Racegoers to pay respects to jockey at Countryside Alliance point-to-point

A minute’s silence will be held before racing commences at the Countryside Alliance point-to-point at Badbury Rings on Sunday 18 February in honour of Keagan Kirkby who died last Sunday (4 February 2024) when his mount ran out through the wing of a fence during a point-to-point at Charing in Kent.

This meeting will be the first held in the Wessex Area since the accident and will give racegoers the chance to pay their respects to Somerset-based Keagan, 25, who worked for champion trainer Paul Nicholls. Keagan started his career in racing with Jeremy Scott where he had his first rides on his own horse, Lad From Highworth. He then went on to work for Will Biddick and had spent the past five years with Nicholls.

Keagan’s first winner between the flags came on Ask For Glory which was his 50th ride. He went on to have five winners during the 2022/3 season, including a treble at Aldington on Easter Monday. Keagan claimed his sixth and final victory on New Year’s Eve at Horseheath on Imperial Esprit (pictured above), having finished second on the same horse at Badbury Rings last November. 
Tributes have been pouring in following this tragic accident and the Alliance sends sincere condolences to Keagan’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.

A Just Giving page has been set up to help fund Keagan’s funeral and create a memorial in his honour. Donations can be made here.

Tickets for the Countryside Alliance point-to-point at Badbury Rings are available to buy in advance for £12.50 per person online here or can be purchased by card or cash on the day is £15 per person.

There are also a limited number of Patrons’ tickets available too. These offer a thrilling race day experience which includes entry and parking. Other inclusive benefits of the Patron’s package are all-day access to the designated marquee area which is positioned in a prime location and offers seating, a welcome aperitif and buffet lunch, refreshments throughout the day and a complimentary race card.

Tickets for the Patrons' area cost £45 each and must be ordered before 10am on Monday, 12 February. You can purchase your patrons’ tickets here.

Image: Neale Blackburn