WE were all very shocked and saddened by the recent sudden passing of James (Jimmy) Mahon, at the age of 72.

Jimmy was an exemplary horseman, one of the old school, who had a wonderful way with horses. He was also tremendously respected by all who knew him, being a great character, witty, kind and always willing to impart his considerable knowledge particularly to younger people.

Jimmy was stud manager in Corbally Stud for over 35 years. During his tenure, the stud farm produced many group race winners, most notably champion and multiple Group 1 winner Kooyonga, Champion Stakes winner Legal Case and Flutter Away, winner of the Moyglare Stud Stakes.

Jimmy attended most of the foalings and was also in charge of the Corbally Stud stallion roster which included Persian Bold, Priolo, Pennine Walk, Desert Style, and more.

In the 1980s, Corbally Stud was voted in the top 10 leading commercial stud farms in Europe (Thoroughbred Times poll). A fantastic achievement by a small private family farm, Jimmy played a pivotal role in its success.

Corbally Stud was sold in the early noughties, and Jimmy joined us at Derrinstown Stud in the role of senior stallion man.

There was no one more uniquely qualified for this position than Jimmy, who turned out his horses with meticulous care and attention to detail and always taking great pride in his work.

We enjoyed considerable success with our stallions Marju, Alhaarth, Elnadim, Intikhab and Almutawakel during his many years with us.

On his retirement in 2016, he was selected as a finalist at the Godolphin Stud and Stable Awards, a tribute he richly deserved for his great professionalism, dedication and most important service to the bloodstock industry. He was a wonderful friend and colleague and will be greatly missed by us all.

We would like to offer our deepest sympathy to his beloved wife Pamela, sons Conall and Lochlainn, and all his extended family at this particularly sad and difficult time. May he rest in eternal peace.