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Legendary Irish racehorse trainer Edward O'Grady dies aged 75
Irish racehorse trainer Edward O'Grady has died at the age of 75 years old.
The Dublin native was based in County Tipperary and was one of Ireland's most successful trainers at the Cheltenham Festival with 18 winners.
Mr O'Grady's death comes eight years following the tragic death of his wife Maria, who died in 2017 after falling from her horse while hunting. Irish racehorse trainer Edward O'Grady has died at the age of 75 years old. Pic: INPHO/Cathal Noonan
The Dubliner took over Killeen Stables following the death of his father, Willie, in 1972 but quickly made his own name for himself when he had his first Cheltenham winner, Mr Midland, in 1974.
O'Grady had a close relationship with Limerick millionaire JP McManus, with the pair teaming up to win the Galway Plate in 1978, as well as a host of the other accolades.
Of the horses backed by O'Grady, Golden Cygnet was one set for stardom, and won the Supreme Novices' Hurdle in Cheltanham in 1978. The Dubliner took over Killeen Stables following the death of his father, Willie, in 1972 but quickly made his own name for himself when he had his first Cheltenham winner, Mr Midland, in 1974. Pic:Unfortunately, tragedy struck when the horse suffered a fatal fall the following month.
Other talented horses trained by O'Grady included Hind Hope and Rugged Lucy, and more recently Ned Kelly, who won 12 out of 27 starts.
Mr O'Grady is predeceased by his wife Maria, and survived by his children Jonathan, Amber, Lucy, Mimi, Rosie Mae. Other talented horses trained by O'Grady included Hind Hope and Rugged Lucy, and more recently Ned Kelly, who won 12 out of 27 starts. Pic: INPHO/Bryan Keane
Maria died in 2017 following a tragic fall from her horse while she was out hunting.
A statement issued at the time by Jonathan, on behalf of the family said: 'On behalf of Edward and family, it is with shock and profound sorrow that I confirm Maria O'Grady died suddenly today following a tragic fall on the hunting field.
'Beloved wife, revered mother and ardent friend, she will be inordinately missed. RIP.'
Edward O'Grady. We've lost another giant of the game. Pierce Brosnan even played him in a movie. Golden Cygnet, Jack Of Trumps, Drumlargan, Mister Donovan, Bit Of A Skite, Mr Midland and Prolan were just a few of the early stars, but there were many many more. God rest him. — Gary Kelly (@maxcouch) July 28, 2025
Tributes are pouring in online following news of Mr O'Grady's passing with one writing: 'We've lost another giant of the game.
'Pierce Brosnan even played him in a movie. Golden Cygnet, Jack Of Trumps, Drumlargan, Mister Donovan, Bit Of A Skirt, Mr Midland and Prolan were just a few of the early stars, but there were many more.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Edward O'Grady, a true legend of racing whose horses brought many memories and successes to Naas and condolences go out to his family, friends and all who knew him during this difficult time.
May he rest in peace🙏
