Jerry Russell, father of three-time champion jockey Davy, dies aged 85

Jerry Russell, father of the dual Grand National-winning rider Davy, died suddenly on Friday aged 85.

A father of six, Russell took great pride in his son's achievements and was an enormous influence in the formative years of the three-time champion jockey's decorated career. He bred horses, ponies and point-to-pointers, while he was also a hugely respected member of the community in Youghal, County Cork, serving as chairman of the town council and involved in his local GAA club. 

A mechanic and car dealer by trade, he caused a stir at the Cheltenham Festival in 1982 when he drove a ride-on lawnmower 27 miles to the track to satisfy his side of a bet struck the night before during a poker game in a house in the Cotswolds.

After parking in between a Bentley and a Rolls Royce, the mayor of Cheltenham recognised his endeavours by providing him with a trophy later in the day.

Russell also bred and owned Youghal By The Sea, who was ridden to a special success by his son in a maiden hurdle at Downpatrick in July 2018 when trained by Gordon Elliott.

After steering home the even-money favourite in his father's colours, the winning jockey said: "It's probably one of the most important winners I've ever ridden!

"The pressure that was on me coming up the road to here was unbelievable. We travelled up together and he didn't open his mouth the whole way up so I knew there was something on. He is the coolest man of them all."

Predeceased by his wife Phyllis, Russell will repose at Egan's Funeral Home, Greencloyne, Youghal from 4.30pm on Monday, followed by prayers at 7.30pm. Requiem mass on Christmas Eve at 11.30am in the Holy Family Church in Youghal with funeral afterwards to North Abbey Cemetery.