Saturday is set to be a very special day in Kilmacthomas as Grand National winner ‘Nick Rockett’ will be paraded through the village.

As reported by WLR last month following the Aintree Grand National, the world famous horse has very special links to Mid County Waterford.

‘Nick Rockett’ was previously owned by Roddy O’Byrne and began an illustrious racing career at The Lodge Stud, Kilmacthomas.

Roddy chose the name ‘Nick Rockett’ in honour of his friend of the same name from the area.

The Rockett surname is synonymous with the village as the popular establishment ‘Rockett’s Bar’ is run by Nick’s proud nephew Eddie.

Pictured are Eddie Rockett, Roddy O’Byrne and his nephew Timmy.

Cementing the links to the local area, ‘Nick Rockett’ was bred with the Cotters in Stradbally, foaled with the Lenihans in Fews, and won at the Curraghmore point to point.

Now, preparations are underway in Kilmacthomas to welcome the famous horse this Saturday May 10th and to celebrate these strong links.

People from Kilmacthomas and across Waterford and beyond are invited to line Main Street and witness the special parade which will begin at approximately 3pm after ‘Nick Rockett’ arrives.

Eddie Rockett outside Rockett’s Bar, Kilmacthomas

‘Nick Rockett’ was previously paraded through Leighlinbridge, County Carlow, the home area of trainer Willie Mullins, after returning from Aintree.

You can hear more from Roddy and Timmy O’Byrne and Nick Rockett’s nephew Eddie from Rockett’s Bar, Kilmacthomas on WLR this week ahead of Saturday’s celebration.

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