**ITV Interrupts Royal Ascot Broadcast to Report Death of Esteemed Trainer Kevin Prendergast**
ITV’s coverage of the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting was unexpectedly interrupted on Friday afternoon to share the sombre news of the passing of iconic horse racing trainer Kevin Prendergast. With the racing world’s attention focused on one of Britain’s most anticipated sporting events, presenter Ed Chamberlin paused the broadcast to inform viewers of the loss of one of racing’s revered figures. The announcement, made only minutes into the network’s live transmission of the fourth day of Royal Ascot, cast a shadow over the celebrated occasion, reminding viewers of the deep bonds that connect the racing community.
Kevin Prendergast, who passed away at the age of 92, leaves behind a formidable legacy in the world of horse racing. The Irishman’s career as a trainer spanned more than sixty years, during which he was credited with amassing a remarkable total of over 2,000 winners. Prendergast’s longevity and enduring success, marked by adaptability and an unyielding passion for the sport, earned him widespread respect on both sides of the Irish Sea.
Born into a family steeped in racing history, Kevin Prendergast was the son of the illustrious Paddy “Darkie” Prendergast, himself an acclaimed figure within the industry. Beginning his journey as an amateur jockey, Kevin soon transitioned into training, officially achieving his trainer’s licence in 1963. Over the following decades, his expertise and dedication would see him secure nine Classic wins—eight in Ireland and one in England.
Amongst his career highlights, Prendergast’s victory with Nebbiolo in the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket in 1977 stands out as his sole English Classic success. However, his dominance was even more keenly felt on Irish turf, reflecting both his local roots and his international stature. Prendergast continued to train winners well into his twilight years, with his last victory coming as recently as August of the previous year when Copie Conforme, ridden by jockey Chris Hayes, took the top spot at Bellewstown.
During the sombre announcement, Ed Chamberlin paid tribute to Prendergast’s remarkable contributions, reflecting on his achievements and lauding him as “a great trainer and an even better man.” Chamberlin’s words underscored the deep respect held for Prendergast within the sport, both for his professional skills and personal character.
Following Chamberlin’s statement, the broadcast shifted to former champion jockey Ruby Walsh for further insight. Walsh described Prendergast as a “trailblazer”, highlighting the unique position he occupied in following his legendary father’s footsteps and competing against titans of the sport such as Vincent O’Brien and Aidan O’Brien. Walsh went on to reminisce about Prendergast’s reputation for immaculate horses and his enduring role in shaping the modern era of horse racing, adding that he would be “sadly missed.”
The announcement was swiftly followed by an official statement from ITV Racing, expressing condolences to Prendergast’s family and friends. “Everyone at ITV Racing is sad to hear the passing of legendary trainer Kevin Prendergast aged 92. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time,” the message read.
Kevin Prendergast’s death marks the end of an era for the racing fraternity, both in Ireland and the United Kingdom. His achievements on the track, ranging from Classic wins to more than two thousand victories, have entrenched his status as a linchpin of the sport. In addition to his professional accolades, Prendergast was celebrated as a dedicated horseman and an influential presence whose warmth and wit made him widely admired.
This unexpected news during what is ordinarily a festive period in the racing calendar has led many within the industry to reflect upon the contributions of an individual whose career paralleled the evolution of modern flat racing. Tributes are expected to pour in from across the racing world over the coming days, as colleagues and competitors alike remember the life and influence of a true racing legend.