Daryl Jacob pays tribute to trainer Richard Woollacott, who has died at the age of 40.
I was so shocked to learn of the death of Richard Woollacott on Tuesday morning.
It’s terribly sad news and my condolences go out to all his family and friends, especially his children. It’s very, very tough for them. My wife Kelly and I send our love to all.
We met in the point-to-point field - an area that will feel Richard’s loss particularly strongly. He loved the sport and had many friends in that sphere. I met him whenever I came over from Ireland and we’ve been great friends ever since.
We used to ride against each other, then I turned conditional and he went into training where he tasted a lot of success and saddled plenty of winners.
I was fortunate enough to ride some of them which was always special.
He was a wonderful trainer, a great man and a huge help when I first came over from Ireland. I’ll always remember him and the assistance he gave me. I will sorely miss him.
