Donnacha O’Brien to commence training from David Wachman's former yard
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Tue 5 Dec 2023
Donnacha O’Brien will commence his training career out of David Wachman’s former yard after announcing his retirement from the saddle.
The 21-year-old took to Twitter on Sunday evening to confirm he was hanging up his riding boots to join his father Aidan and brother Joseph in the training ranks.
However, he will have his own yard in County Tipperary – and is excited to see what the future holds.
“There’s a bit of paperwork to fill out, but hopefully I’ll have the licence in the next few weeks, or maybe in the new year might look more likely,” O’Brien told Sky Sports Racing.
“I’ve a small team of horses to look forward to and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into it.
“I’m currently at Longfield Stables, where David Wachman used to train and was very successful. He’s been very kind to let me set up there for now and we’ll see how things go. We’ll take things one day at a time and not make any big plans too soon.”
O’Brien’s five-year stint in the saddle may have been relatively short, but he enjoyed huge success.
As well as being crowned champion jockey in Ireland in each of the past two seasons, O’Brien rode a host of big-race winners – and bows out with 10 top-level wins to his name.
“I’ve been very lucky to have a lot of great days. Saxon Warrior in the 2000 Guineas, Latrobe in the Irish Derby and Magical on Champions Day recently are three that stand out, I suppose,” O’Brien added.
“I’m obviously very proud, but at the same time I wouldn’t be achieving these things if it wasn’t for the people around me – Dad and Joseph and all the various owners. Their support has allowed me to achieve these things.”
Asked which race he would most like to win as a trainer, O’Brien added: “Obviously you’d love to train the winner of the Epsom Derby and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
“There are so many big races that are so hard to win. If I can win any big race I’ll be delighted.”
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