RIP: Funeral details announced for young jockey killed in Christmas Eve car crash

A community is in mourning this week following the tragic death of young aspiring jockey Paul Kavanagh, who has been described as an absolute gentleman who always had a smile.

21-year-old Paul, late of College Green, Tuam, Athlacca, Limerick and formerly of Ballybrone, Corofin, Galway, was killed following a collision with a truck on the N20 in the Buree area of Limerick between 1.40am and 2.15am on Christmas Eve. 

READ NEXT: 'Unacceptable' - Nearly 115,000 patients admitted to hospital in 2025 without a bed

The driver of the truck, a man in his 20s, was conveyed to University of Limerick Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Paul had been part of renowned trainer Enda Bolger's yard, Howardstown, in Limerick for the past two years. He has also ridden for trainer David Loughnane in the UK.

In his death notice on RIP.ie, Paul's family said.

"Our treasured Paul tragically passed away on 24th December 2025 following a car accident. Beloved grandson of the late Teresa Kavanagh and Mark and Bernie Carr.

!Paul will be forever loved and missed by his heartbroken parents Kevin and Alison, devoted sister and brother Grace and Ryan, his cherished grandad Martin, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, his wide circle of friends, his colleagues at Enda Bolger’s yard and the close-knit horse racing community."

Hundreds of tributes and heartfelt condolences have been posted on social media and RIP.ie from those who knew and fondly remembered Paul.

Irish Injured Jockeys posted the following message on their social media page following Paul's tragic passing,

READ NEXT: Ryanair warns Irish passengers of 'significant delays' out of popular Spanish airports

"Irish Injured Jockeys are deeply saddened by the passing of Paul Kavanagh in a car accident on Christmas Eve. Paul had been attending our facility to get himself back from an injury to do the job he adored. He was so grateful for our help and as it very evident from all the tributes to him was an extremely popular and decent young man.

"Our heartfelt sympathy to his parents Kevin and Alison, his siblings Grace and Ryan , grandad Martin, extended family , his many friends and his racing family where he was so loved."

While other messages of grief and support for Paul's family said,

"My condolences to Pauls family and friends and all at Endas yard. Had the pleasure working with paul, he was a kind gentleman. Rest in peace."

And,

"Our Deepest and Sincerest sympathies to Kevin, Alison, Ryan and Grace, your beloved grandad Martin and all the extended Kavanagh & Carr families. Please god you will find strength to guide you over these dark days and in the days ahead. Paul was a gentleman and an absolute credit to you all. Never without a smile. May his very gentle soul rest in peace. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers."

READ NEXT: 'Wrap up!' - Temperatures set to plunge as experts give verdict on New Year's snow

Funeral Arrangements

Paul will be reposing at Grogan’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Tuam (H54Y677) on Friday evening from 5pm until 8pm, followed by removal to his home.

Requiem Mass on Saturday at 11.30am in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Tuam. Funeral afterwards to Tuam Cemetery.

A livestream of Paul's funeral service will be available here