Twin Triumphs for the Moore Clan

Before Ryan Moore rode Auguste Rodin to victory at the Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf, his father Gary achieved a Grade 1 hurdle win at Wetherby. It was noted by ITV commentator Luke Harvey that Gary did not come from a privileged background, unlike some trainers. Ryan, like his father, could have started his career at smaller racecourses but instead rose to become one of the top National Hunt trainers.

While Botox Has was a successful horse for Gary at Wetherby, Auguste Rodin’s win in the Breeders’ Cup Turf was on a different level. It was a statement win, a global spectacle, and opened the door for a potential four-year-old career for Auguste Rodin. Ryan took calculated risks, navigating the inside rail and hoping the route wouldn’t close and his mount wouldn’t strike the front too soon. His instincts paid off, showcasing his talent as a jockey who can feel pace and position as if they were his own heartbeat.

Meanwhile, back in England, the people of Sussex recognized Ryan’s skill as he won the £1.7m prize for Aidan O’Brien. O’Brien, with his numerous Classic and Group 1 winners, requires a world-class jockey like Moore. Moore is known for his dependability, ensuring that he never gets in the way of the best horse in a race winning.

But Ryan Moore is more than just a jockey. He represents the entire Moore family, who are a remarkable and resilient presence in British sport. The Moores, rooted in National Hunt racing, have experienced their fair share of challenges but always manage to bounce back. Their story transcends the world of racing and captures the imagination of fans.

Watching Auguste Rodin’s win at Santa Anita it was obligatory to marvel
that a family of brilliant and hardy operators in the jump racing sphere
should also have bequeathed the world’s best jockey in Flat racing

Years ago, I interviewed Charlie Moore, Gary’s father, who shared stories of their early days in racing. Gary would often find himself at the bottom of a fence or hurdle, while Charlie would do whatever it took to win races, even using old tractor tires. When I visited Gary’s yard near Horsham, I saw firsthand his dedication to horse management. He had the look of a man who had been through tough times for his craft. In 2015, he ended up in intensive care after being kicked by a horse.

The Moores extend beyond Gary and Ryan. They are a true racing family, with members like Jamie, Josh, Hayley, Candy, and Jayne all making their mark in the sport. They have faced their fair share of adversity, with Josh’s serious fall at Haydock being a particularly difficult moment. But they don’t let these challenges break them. Their resilience and hard work embody the spirit of racing.

It is incredible to think that a family so prominent in jump racing has also produced the world’s best jockey in Flat racing. Ryan Moore’s modesty and focus set him apart, allowing him to consistently perform at the highest level. He is not a product of privilege or technology; he is a unique talent who represents the dedication and perseverance of his family. Auguste Rodin’s win in Santa Anita was a testament to their remarkable story, a story that spans over 5,000 miles from Wetherby.