Aidan O’Brien Inducted into Qipco British Champions Series Hall of Fame by Racing Post

A 54-year-old veteran horse trainer, O’Brien, will be presenting the hot favorite City Of Troy in the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket on Saturday. He will also be recognized with a medal in honor of his induction. O’Brien expressed his gratitude, stating that it is a privilege for him and something unexpected, having worked with remarkable people and horses.

O’Brien began his career as a dominant force in the Flat since 1993, but initially gained recognition in jumps racing. He was champion jumps trainer in Ireland five times and achieved success with notable wins, including three Champion Hurdles with Istabraq. On the Flat, O’Brien has been the Irish trainers’ championship winner every year since 1999 and has claimed the British title six times.

His accomplishments also include a record-breaking nine Derby wins, with the first occurring in 2001 with Galileo. In 2017, he set a world record by training 28 Group or Grade 1 winners in a calendar year, surpassing the previous record of 25 set by US trainer Bobby Frankel. Reflecting on his experiences, O’Brien recounted his exceptional memories, particularly the achievement of winning a record number of Derbys.

He praised Galileo for his exceptional qualities and genuine spirit on the racetrack, noting that the horse consistently gave his all regardless of his form.