The family of tragic jockey Michael O’Sullivan, who died after a racetrack fall earlier this year, is poised to raise over €60,000 by participating in the Cork City Marathon. The funds will benefit the center that provided invaluable support and allowed them to spend precious moments with him during his final days.
Michael’s brother, Alan (22), and his cousins, David O’Sullivan (24) and Sonny McCartan (18), are preparing to run the half marathon portion of Sunday’s event. Their goal is to raise funds for Brú Columbanus, a charity that offers free accommodation to families of seriously ill patients in Cork hospitals.
“When Michael was in intensive care at Cork University Hospital (CUH), Brú Columbanus became a sanctuary for the O’Sullivan family,” explained Michael’s aunt, Marguerite.
“It offered a peaceful and compassionate environment where they could stay close to Michael, providing support to him and to each other during those critical days. It allowed them to have precious time together — moments that are irreplaceable.”
Michael, 24, from Lombardstown, Co. Cork, was riding Wee Charlie for Gerard O’Leary when he was involved in a three-horse fall at the final fence of a handicap chase in Thurles on February 6th.
He received immediate treatment at the track before being airlifted in critical condition to CUH. There, he was placed in an induced coma and remained critically ill until his passing 10 days later. The family stayed at Brú Columbanus’s Wilton residence throughout those difficult nights, ensuring they remained near Michael at all times.
Marguerite stated that the family is deeply grateful for the care and support they received during this challenging period. They hope to give back by creating an “impactful” tribute to Michael’s memory, ensuring that other families facing similar crises can access the same comfort and support.
As of Friday, their half marathon fundraising initiative was approaching an impressive €60,000. Anne Maria O’Connor, chief executive of Brú Columbanus, confirmed that this is the largest sum ever raised by a single fundraiser for the charity.
She said:
Marguerite mentioned that a team of approximately 70 family members, friends, and supporters, all donning t-shirts featuring a photograph of Michael, will be cheering on the three runners on Sunday.
You can support their fundraiser here.
Michael’s brother and cousin will be among thousands of amateur and elite runners participating in the sold-out Cork City Council-organized event. The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, and a 10k, and is projected to raise an estimated €250,000 for local and national charities.
Race director Eamon Hayes encouraged every runner to ensure their miles have a positive and lasting impact beyond race day.
“Whether it’s a cause that has touched your life or one that inspires you, now is the time to get behind it. Fundraising is part of what makes this event so meaningful,” he said.
The full marathon commences on St Patrick’s St at 8:15 am, followed by the 10k at the same location at 8:45 am. The half marathon begins at Monahan Road at 10:15 am.
Detailed information regarding bag drop locations, race number collection, road closures, and course maps can be found on the Cork city marathon website.
