Horse racing world left devastated by sudden death of 27-year-old amateur jockey

Amateur jockey Sam Lee sadly passed away aged 27 on Friday.

Statements have been released to announce that Lee, who rode four winners under rules during his career, died suddenly.

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The Injured Jockeys Fund and Point-To-Point Authority said on Saturday: “The point-to-point world is devastated to hear of the sudden death of Sam Lee.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to Sam’s family and his many friends.

“Sam was a hugely popular figure on the point-to-point scene and his tragic death is a huge shock for everyone.

“This weekend’s point-to-point race meetings will be holding a minute’s silence ahead of racing in memory of Sam.”

Lee’s fellow jockeys paid their respects before racing at Sandown Park, Wolverhampton and Ayr, among many other locations.

Chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, Brant Dunshea, has also paid tribute to Lee after his passing.

Dunshea said: “We are all shocked and upset to hear about the death of amateur jockey Sam Lee.

“Amateur jockeys are an integral part of our sport, its community and its rich history. Every jockey, professional or amateur, will be mourning today the death of a colleague and friend, as will everyone across British racing.

“The sport has in place services to provide care and support to those close to Sam. That support is available to everyone in our sport and anyone affected by this issue is encouraged to call them.

“Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”

More tributes

Lee tasted success under rules but also in point-to-point racing, winning many times for various trainers.

One of those was Francesca Poste, who posted about her jockey’s sudden death in a statement.

Poste wrote: “Sam, you had become a huge part of our team over the last 6 months. You were a larger-than-life character; you made the dull mornings seem bright.

“Always full of energy, immaculately turned out, and impeccably well-mannered. You loved the horses, you were kind and generous, and most of all, you wanted our team to do well.

“It certainly is going to be a very sad place without you.”

Meanwhile, a former trainer of Lee’s, Laura Morgan, said, via Racing Post: “Poor Sam, it’s absolutely horrendous news – such a young life.

“He worked for me for a year and he had a couple of rides but his love was point-to-pointing. He had years of experience.

“He was lovely and such a bubbly guy, he brightened up the room and he’d always be having a laugh and a joke – he was such fun to be around.”

“He was immaculately dressed whenever he went racing, he took pride in his job and his little terrier George was part of the furniture in the yard,” she added.

“Cheltenham was his love. He was a member there and it was his love. He’d have been there next week.”