FORMER trainer and jockey Patrick Keane from Kildare passed away recently, aged 73.

As an apprentice he served his time with John Oxx Snr before moving to Somerset where he rode winners over jumps for owner Peter Blackburn and assisted trainer Susan Morris. He also worked for trainer George Span and was a champion boxer among stable staff.

Returning to Ireland in 1983 he held a licence on the Curragh and his owners included Baroness Tyson. Multiple winner Blue African was one of his best horses. He later worked in Joe Canty’s yard where he broke in future dual Derby winner Kahyasi.He is survived by his partner Marion Cullinane.