Tributes Pour In For Melbourne Cup-Winning Trainer Mike Moroney Who Passed Away At 66

The horse racing community is mourning the loss of Mike Moroney, a celebrated trainer who won the Melbourne Cup in 2000 with Brew. Moroney passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 66 after battling health issues for the past year. His contributions to the sport and his kindness towards others have left a lasting impact on many.

Mike Moroney numbers

Mike Moroney, renowned for training the 2000 Melbourne Cup winner Brew, passed away at 66.
He trained over 2000 winners, including 45 Group 1 victories.
Moroney was remembered for his kindness, work ethic, and passion for horse racing.

A Legacy in Racing

Mike Moroney’s journey in horse racing began in Matamata, New Zealand, where he founded Ballymore Stables in the early 1980s. His career took off when he moved to Australia in the 1990s, establishing a stable in Adelaide before moving to Melbourne.

Key Achievements:
- Won the Melbourne Cup in 2000 with Brew, who started from gate 24.
- Accumulated 45 Group 1 victories throughout his career.
- Inducted into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in May 2023.

Moroney’s first major win came with Imperial Angel in the 1985 New Zealand 1000 Guineas, setting the stage for a successful career that would see him train numerous champions.

Tributes From The Racing Community

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in from across the racing world, highlighting Moroney’s character and contributions.

Gai Waterhouse, a fellow trainer, expressed her sadness, stating, “A great man and trainer loved by all.”
John Hawkes, a racing identity, remembered him as a good bloke and wonderful trainer.
Paul Moroney, Mike’s brother, shared that he had spoken to Mike just a day before his passing, emphasizing their close relationship and shared passion for racing.

Remembering Mike Moroney

Moroney’s impact extended beyond his training achievements. He was known for his ability to connect with both horses and people, earning respect and admiration from staff, owners, and fellow trainers alike.

Personal Qualities:
- Kindness and willingness to share knowledge.
- Strong work ethic and ability to adapt plans as needed.
- A loving father and grandfather, cherished by his family.

His stable, Ballymore, was a significant part of Melbourne’s racing fabric, and his legacy will continue through the many lives he touched.

Mike Moroney’s passing marks a significant loss for the horse racing community in Australia and New Zealand. His achievements as a trainer and his character as a person will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. As the racing world mourns, his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the horses he trained and the people he inspired.