Jockey Keagan Kirkby, dies at 25 after a fall in a point-to-point race

Keagan Kirkby, a point-to-point jockey and groom for Paul Nicholls, has passed away ensuing a fall at the Charing meeting on Sunday.

The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) stated that Kirkby was riding at the meeting in Kent when his horse ran through the wing of a fence during the final race of the day.
IJF shared the following statement:

“It is with deep sadness that we have to report that West Country point-to-point rider, Keagan Kirkby, 25, has died following a fall at Charing point-to-point in Kent today.

“His horse, trained locally, ran out through the wing of a fence on the second circuit of the final race. The on-course medical team attended immediately and despite additional support from a 999 Helicopter Emergency Services crew, he could not be saved.

“Keagan was a respected member of the Paul Nicholls team, who joined in 2019 and who had been awarded employee of the month in December 2021. He was shortlisted for the 2024 Thoroughbred Industry Employee awards in the rider/groom category".

“We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of Keagan’s family and the team at Paul Nicholls Racing at this tragic time.”

Champion trainer Nicholls said, sharing his condolences on X (formerly Twitter):

“Life is so hard sometimes, winners totally insignificant compared to what has happened today.

“Sadly Keagan Kirby, one of our best, hard-working lads, lost his life today riding in a point-to-point. All at team Ditcheat are mortified. Thoughts with all his friends and family.”