THE racing and bloodstock industries were yesterday mourning the loss of Mark O'Hanlon, who has died aged 52 following a short illness.

O'Hanlon was best known through his role at Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, specialising in the Italian, Middle East, Singapore, Russian and Moroccan markets.

Former ITM chief executive Michael O'Hagan paid tribute to O'Hanlon, describing him as a "gentle giant".

"Mark originally joined as our rep in Italy as he lived out there, but the more I got to know him the more I realised he was wasted looking after just one country," said O'Hagan.

"He was always just a great right-hand man to have on your team, a top man to have. He did what had to be done and he did it in his own quiet way, he was a gentle giant.

"Before joining us he worked for Goresbridge. After I saw him in action I asked [director] Martin Donohoe if we could poach him.

"He got on well with everyone he dealt with, and when you walked into the sales, you looked for Mark - he was the obvious go-to guy."

Industry members from both sides of the Irish sea paid tribute to O'Hanlon on Twitter yesterday.

Kevin Buckley, Coolmore's UK representative, wrote: "So very sorry to hear the passing of Mark O'Hanlon. A top guy who'll be missed by many of us. May he rest in peace."

HRI chief executive Brian Kavanagh posted: "Mark O'Hanlon passed away today. RIP. A dear friend, colleague and ambassador for Ireland and the Irish horse."

O'Hanlon is survived by his wife Daniela.

Funeral mass will take place on Tuesday from noon at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow. Burial afterwards in St Mary's Cemetery. - Racing Post