Lance O’Sullivan
A Racing Legend Enshrined
When discussing the pantheon of great jockeys in our nation’s racing history, few names stand as tall as Lance O’Sullivan. His induction into the Racing Hall of Fame in 2006 as part of the inaugural class was a fitting tribute to a career marked by unparalleled success, skill, and longevity.
Born on 28 August 1963, Lance was destined for greatness in the racing world. As the son of Hall of Fame trainer Dave O’Sullivan, founder of Wexford Stables, Lance grew up immersed in the world of thoroughbreds.
O’Sullivan’s riding career began with a bang on 12 June 1980 when he piloted Her Highness to victory in the Arapuni Handicap at Te Awamutu. This win, aboard a horse trained by his father, was a fitting start to what would become a legendary career in the saddle.
Over the next two decades, O’Sullivan would dominate the jockey ranks, amassing an incredible 2358 winners on home soil and a further 121 victories overseas. His talent took him to racecourses in Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Singapore, and even Turkey.
O’Sullivan’s crowning achievement as a jockey came in the form of 12 Jockey’s Premierships, breaking Bill Broughton’s long-standing record of 11. This feat alone would be enough to secure his place in racing history, but it was merely one facet of his illustrious career.
Among his 62 Group 1 victories, perhaps the most memorable was his triumph aboard Horlicks in the 1989 Japan Cup, where they broke the world record for 2400m. While the Melbourne Cup eluded him, O’Sullivan came agonisingly close in 1985 with Koiro Corrie May, and he found redemption in 1991 when he guided Surfers Paradise to victory in the Cox Plate.
O’Sullivan’s skill wasn’t limited to flat racing. He was equally adept in jumps races, showcasing his versatility and comprehensive understanding of horsemanship. This all-round ability set him apart from many of his contemporaries and contributed to his enduring success.
In 2003, O’Sullivan’s contributions to racing were recognised at the highest level when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Merit for his services to thoroughbred racing. This honour reflected not just his success in the saddle, but also the esteem in which he was held within the racing community.
Following his retirement from riding in 2003, O’Sullivan transitioned into training, taking over the reins at Wexford Stables. This move came after his brother Paul, who had been training in partnership with their father, accepted a contract with the Hong Kong Jockey Club in 2004.
O’Sullivan’s success as a trainer came swiftly. In 2006, just two years into his training career, he secured his first Group 1 win as a trainer with Pentane in the Auckland Cup. This victory was a clear indication that O’Sullivan’s expertise extended beyond the saddle.
In the years that followed, O’Sullivan formed a formidable partnership with Andrew Scott. Together, they have continued to build on Wexford Stables’ legacy, producing a string of top-class performers. Their notable successes include Rocket Spade’s victory in the 2021 Derby, Dark Destroyer’s triumph in the 2022 Tarzino Trophy, and Molly Bloom’s win in the 2023 1000 Guineas.
O’Sullivan’s induction into the Racing Hall of Fame in 2006 was a recognition of his extraordinary achievements as a jockey. However, his continued success as a trainer has only served to enhance his legacy. In 2016, he received further recognition with his induction into the Sports Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of our greatest sporting figures.
Lance O’Sullivan’s profile in the Racing Hall of Fame tells the story of a true champion. From his early days learning the ropes from his father to his dominance in the saddle and his successful transition to training, O’Sullivan’s career embodies the very best of our racing tradition.
His legacy extends beyond his personal achievements. O’Sullivan has been a mentor and inspiration to many in the racing industry, sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation of jockeys and trainers. His commitment to excellence and his deep understanding of thoroughbreds continue to shape the future of racing in our country.
In conclusion, Lance O’Sullivan’s place in the Racing Hall of Fame is a testament to a career marked by extraordinary achievement, unwavering dedication, and a profound impact on the sport of thoroughbred racing. His story is not just one of personal success, but of a lifelong commitment to the advancement and betterment of racing in our nation. As we look to the future of the sport, the legacy of Lance O’Sullivan will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence for generations to come.