Eddie Harty, the legendary jockey who remains the sole Olympian ever to triumph in the Grand National, has died aged 88.
His passing comes mere days after that of his wife Patricia, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond throughout their lives together.
Harty Racing confirmed the news through a statement on social media, describing him as someone with “an enormous personality who accomplished so much in life not least shaping some great people.”
The couple’s deaths occurring in such close succession has struck those who knew them as a testament to their profound connection.
Patricia passed away last week, and her husband followed shortly afterwards.
Harty’s sporting achievements spanned multiple equestrian disciplines at the highest level.
He represented Ireland at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, where he secured ninth place individually whilst helping his team finish sixth in their competition.
Following his Olympic career, he turned his attention to racing in Britain, where he would cement his place in sporting history.
Eddie Harty remains the sole Olympian ever to triumph in the Grand National
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PA
His crowning moment arrived at Aintree in 1969 when he claimed victory in the world-famous steeplechase, becoming the only athlete to have competed at the Olympics and subsequently won the Grand National.
Beyond this historic triumph, Harty also captured the Topham Chase on two occasions.
His son Eddie described the timing of his father’s death as remarkable given the couple’s lifelong closeness.
He said: “It’s uncanny that he died so quickly after Mum. They were inseparable.”
His passing came merely days after his wife Patricia
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PA
Eddie added: “My wife’s sister Valerie said it was the most romantic thing she had ever heard that he went so quickly after her. His heart was broken.”
The younger Eddie also reflected on his father’s character and contributions to the sport.
He said: “He did an awful lot in his life and he never let us forget it!”, adding that much of his work for the racing industry remained “unsung” despite its significance.
Harty came from Ireland’s most distinguished racing dynasty, with both his grandfather and father prominent in the sport.
Eddie Hart has died aged 88
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GETTY
That legacy now continues through the next generations, with his son Eddie and grandson Patrick maintaining the family tradition.
The pair operate under a joint-training licence from their base in Curragh, County Kildare.
News of the racing icon’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, with fans expressing their condolences to the family.
One supporter wrote: “Very sorry to hear this. Thoughts with you all,” while others offered simple messages of respect for a man who achieved so much across his remarkable career.