Melbourne Cup-Winning Trainer Michael Moroney Passes Away at 66
Michael Moroney, the renowned Melbourne Cup-winning trainer, has died at the age of 66. The revered horseman, who had an indelible impact on the Australian and New Zealand racing sectors, died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday morning.
Moroney has recently had major health issues and had previously walked away from training for six months before returning in time for the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
. Just last Saturday, he was trackside at Caulfield to witness Coeur Volante win the Group 3 Mannerism Stakes.
Ballymore Stables, where Moroney was a co-trainer alongside Glen Thompson, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, remembering him as a man with a rare gift for both horses and people.
“One of the stalwarts of New Zealand and Victorian racing, Michael Moroney not only had a special knack with horses but also with people,” the statement read. “He was loved and respected by his staff, owners, his beloved partner Karen, and his family. People will remember him for being friendly, willing to share his time and skills, and his love of horse racing.
A Legendary Career
Over 2000 wins and 55 Group 1 victories were just a few of the amazing things Moroney did in his time. His biggest achievement came in 2000, when he trained Brew to victory in the Melbourne Cup, barely a year after opening his Australian stables. Other notable victories include the Victoria Derby (Monaco Consul, 2009), the Stradbroke Handicap (Tofane, 2021), and the Champions Sprint (Roch ‘N’ Horse, 2022)
His contributions to the sport were recognized when he was inducted into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in 2023.
Prominent owner Rupert Legh, a longtime friend and supporter, expressed his grief at the loss. “We’re all very, very numb because we had a friendship and partnership of more than 25 years that most trainers would love to have. We never had one argument in all that time. It’s going to leave such a massive hole, not just in racing but in our personal lives.”
Tributes from the Racing Community
Michael Moroney passing has left a significant void in the racing world, with many paying tribute to his character and contributions. Legendary jockey Damien Oliver, who partnered with Moroney for numerous wins, described him as a “gentle giant” and an outstanding trainer. “Mike’s forte was generally with stayers, but he could train any type of horse. He was brilliant at setting them up for big races,” Oliver said.
Champion trainer Chris Waller echoed these sentiments, calling Moroney a “beautiful man” who had a deep love for his horses and an exceptional understanding of what it took to win at the highest level. Hall of Fame trainer John Hawkes added, “He was just a good bloke and a wonderful trainer. It’s very sad.”
Prominent breeder John Messara, who was working with Michael Moroney on the preparation of Plymouth for the upcoming Australian Guineas, expressed his shock at the news. “I was just speaking to him on Wednesday. I couldn’t believe it when I heard.”
Racing Victoria chief executive Aaron Morrison also honoured Moroney’s legacy, stating, “His skill as a trainer is reflected in his amazing achievements, and his contribution to the careers of others is widely recognized.”
Australian Trainers’ Association president Robbie Griffiths summed up the sentiment shared across the racing world: “Not only was he a brilliant horse trainer, but he was also an incredible person willing to help others at any time. His influence on the racing world will be felt for years to come.”
As the racing group mourns the death of a beloved trainer, our prayers are with Michael Moroney family, friends, and colleagues. His status as one of the greatest horse racers in Australia and New Zealand will remain.
