‘You made dull mornings seem bright’: shock and sadness after jockey’s sudden death

A minute’s silence was held before racing on Saturday (7 March) in tribute to amateur jockey Sam Lee.

Tributes have been paid to the 27-year-old amateur rider, who died on 6 March.

In a joint statement, the Injured Jockeys Fund and Point-to-Point Authority said: “The point-to-point world is devastated to hear of the sudden death of Sam Lee on Friday, 6 March. Our deepest sympathies go out to Sam’s family and his many friends.

“Sam, 27, 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.”

Sam rode four winners under Rules, including a listed handicap hurdle at Cheltenham in November 2019, and many in pointing. He was based with Francesca and Charlie Poste of Station Yard Racing, who said: “Sam, you had become a huge part of our team over the last six 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 be a very sad place without you.”

British Horseracing Authority chief executive Brant Dunshea said the racing world is shocked and upset.

“Amateur jockeys are an integral part of our sport, its community, and its rich history,” he said. “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 services in place 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.”