The horse racing world is mourning the loss of legendary trainer Leo O'Brien, who has died at the age of 85 following a long battle with dementia.
A History-Making Career in Racing
O'Brien, who passed away on Thursday, carved his name into the sport's history books with a landmark achievement. In 1991, he prepared Fourstars Allstar to win the Group 1 Irish Two Thousand Guineas. This victory was monumental, making the colt the first American-trained horse ever to win a European Classic.
Born in Newcastle, County Dublin, O'Brien's life in racing began as a jump jockey in Ireland. He then moved to the United States in 1964, where he rode for 12 years until an injury ended his riding career. After a period back in Ireland running a jumps stable with his brother Michael, O'Brien returned to make New York his permanent home and training base.
New York Success and a Lasting Legacy
Over a training career spanning 38 years in New York, O'Brien saddled 568 winners, earning over £28 million in prize money before his retirement in 2022. His stable was home to other notable performers, including the popular Fourstardave, known as 'The Sultan of Saratoga' for winning at least one race at the famed track every year from 1987 to 1994.
His son, Keith O'Brien, paid tribute to his father's passion and character in a statement. "He came here from Ireland in 1964 to ride over jumps and fell in love with New York racing – he fell in love with New York, and, in time, he made it his home," he told nyra.com. "He was a quiet man; a dignified man and he always gave his best. He gave everything he had to the game."
The Dream of a Classic Victory
The audacious plan to win an Irish Classic with an American-trained horse was one O'Brien believed in fiercely. Keith recalled his father's conviction when Fourstars Allstar was just a two-year-old. "He told me he was going to take the horse over to Ireland for the 2,000 Guineas. I said, 'What are you talking about dad, are you crazy?'" Keith said. "But he said to me, 'I think this horse is special, he might be able to do it.'" That belief was vindicated when jockey Mike Smith guided the horse to victory at the Curragh.
Leo O'Brien's legacy continues within the racing community. His daughter, Leona, is married to celebrated US jockey John Velazquez. The trainer had been suffering from Lewy Body Dementia, a progressive brain disorder, prior to his death. He is survived by his family and remembered as a pioneering figure who bridged the Atlantic with a historic triumph.
