Thomas Francis McGovern

THE sudden and unexpected death occurred on Friday, September 21, at University College Hospital, Galway, of Thomas Francis (Frank) McGovern, Kilmeena, formerly of Brighton and originally from Rossanrubble, Newport.

Son of the late Tom and Margaret McGovern, Frank emigrated to England in his early 20s, having spent many years working the land for people here at home as he ploughed and mowed, with horse-drawn machinery.

In England, Frank was one of many hard-working Irishmen who became a very successful businessman in the construction industry, allowing him the money to gamble, by investing in a stud farm, for training and racing horses, a dream he had for many years. Among the many highlights of his training, and one for which he is best remembered, is his exploits with Olympian, whom he saddled to win four races and finish fifth to Oh So Risky in the 1991 Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham. Frank recorded 14 wins in his best season of 2000-2001 and on the eve of Misbehaviour becoming his final runner at Brighton in April 2005, Frank announced that he would be returning back home to his native Mayo, allowing him time to relax and time to spend and enjoy with his family.

However, Frank did not retire fully as he had been running and overseeing a stable yard near Westport in preparation for Chris Murray a jockey who rode 17 winners for Frank, taking over the licence.

One of Frank’s great ambitions was to return and retire where he was reared. Unfortunately time did not allow him complete his ambition. He was due to move into his new home now nearing completion in Rossanrubble, when illness took over.

Reposing at the residence of his sister Margaret Ginnelly, Frank’s remains were removed to the parish church and Mass for the repose of his soul was concelebrated. Canon Eamon Concannon, PP, Newport, was the main celebrant and was assisted by Fr James Walsh, PP, Kilmeena. The Readings at Mass were read by his sister, Patricia McGovern-King, and grand-daughter Penny McGovern. The gifts were brought to the altar by his sons Michael and Mark and grandson Neill, and the Prayers of the Faithful were read by members of his family.  At the end of Mass, jockey Chris Murray addressed the congregation, telling of the great times he had with Frank and the many successes he had for him. Win or lose, Frank always brought them back to his home after the race.

During Mass, Newport Church Choir sang, accompanied by organist Pat Gibbons, and Frank Chambers sang solo, as Frank’s remains were being removed from the church on his journey to Kilbride Cemetery where he was laid to rest.

Frank is survived by his wife Monica, sons Mark and Michael, grandchildren Penny and Neill, brothers, Johnny and Mick McGovern, sisters, Mary McGovern, Patricia McGovern-King, and Margaret Ginnelly, daughter-in-law Una, and many relatives and friends.