Rob O’Connor II, who has been associated with Kentucky track for nearly 39 years, has decided to retire from his coaching career, marking the end of an era of dedication and passion for the sport.
“There are a lot of people in this game who can’t retire on their own, and I’m lucky to say I can do that,” O’Connor said. “This sport is very special to me and I am very proud to have built my life around it. I have had a wonderful career and worked with many dedicated employers throughout my time.” coach. I can’t say enough how lucky I am.”
O’Connor earned her trainer’s license in the fall of 1985 and recorded her first win on January 7, 1986, with the Lady Rolls at Latonia Raceway in Northern Kentucky. Over the course of his career, O’Connor amassed 477 wins from 3,696 starts and his horses earned more than $7.4 million. O’Connor called Churchill Downs home for most of his career, raising his family in Louisville.
In early May, O’Connor defeated his last starter, Pat’schromecompass, who finished seventh at Tampa Bay Downs. Since then, O’Connor has turned over much of his stable to longtime friend and trainer Greg Foley. On Thursday night at Churchill Downs, O’Connor was on hand when his former trainee, Cox Canyon, made his first start against Foley and beat 1-2 favorite Tartufo to win the $10,000 prize. la.
“I’m so grateful and excited for everyone involved, especially his owner Bruce McCrea,” O’Connor said after the race. “Having my family here with me, with the entire Foley family here, that’s what life is about.”
For many years, O’Connor provided private training to local businessman James Bohanon. One of the top horses the duo has is American Dynasty, a multiple stakes winner at Ellis Park and Turfway Park.
“I coached Mr. Bohanon for nearly two decades,” O’Connor said. “It’s really a blessing because when I got the horse for him, that’s when my kids were growing up. I got to be with my family, which is very important.”
In retirement, O’Connor said he looks forward to spending more time with his family, which includes two young grandchildren, Robert O’Connor IV and Parker O’Connor.
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