Longtime Kentucky-Based Trainer Rob O'Connor II Retires Following 39-Year Career

Jun 14, 2024 Kevin Kerstein

Rob O’Connor II, a fixture on the Kentucky racing circuit for nearly 39 years, has decided to retire from his career as a trainer, marking the end of an era filled with dedication and passion for the sport.

“There are so many people in this game that are unable to retire on their own terms and I’m very fortunate to say I’m able to do so,” O’Connor said. “This sport is so special to me and I’m so proud to have built a life in it. I’ve had a great career and was around so many dedicated owners throughout my time as a trainer. I just can’t say enough how lucky I was.”

O’Connor took out his trainer’s license in the fall of 1985 and recorded his first victory on Jan. 7, 1986 with Lady Rolls at Latonia Race Track in Northern Kentucky. Throughout his career, O’Connor tallied 477 wins from 3,696 starters with his horses earning more than $7.4 million. O’Connor called Churchill Downs home for much of his career, raising his family in Louisville.

In early May, O’Connor saddled his final starter, Pat’schromecompass, who finished seventh at Tampa Bay Downs. Since then, O’Connor has transferred the majority of his stable to longtime friend and fellow trainer Greg Foley. On Thursday evening at Churchill Downs, O’Connor was in attendance when his former trainee, Cox Canyon, made his first start with Foley and upset 1-2 favorite Tartufo to win a $10,000 claiming event.

“I’m just so thankful and thrilled for everyone involved especially his owner Bruce McCrea,” O’Connor said after the race. “Having my family here with me, along with the entire Foley family here, that’s what life is all about.”

For the many years, O’Connor trained privately for local businessman James Bohanon. One of the top horses the duo had was American Dynasty, a multiple stakes winner at Ellis Park and Turfway Park.

“I trained for Mr. Bohanon for nearly two decades,” O’Connor said. “It was a true blessing because when I had horses for him, it was when my kids were growing up. I was able to be around my family which was very important.”

In his retirement, O’Connor said he looks forward to spending more time with his family including his two young grandchildren Robert O’Connor IV and Parker O’Connor.