Irish trainer Vincent OBrien dies at 92 June 2nd, 2009
Vincent OBrien, one of horse racings great European trainers during a career that lasted more than a half century, died Monday. He was 92.
OBrien, an Irishman, died at his home in Straffan in County Kildare, his family said. He retired from training in 1994 and had been spending his winters in Australia.
He won 16 English and 27 Irish classics in addition to 25 victories at Royal Ascot and 23 at the Cheltenham Festival.
Breeders Cup president Greg Avioli lauded OBrien for his deep and profound impact on racing.
His career was extraordinary and he set a standard of international excellence that will be rarely equaled, he said.
OBrien began training in 1943 and masterminded the career of three-time Champion Hurdle winner Hattons Grace. He won straight Grand National steeplechases with Early Mist, Royal Tan and Quare Times.
OBrien later switched to thoroughbred racing and trained Nijinsky, Sir Ivor, Alleged, Sadlers Wells, Golden Fleece, The Minstrel, El Gran Senor, Ballymoss and Roberto.
OBrien was the original purchaser of Coolmore Stud, later recruiting John Magnier to run the farm. Owner-investor Robert Sangster then came in to seal Coolmores worldwide reputation.
Dads racing career speaks for itself and needs no elaboration, OBriens daughter, Sue Magnier, and husband John and their family said in a statement. There was nobody like him. Coolmore Stud and Ballydoyle are the results of his vision and testament to his success.
OBrien is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and five children, including David, who trained English Derby winner Secreto and lives in Australia, and Charles, who trains in Ireland.
The funeral is Thursday in Newbridge, County Kildare.