Pat Smullen to have more chemotherapy and will miss charity race

Pat Smullen is to undergo more chemotherapy and will be unable to ride in his Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland on day two of Longines Irish Champions Weekend on Sunday September 15.

The multiple Group One-winning jockey announced his retirement in May, having undergone treatment for pancreatic cancer after being diagnosed in March of last year.

“Unfortunately I’ve had a setback with my health and have to undergo chemotherapy," Smullen said. "On advice from my medical team I am unable to ride in the Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland.

"I am bitterly disappointed not to be able to take part in this very special race – I was really looking forward to riding against such a brilliant group of champions, especially at the Curragh."

“I’ve spoken to Horse Racing Ireland who are helping me with the fundraising activity over Longines Irish Champions Weekend and I am more determined than ever that the fundraising activity goes ahead as pancreatic cancer needs more awareness now than ever before,” said the nine-time champion jockey.

The Pat Smullen Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland will take place at The Curragh on Sunday September 15 with nine champions - AP McCoy, Ruby Walsh, Charlie Swan, Johnny Murtagh, Richard Hughes, Paul Carberry, Joseph O’Brien, Kieren Fallon and Ted Durcan all making a return to the saddle.

There will also be a number of other fundraising activities happening over the weekend for Cancer Trials Ireland – the leading cancer research trials organisation.

Cancer Trials Ireland has two pancreatic trials ready to start - one is a trial on a new drug and another in radiotherapy, and all proceeds raised over Longines Irish Champions Weekend will ensure that they start as soon as possible.