'I destroyed myself but then got my life back' - the Eclipse-winning jockey who is now helping the younger generation

Four-time Group 1-winning rider Warren O’Connor knows better than most the highs and lows of being a jockey.

O'Connor scaled heights in the sport most can only dream of, and fell to depths few could endure. Now the jockey coach is working to ensure the next generation of young riders don’t slip into the same dark places he once inhabited.

The rider retired in 2006 due to ill health, leaving behind a career spanning two decades and encompassing four Group 1 wins, all aboard the brilliant Michael Kauntze-trained Kooyonga. Among the triumphs was the 1992 Coral-Eclipse, a race which remains one of the standout memories. 

Towards the end of his time in the saddle, Wexford-born O'Connor struggled with addiction, as well as an eating disorder which was the result of a constant battle with maintaining an almost impossible weight.

“I had bulimia for 15 years,” O’Connor said. “The dieting was so hard and the weight I was doing was crazy. I was permanently sweating and out pounding the roads with the sweatsuit on.

“After retirement I had a lot of problems with drugs and alcohol. I destroyed myself, but then I got my life back when I qualified as a jockey coach in 2015 and set up my business. I still ride work for a few trainers around the Curragh as well, which keeps me fit and well.

“I love coaching now, and I'm happy to talk to the kids about my struggles. I had a great time as a jockey but at the same time it brought me to a very dark place, and with the blessing of god I came out the other side.”

O’Connor has some famous names on his roll of honour and is proud of the alumni who have gone on to success. 

“It's absolutely fantastic when I see the young people who I trained doing well. One who stands out is Robbie Dolan, who went on to win the Melbourne Cup. He was very skilled," he said.

“But it’s not all about riding. It's great just to be able to help the young riders with what's going on in their head. A positive mindset is so important in race riding.”

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