The National Ploughing Association (NPA) has said it was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic sudden death of young east Cork ploughman William (Billy) O’Connell.
He passed away following a car accident on Saturday.
The NPA described Billy as an aspiring young ploughman with huge potential who has died way too young.
Billy competed in the National Ploughing Championships in 2022 and again in 2024, when he was placed sixth in the under-21 ploughing class (senior grade).
The O’Connell family has a long tradition with the NPA, as Billy’s grandfather Andy managed the competitor assembly area for over 20 years, becoming a very well-known face to every competitor who ever ploughed in the nationals and only retired last year, the NPA said.
Proud
"When Billy started to plough competitively, Andy was hugely proud and particularly so when Billy qualified for the nationals. On behalf of the National Ploughing Association and our membership nationwide, we wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the O’Connell and Griffin families on the tragic death of Billy.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his dad Donal, mother Brigid, brother Ben, sister Emma and grandparents Andy and Joan.
May he rest in peace," the NPA said.
Billy, from Templemary, Buttevant, Co Cork, is survived by his parents Donal and Brigid, his brother Ben, sister Emma and wider family.
He will be laid to rest on Thursday.
SHARING OPTIONS