Ireland

Former Kilkenny hurler dies after bike struck by tractor

Former Kilkenny hurler Lester Ryan has died at the age of 61
Former Kilkenny hurler Lester Ryan has died at the age of 61 Former Kilkenny hurler Lester Ryan has died at the age of 61

A FORMER Kilkenny hurler has been remembered as a "great GAA man" following his sudden death in a road traffic accident.

Lester Ryan (61) was killed after his bicycle was involved in a collision with a tractor close to his home in Kilkenny at around 4pm on Saturday.

Ryan played for his county's senior side alongside his brother Harry in the 1980s and early 1990s, helping them to three Leinster titles, while he also won two minor All-Irelands with the Cats.

He was uncle of the 2014 Kilkenny All-Ireland winning captain and namesake, who retired from inter-county hurling two years ago.

Tributes were led by the GAA in his county and beyond. He was also a member of the Leinster Council, working as a coaching officer, while he was also a GAA referee and involved with the Leinster Poc Fada competition.

"All associated with Kilkenny GAA were deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Lester Ryan (Senior)", Kilkenny GAA said on Twitter.

"As a player and as a coach he left his mark on the GAA community both in Kilkenny and beyond."

Kilkenny Camogie commented: "Lester was a gentleman and he worked with a number of officers during the recent hosting of the National Fe?ile in Kilkenny.

"He was also a GAA referee having joined the ranks a number of years ago.

"A great GAA man he played with Clara alongside his brothers Johnny (RIP) and Harry and also played with Kilkenny winning two Minor All Ireland Medals and three Senior Leinster titles."