RACEHORSE owner and medical officer Dr T.A. (Alfie) O’Donovan of Ballyduff Upper, Co Waterford, passed away recently.

He was a well-known personality on the racing and point-to-point scene in the Cork & Waterford region for many years. An enthusiastic owner, he enjoyed many successful days with the winners Bobby Miller, Barrigan’s Hill, Slobby Malone and Ballykeereen, all of whom raced in the colours of his late wife, Kay.

Alfie served for many years as medical officer at his local meetings, Lismore, Tallow, Ballynoe, Kilworth and Dungarvan, but his services were often called upon by committees further afield.

A phone call midweek would plead: “Doc, we have no medical officer for the races. Can you do it for us?” If it was at all possible, Alfie would not let them down. He loved his job and he loved his racing; working at the point-to-point meeting was not a chore.

The qualities which he brought to his work as a GP were evident to all in his work on the racecourse. His was a no-nonsense approach. He was clear-thinking, an excellent diagnostician, efficient, caring and pragmatic.

Many an injured jockey or member of the public had ample cause to be grateful for his skills. Dr O’Donovan’s commitment to the welfare of all involved in point-to-points in his area is fondly remembered by those who knew him.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.