The racing world is mourning the loss of Sam Lee, the amateur National Hunt jockey who has died aged 27, with his passing confirmed today.
Lee established himself as a well-respected and much-loved presence within British point-to-point racing throughout his career.
His finest moment under rules came in November 2019 when he partnered Golan Fortune to victory in the Listed Spinal Injuries Association Big Buck's Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham, trained by Phil Middleton.
That success subsequently earned the pair a place in the Coral Cup at the 2020 Cheltenham Festival.
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Throughout his riding career, Lee secured four victories under official British Horseracing Authority rules.
The Injured Jockeys Fund and Point-to-Point Authority released a joint statement declaring the community "devastated" by the news.
It read: "The point-to-point world is devastated to hear of the sudden death of Sam Lee on Friday, March 6.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to Sam’s family and his many friends.
The racing world is mourning the loss of Sam Lee
|ITV
It added: "Sam, 27, was a hugely popular figure on the point-to-point scene and his tragic death is a huge shock for everyone.
"This weekend’s point-to-point race meetings will be holding a minute’s silence ahead of racing in memory of Sam."
Brant Dunshea, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, expressed his shock and sadness.
He stated amateur jockeys are an "integral part" of the sport's history.
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Brant Dunshea, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, expressed his shock and sadness
|PA
He said: "We are all shocked and upset to hear about the death of amateur jockey Sam Lee.
"Amateur jockeys are an integral part of our sport, its community and its rich history.
"Every jockey, professional or amateur, will be mourning today the death of a colleague and friend, as will everyone across British racing.
"The sport has in place services to provide care and support to those close to Sam."
Dunshea added: "That support is available to everyone in our sport and anyone affected by this issue is encouraged to call them.
"Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”
In tribute to Lee, every point-to-point fixture taking place across the country this weekend will observe a minute's silence in his memory.
Lee had been highly regarded by fellow riders and officials alike on the point-to-point circuit.
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