Tractor run for Kildare jockey a great success 

A TRACTOR, truck and vintage car run fundraiser for jockey Aaron Fahey (24) was held at Martin’s Pub, Kildoon at the weekend (Sunday, 27 October), raising almost €90,000 on the day – including €5,565 from just the raffle. Funds are still coming but it hoped to break the €100,000 mark to add to a similar amount that has been raised on a GoFundme page.

The 24-year-old Aaron suffered a life-changing spinal cord injury in a farming accident in August.

“His future is unknown, as he faces a long journey to recovery, and he will need to make adaptions to his home in order for it to be accessible and give him the support that he needs to live an independent life,” said his sister Emma, the family spokesperson.

“He will also need to have his car modified to maintain his independence.

“This was such an important fundraiser, but also a fun family day out, with food and live music by Owen Fagan throughout the day," she said.

There was also an auction which included a nomination to any Coolmore National Hunt Stallion for the 2025 season, stable tours at the yards of Willie Mullins, Gordon Elliot and Henry De Bromhead, a tour and dinner for two at Dáil Éireann, and a private box for 10 people at Punchestown’s November meeting.

“We know that lots of you are interested in how Aaron is getting on,” she said.

“He is currently still in hospital recovering from surgery as he awaits a place in the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dun Laoghaire.

“He has gotten home a few times now for a few hours, and it has been lovely to be back in our own surroundings and to have him with us."

She especially wanted to thank the Beattie family, Ronan Stynes, Johnnie Breen, Ciaran Kelly, Seamus Deering, Mick Dillon, Michael Fleming, Paddy Reilly “and all in the community, and all the stewards”.

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