RODDY MacKenzie, former jump jockey, has died suddenly in the USA, following a brain haemorrhage. He was 45.

From Dunamanagh in Co Tyrone, he began his career with Jim Bolger and worked for Noel Meade and Francis Flood, and had a spell with Ian Williams in England, before moving to the States over 20 years ago.

In America, he rode over jumps and was a work rider in Maryland, New Orleans and Camden. He was in Delaware when he died.

His two biggest winners were with Wally Pinkard’s Won Wild Bird, trained by Regina Welsh, in the 2012 Pennsylvania Hunt Cup, and the 2013 the David L. “Zeke” Ferguson Stakes at Colonial Downs with Meritage Racing’s Inti, trained by Cyril Murphy.

He secured the champion apprentice title in 2010 and overall, compiled a record of 25 wins, 48 seconds, and 41 thirds in 326 starts, with earnings of $611,750. He spent time with Michael Dickinson when first arriving in America and this association was said to have given him the leg-up to reignite his race riding career.

Six years ago, MacKenzie suffered several broken bones in a freak riding accident at the Fair Grounds racetrack in New Orleans, but he made a remarkable recovery.

Since retiring from race-riding, he broke in young horses, rode out and provided equine salt therapy services.

He was admired by those who knew him, for his incredible work ethic and love of horses.

He is survived by his parents, Bill and Elizabeth (nee Comerford of Jerpoint, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny), brother Allan and sisters, Alison, Rhona and Patricia.

A memorial service will be held in Donemana Presbyterian Church, Church View, Donemana, Co Tyrone, BT82 0PB on Wednesday, February 26th 2025 at 1pm. All are welcome.