Racing trainer Henry de Bromhead has thanked fans and the racing industry for their support in an emotional interview following the tragic death of his 13-year-old son.
Jack de Bromhead sadly passed away in a horse racing accident at Glenbeigh in Co Kerry in September.
He had been riding on Rossbeigh beach in a two-day event known as the flapper races when tragedy struck during the fifth run at around 5pm.
He fell from his horse as they turned near the water's edge, with some of the horses ending up in the water.
Jack's devastated father, Henry, an award-winning trainer with stables at Knockeen in Co Waterford, returned to a racecourse for the first time on Thursday when visiting Thurles.
The trainer is well-known for his huge success with wins at the Grand National in 2021 and two Cheltenham Gold Cups in 2021 and 2022.
In an interview, the 49-year-old told former jockey Ruby Walsh, that he and his family have been "blown away" by the support of people in the sport at this tough time.
He said: "With Jack, we have had a pretty tough time.
"Firstly, your tribute to him was incredible. It blew us away.
"We have had a lot of tough weeks, but the support from our family, friends and this industry, all over, has been unbelievable.
"Heather, Georgia, Mia and myself have been blown away by it.
"Every little bit of support we get give us a little bit of strength.
"We feel incredibly lucky to have everyone around us."
Viewers were left heartbroken by Henry De Bromhead's touching words.
One person wrote: "What a great man - thoughts continue to be with Henry and his wife and family".
A second said: "How lovely to hear the strength being garnered by the deBromhead family from industry wide support".
"Thought with you and your family great to see you back on a racetrack", said a third.
While a fourth wrote: "So much love for Henry and his family. What a dignified interview in the face of such heartbreak."
Jack was laid to rest on September 3rd following a celebration of his fun-loving spirit to which his family asked that people wear brightly coloured clothes.
A funeral notice read: "On September 3rd we said goodbye to our extraordinary, beautiful 13 year old son, Jack.
"A one-of-a-kind child who touched all our lives in the best way possible - he will be forever present in our lives.
"Always cherished, always loved."
READ NEXT:
- Central Bank governor backs mortgage rule change which will push up house prices
Marc MacSharry's readmission to Fianna Fail 'on hold' due to an 'issue that has arisen'
Vladimir Putin introduces martial law in Russian-held parts of Ukraine
Irish mum fighting stage 4 cancer after developing symptoms when pregnant
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter
