THE Irish equestrian community, north and south, is in deep shock following a fatal road accident that tragically claimed the lives of two of the country’s best known sport horse breeders.

The fatal accident that occurred in Castleblayney, Co Monaghan, on Thursday tragically claimed the lives of devoted husband and wife, Mr and Mrs Ronnie and Jean Hollinger of Creevagh House Stud, Ballybay, Co Monaghan.

Together the Hollingers worked tirelessly throughout their lives to build Creevagh House Stud up to one of the best known sport horse studs in the country with many Creevagh graduates going on to compete at the highest level internationally.

News of the tragic accident sent shockwaves through the Irish equestrian community at home and abroad. It’s understood that another lady, also with strong equestrian connections, remains in critical condition in hospital as a result of the accident.

A Garda investigation is underway into all the circumstances of the fatal road collision which involved a large truck and several cars.

Tributes poured in on social media to the late couple nationwide with many people expressing profound shock and sadness at the loss of such lovely people who always did so much to help others.

A tribute from Horse Sport Ireland released yesterday afternoon said: “All at Horse Sport Ireland are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Ronnie and Jean Hollinger of Creevagh House Stud, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan following a road traffic accident yesterday (Thursday, 27th October 2022).

“The Hollinger family and Creevagh prefix are hugely well-known throughout the Irish Sport Horse industry and our thoughts and prayers are with their family and many friends at this very difficult time. May they Rest In Peace.’’

Tragic death of child

Separately, a young child, believed to be around two years old, was officially confirmed by Gardaí to have died in another tragic accident in the Rush area of North County Dublin on Wednesday. It’s understood the little girl was fatally injured when a gate fell on her. Local reports indicate that a horse belonging to her family may have dislodged the gate. Her heartbroken family are well known in the area through the motor trade. The child’s name was not released by Gardaí.

A spokesperson for the Garda Press Office said: “Gardaí attended an incident in the Rush area of Fingal, Co Dublin at approximately 5pm on Wednesday, 26th October 2022. A female child was pronounced deceased at the scene. A file has been prepared for the Coroner in respect of this incident.”

The Irish Field extends its deepest sympathies to the families and friends affected by these tragedies. A full tribute will be paid in a future issue to the enormous contribution of the Hollingers RIP.