Vivian Kennedy
Vivian Francis Mary Kennedy, regarded as one of the country's most popular riders, was attached to Charlie Brooks' stable at Lambourn. Brooks had taken over the licence from Fred Winter.
Vivian Francis Mary Kennedy, regarded as one of the country's most popular riders, was attached to Charlie Brooks' stable at Lambourn. Brooks had taken over the licence from Fred Winter.
During the summer he rode for his father in Ireland and spent a spell in the United States, gaining experience to improve his riding technique.
During the summer he rode for his father in Ireland and spent a spell in the United States, gaining experience to improve his riding technique.
On Monday, 29 August, 1988, Vivian accepted the ride on Wessex Milord in the Godmanchester Novices' Hurdle at Huntingdon.
On Monday, 29 August, 1988, Vivian accepted the ride on Wessex Milord in the Godmanchester Novices' Hurdle at Huntingdon.
Wessex Milord, having his first race over hurdles, fell two flights from home.
Wessex Milord, having his first race over hurdles, fell two flights from home.
Vivian, 23, broke his neck and suffered severe head injuries. He never regained consciousness.
Vivian, 23, broke his neck and suffered severe head injuries. He never regained consciousness.
James Railton, a young weighing room colleague and friend said: 'He was very popular in Lambourn. A very down-to-earth character and sensible. He had a good future ahead of him. We are all shocked.'
James Railton, a young weighing room colleague and friend said: 'He was very popular in Lambourn. A very down-to-earth character and sensible. He had a good future ahead of him. We are all shocked.'
A spokesman for the Jockey Club added: 'Racing has lost a brave and talented horseman.'
A spokesman for the Jockey Club added: 'Racing has lost a brave and talented horseman.'
In an all-too-short career, Vivian rode 17 winners.
In an all-too-short career, Vivian rode 17 winners.