Michael Kavanagh

Michael Kavanagh

There have been instances of twins riding in the same race, most notably Michael and Richard Hills, who competed against each other on countless occasions during their long and successful careers. However, such occurrences are rare, particularly in National Hunt racing.

One notable exception is the Irish-born twins Henry and Michael Kavanagh, who were born on 1 August 1943 in County Wicklow. Both went on to become National Hunt jockeys.

Although their parents named them Henry and Michael, an amusing mix-up occurred when the twins were confirmed at around the age of seven at the Catholic church in Dunlavin, County Wicklow. It was customary for children to adopt a second name at confirmation, and the mischievous pair decided to swap names for the occasion—without informing their parents. The switch inevitably led to a few complications later in life.

Of the two, Henry enjoyed the more successful riding career, notching up 24 winners over jumps in Britain. He rode his first winner in October 1966, but a fall five years later brought his career to a premature end.

Michael, although less successful, actually struck first. His maiden British victory came aboard Methane, trained by Jim Wibberley, in Division 2 of the Summer Handicap Hurdle at Stratford on 4 June 1966. He won by two and a half lengths from Red Falcon, ridden by Joe Guest. His only other success came at Newcastle on 23 October 1968, when he won the Wagtail (Professional Riders) Selling Handicap Chase on the 15-year-old Bright Lancer, beating just two rivals.

Bright Lancer made only one further appearance, when Henry rode him in a selling chase at Cheltenham the following month. Michael also rode in the race, partnering Hazzi Baba. Both horses were pulled up, but it was a rare and memorable occasion—twins competing against each other in a steeplechase.

Michael retired shortly afterwards, relinquishing his licence in March 1969 with two British jump winners to his credit.