Lindsay Park to take on late trainer Michael Moroney’s Ballymore operation

Lindsay Park brothers Ben, Will and JD Hayes were “genuinely honoured” to be offered the opportunity to take over Michael Moroney’s Ballymore Stables.

Lindsay Park has been humbled by an opportunity to continue the late Michael Moroney’s Ballymore Stables legacy out of iconic Chiquita Lodge at Flemington.

Moroney, the 2000 Melbourne Cup-winning trainer, died in February, aged 66, after a short battle with cancer.

Moroney entrusted partner Karen Glindermann to make the necessary decisions about the future of Ballymore and “after much thought and careful consideration”, Lindsay Park was asked to take over.

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Lindsay Park trainers Ben, JD and Will Hayes were touched by the Ballymore decision.

“We are touched and really genuinely honoured to be picking up where Mike left off with his horses and the Ballymore boxes at Flemington,” Ben Hayes said.

“To follow in the footsteps of a legend like Mike Moroney is humbling and something we will do our best to live up to.

“We will also make every effort to offer every opportunity of ongoing success to the horses and their owners coming to us from his stable.”

Long-time Ballymore racing manager Anthony Feroce has accepted a position with Lindsay Park.

Michael Moroney lost his short battle with illness in February. Picture: Michael Klein

Co-trainer Glen Thompson is in discussion with Lindsay Park about a future role.

Further talks will be held with all Ballymore staff about possible opportunities at Lindsay Park.

The handover of Ballymore horses, boxes and yards at Flemington is scheduled to start from May 1.

It is understood horses will race under Thompson’s name until the official changeover, including Coeur Volante in the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m) in Sydney on Saturday.

Glindermann, in a letter to owners, said her decision “best reflects what Mike would have wanted”.

“In what I feel is in the best interests of our owners, our horses and our staff, I have asked Lindsay Park to take over our Flemington operation going forward,” the letter read.

“Mike always held Ben, Will & JD Hayes in the very highest regards and I know their professionalism and enthusiastic approach will make the transition as seamless for you as possible.

“I really believe this is a positive move for you (owners) and will give you and your horses the best chance of further success on the racetrack.

“For me personally, this is time to move on.”

Will, Ben and JD Hayes were “humbled” when asked to take over Michael Moroney’s Ballymore Stables. Picture: Racing Photos via Getty Images

Glindermann thanked the owners for their “loyal” support of Moroney and Ballymore.

“It is the end of an era in life and racing, but I am hopeful that Mike’s legacy will live on,” Glindermann said.

“I know the Ballymore name will forever hold an important place in the hearts of the people who make up our industry.

“I also thank you for your understanding of my decision and wish you every possible success for the future.”

Originally published as Lindsay Park to take on late trainer Michael Moroney’s Ballymore operation