‘A great man & trainer loved by all’: Tributes pour in for racing legend (66)
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Few figures leave an indelible mark on their industry, earning both respect and admiration from peers and fans alike.
When news broke of a significant loss in the sporting world, it sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes.
As those closest to him reflect on his remarkable career and lasting impact, his legacy stands as a testament to dedication, talent, and the deep bonds forged along the way.
Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Michael Moroney passed away in his sleep on 27 February at the age of 66.
He had been dealing with health issues for the past year.
Ballymore Stables confirmed his passing in a statement, describing him as ‘one of the stalwarts of New Zealand and Victorian racing’.
‘Michael not only had a special knack with horses, but with people. He was loved and respected by his staff, his owners, his beloved partner Karen and his family,’ the statement read.
‘He will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to share his time, expertise and his passion for the sport of horse racing.’
Moroney’s career spanned decades, beginning when he obtained his training licence for the 1981/82 season in New Zealand.
He moved to Australia in 1999 and made history the following year when Brew won the 2000 Melbourne Cup, jumping from barrier No.24 while carrying saddle No.24.
Alongside co-trainer Glen Thompson, Moroney achieved over 2,000 wins, including 45 victories at Group 1 level.
His contributions to racing earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in 2023.
He also received the prestigious Fred Hoysted Award for training excellence in Victoria.
Tributes poured in from across the racing community, with his brother Paul sharing an emotional message.
‘Rest in peace brother. You left us too soon,’ he wrote.
‘I will never forget the bond and times we had as brothers both in life and our chosen passion and professions. Love you forever.’
His sister Sue also expressed her grief, recalling the joy he brought to their family.
‘You have given our family immeasurable joy over the years—not only with your stupid humour but your love of family events and regular trips back home,’ she said.
‘I will be forever grateful that we got to spend a precious week with you and Karen in Melbourne last month.’
Legendary trainer Gai Waterhouse offered condolences, calling Moroney ‘a great man & trainer loved by all’.
Trainer John Hawkes also shared his sorrow, saying: ‘I had a lot to do with him at Flemington, he was just a good bloke and a wonderful trainer. It’s very sad.’
Prominent breeder John Messara was stunned by the news.
‘I’m shattered. I’ve always found Mike to be a nice bloke, very easy to deal with, and he achieved so much as a trainer. I was only talking to him yesterday (Wednesday) as we have Plymouth running on Saturday. I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news,’ he said.
Racing Victoria acknowledged his passing with a heartfelt statement, highlighting his immense contributions to the sport.
‘Among his many industry achievements, Moroney was inducted into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in 2023, claimed two New Zealand training premierships with 16 top-five finishes, and won the prestigious Fred Hoysted Award for training excellence in Victoria in just his third full season in the state,’ the statement read.
RV chief Aaron Morrison extended his sympathies to Moroney’s loved ones, particularly his partner Karen and co-trainer Glen Thompson.
He also acknowledged the stable staff at Flemington who had supported Moroney during his health struggles.
‘Mike’s contribution to racing was immense, both here in Victoria and in his homeland of New Zealand,’ Morrison said.
‘His skill as a trainer is reflected in his amazing achievements and his contribution to the career of others is lauded.’
‘Mike was popular and respected among his training colleagues and those who had the pleasure of enjoying his company, be at trackwork or celebrating a feature win, always speak glowingly of the experience and his character.’
Australian Trainers Association president Robbie Griffiths described Moroney as ‘an incredible person who was willing to help others out at any time’.
‘Mike made a lasting impact in the horse racing community and will be sadly missed to racing. Our thoughts go out to his family and staff,’ he said.
Watch this tribute for Michael below.
Moroney’s legacy in the racing world is undeniable, with his impact felt across generations of trainers, jockeys, and fans.
May he rest in peace.
When news broke of a significant loss in the sporting world, it sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes.
As those closest to him reflect on his remarkable career and lasting impact, his legacy stands as a testament to dedication, talent, and the deep bonds forged along the way.
Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Michael Moroney passed away in his sleep on 27 February at the age of 66.
He had been dealing with health issues for the past year.
Ballymore Stables confirmed his passing in a statement, describing him as ‘one of the stalwarts of New Zealand and Victorian racing’.
‘Michael not only had a special knack with horses, but with people. He was loved and respected by his staff, his owners, his beloved partner Karen and his family,’ the statement read.
‘He will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to share his time, expertise and his passion for the sport of horse racing.’
Moroney’s career spanned decades, beginning when he obtained his training licence for the 1981/82 season in New Zealand.
He moved to Australia in 1999 and made history the following year when Brew won the 2000 Melbourne Cup, jumping from barrier No.24 while carrying saddle No.24.
Alongside co-trainer Glen Thompson, Moroney achieved over 2,000 wins, including 45 victories at Group 1 level.
His contributions to racing earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in 2023.
He also received the prestigious Fred Hoysted Award for training excellence in Victoria.
Tributes poured in from across the racing community, with his brother Paul sharing an emotional message.
‘Rest in peace brother. You left us too soon,’ he wrote.
‘I will never forget the bond and times we had as brothers both in life and our chosen passion and professions. Love you forever.’
His sister Sue also expressed her grief, recalling the joy he brought to their family.
‘You have given our family immeasurable joy over the years—not only with your stupid humour but your love of family events and regular trips back home,’ she said.
‘I will be forever grateful that we got to spend a precious week with you and Karen in Melbourne last month.’
Legendary trainer Gai Waterhouse offered condolences, calling Moroney ‘a great man & trainer loved by all’.
Trainer John Hawkes also shared his sorrow, saying: ‘I had a lot to do with him at Flemington, he was just a good bloke and a wonderful trainer. It’s very sad.’
Prominent breeder John Messara was stunned by the news.
‘I’m shattered. I’ve always found Mike to be a nice bloke, very easy to deal with, and he achieved so much as a trainer. I was only talking to him yesterday (Wednesday) as we have Plymouth running on Saturday. I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news,’ he said.
Racing Victoria acknowledged his passing with a heartfelt statement, highlighting his immense contributions to the sport.
‘Among his many industry achievements, Moroney was inducted into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in 2023, claimed two New Zealand training premierships with 16 top-five finishes, and won the prestigious Fred Hoysted Award for training excellence in Victoria in just his third full season in the state,’ the statement read.
RV chief Aaron Morrison extended his sympathies to Moroney’s loved ones, particularly his partner Karen and co-trainer Glen Thompson.
He also acknowledged the stable staff at Flemington who had supported Moroney during his health struggles.
‘Mike’s contribution to racing was immense, both here in Victoria and in his homeland of New Zealand,’ Morrison said.
‘His skill as a trainer is reflected in his amazing achievements and his contribution to the career of others is lauded.’
‘Mike was popular and respected among his training colleagues and those who had the pleasure of enjoying his company, be at trackwork or celebrating a feature win, always speak glowingly of the experience and his character.’
Australian Trainers Association president Robbie Griffiths described Moroney as ‘an incredible person who was willing to help others out at any time’.
‘Mike made a lasting impact in the horse racing community and will be sadly missed to racing. Our thoughts go out to his family and staff,’ he said.
Watch this tribute for Michael below.
Moroney’s legacy in the racing world is undeniable, with his impact felt across generations of trainers, jockeys, and fans.
May he rest in peace.
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