Irion, trainer, killed in crash

Sue Irion, a longtime trainer based at Fairmount Park, was killed Friday morning when a truck she and her husband, Challis "Dale" Irion, were driving was struck by a train. Sue Irion was 45 and her husband 49.

The Irions had just left Fairmount and were driving to the nearby farm of trainer Dawn Martin when the accident occurred. Their truck was pushed down the tracks and the couple apparently died instantly.

The Irions are survived by three children: two grown sons and Heather Irion, 22, a jockey who often rode horses who ran in her mother's name.

A memorial service, during which the Irions ashes will be scattered, is scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday at Fairmount Park. Donations are being taken in support of the Irion children. Details concerning the fund are to be finalized Monday.