THE Irish equestrian community turned out in droves for the funeral mass of Tom Moloney in Kilkenny last Tuesday, bidding their final farewell to one of Ireland’s most popular equestrian greats.

Hailing from Warrington in Kilkenny, where he and his wife Ann established the hugely successful Warrington Top Flight Equestrian Centre, Tom Moloney was a respected horseman, breeder and farmer.

Father of international show jumping riders Richie and Eddie, and Thomas, Ellie and Marie, Tom was often spotted at shows around the world.

He was rewarded with a special ‘Outstanding Contribution to Irish Sport Horse Breeding’ award in 2017, and among others, also received an award from the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) for his part in the 1960s campaign to improve farmers’ rights.

The dedicated family man passed away at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kilkenny last Saturday morning.

He will be sadly missed by his wife and children, brother Ned, sisters Biddy and Chris, his children’s spouses and partners, grandchildren, in-laws, nephews, nieces, relatives and a wide circle of friends in the equestrian community and beyond.

An obituary will follow at a later date.