Phonsie O'Brien, the youngest and last-living brother of famed trainer Vincent O'Brien, died peacefully at his home in Tipperary, Ireland on Tuesday aged 86, according to published reports. Phonsie O'Brien was the youngest of seven children, and Vincent O'Brien the eldest.
Phonsie O'Brien held a training license himself in addition to assisting in the success of his legendary brother, and he will be remembered as the only trainer to send out four consecutive winners of the Galway Plate. O'Brien also enjoyed plenty of success as an amateur rider and a breeder. O'Brien took over the Ballydoyle license for a period in 1960 when Vincent O'Brien was controversially suspended, and trained Chamour to victory in the Irish Derby.
A funeral mass will be held July 8 at St Thomas Apostle Church, Rosegreen at 12:00 p.m.
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