Vale Michael

One of the stalwarts of New Zealand and Victorian racing, Michael not only had a special knack with horses, but with people. He was loved and respected by his staff, his owners, his beloved partner Karen and his family. He will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to share his time and expertise and his passion for the sport of horse racing.

He was a wonderful father and very proud grandfather, a member of a tight-knit family and circle of friends. He was a much loved member of the racing community and an outstanding conditioner of horses with a host of Group 1 wins, premierships and well deserved awards.

Kicking off his career as a teenager with Dave O'Sullivan, Michael gained his licence for the 1981/82 season and quickly rose through the ranks. He made the move to Australia in 1999 with stables at Morphettville and immediately made his mark with Brew winning the following year's Melbourne Cup (Second Coming third).

Ballymore Stables has since that time produced a steady stream of quality gallopers with the latest star Coeur Volante recording a four length victory in last Saturday's Mannerism Stakes at Caulfield - a meeting which Michael attended, thrilled to see a mare owned by some of the stable's most loyal clients in such great form.

It is fitting that Ballymore's base has been Chicquita Lodge; it is part of the fabric of Melbourne racing history as is Michael with the stable's blue, black and red silks carried to victory in so many major races.

Michael's family thank everyone for their support during this difficult time. Ballymore Stables will continue with normal racing operations under the expert guidance of Glen Thompson and Anthony Feroce.