Amateur jump jockey Sam Lee dies aged 27 as racing world ‘devastated’ | Racing | Sport

The horse racing world is in mourning following the death of amateur jockey Sam Lee. Lee, 27, who secured four victories under Rules, achieved his most notable triumph when Phil Middleton’s Golan Fortune claimed a Listed handicap hurdle at Cheltenham in November 2019.

In a joint statement, the Injured Jockeys Fund and the Point-To-Point Authority said: “The point-to-point world is devastated to hear of the sudden death of Sam Lee. Our deepest sympathies go out to Sam’s family and his many friends. Sam was a hugely popular figure on the point-to-point scene and his tragic death is a huge shock for everyone.

“This weekend’s point-to-point race meetings will be holding a minute’s silence ahead of racing in memory of Sam.”

Lee enjoyed considerable success in point-to-point racing, riding for various trainers including Francesca Poste and Claire Hart. He helped Hart celebrate her first victory in 1,611 days when Samtara prevailed at Mollington in May 2025.

BHA chief executive Brant Dunshea wrote: “We are all shocked and upset to hear about the death of amateur jockey Sam Lee.

“Amateur jockeys are an integral part of our sport, its community and its rich history. Every jockey, professional or amateur, will be mourning today the death of a colleague and friend, as will everyone across British racing.

“The sport has in place services to provide care and support to those close to Sam. That support is available to everyone in our sport and anyone affected by this issue is encouraged to call them. Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”

Poste and her husband Charlie, a former National Hunt jockey, honoured Lee through the Facebook page of their breaking and pre-training operation Station Yard Racing.

The message read: “Sam you had become a huge part of our team over the last 6 months. You were a larger than life character; you made the dull mornings seem bright.

“Always full of energy, immaculately turned out, and impeccably well mannered. You loved the horses, you were kind and generous, and most of all you wanted our team to do well. It certainly is going be a very sad place without you.”