THE death took place last Monday of racing personality Paraic O’Rourke after a short illness.

A native of Sallins, Co Kildare, he moved to Kilkenny where in 1982 he established the Kilkenny Block Co Ltd, which he grew into a thriving business.

Paraic was a talented golfer. Paul McGinley’s words of admiration last Tuesday says much of Paraic’s standing in the golf world. He won the South of Ireland Amateur Open Championship in 1979, 1981 and 1985 and represented Ireland 30 times at senior international level.

He was a director of Gowran Park Racecourse for over 25 years. He was instrumental in the creation and direction of Gowran Park Golf Course. He brought in Jeff Howes to design the layout and its subsequent success was a matter of great pride for Paraic.

His practical mind and his business acumen were invaluable to the Gowran Park Board when faced with difficult decisions. Paraic wanted what was best for Gowran Park. His clarity of thinking and his many contacts all contributed to its development.

Racing was always a big interest and he supported several trainers. He was a part owner of the 2003 Galway Plate winner Nearly A Moose, trained by Paddy Mullins.

Cape Gentleman won six races for Paraic including the Grade 2 Dovecote Hurdle at Kempton in 2021. The home-bred Smooth Tom is an eight time winner with trainer Andy Slattery.

Paraic’s wife Margaret became a Grade 1-winning owner at last April’s Fairyhouse Festival when Fleur In The Park won the WillowWarm Gold Cup. Sadly Paraic was unable to attend his beloved Gowran Park when that horse recently won the Grade 2 PWC Danoli Chase.

Paraic was a larger than life character. He was full of energy, gregarious and was at his best when in the centre of any lively debate concerning golf, racing or politics. He loved to tell a good story and always with a ready glint in his eye. He was a good friend to many.

The large gathering at his funeral was a tribute to his life’s achievements and the warm impression he left on so many people. Deepest sympathies to Margaret, Alan and Emma. May he rest in peace. V.C.