey was set to line up against nine of his retired weighing-room colleauges—all champions in their own right—for the race at the Curragh on Sept. 15 which will be raising funds for Cancer Trials Ireland.
“Unfortunately I've had a setback with my health and have to undergo chemotherapy. On advice from my medical team I am unable to ride in the Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland. I am bitterly disappointed not to be able to take part in this very special race—I was really looking forward to riding against such a brilliant group of champions, especially at The Curragh,” said Smullen, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2018 and announced his retirement from the saddle in May this year.
“I've spoken to Horse Racing Ireland who are helping me with the fundraising activity over Longines Irish Champions Weekend and I am more determined than ever that the fundraising activity goes ahead as pancreatic cancer needs more awareness now than ever before.”
Since the beginning of the Flat season, Smullen has been writing a weekly column for TDN and this will resume once his treatment has been completed.
“We have greatly enjoyed Pat Smullen bringing his authoritative take to the season's action as a valued member of our editorial team,” said TDN's European Editor Emma Berry. “We all wish Pat the very best during his treatment and recovery and look forward to his return when he is ready.”
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