“I Get Anxious”: As Holidays Near, Renowned Horse Racing Trainer Aidan O’Brien Reveals the Cause of His Stress

Aidan O’Brien has solidified his status as the premier trainer in the British Isles and arguably on a global scale over the past few seasons. His remarkable feat in 2017 marked a turning point when he shattered the record for the highest number of G1 victories in horse racing. His tally of 27 triumphs surpassed the longstanding record of 25, held since 2003 by Bobby Frankel. More recently, O’Brien has been acclaimed for his success as the best Hong Kong race winner.

O’Brien, with entries in all four groups one event on Sunday, pins his strongest confidence on his contenders in the Hong Kong Cup and Hong Kong Vase. However, amidst his anticipation, O’Brien revealed a gripping secret, shedding light on an undisclosed stress factor.

A horse racing maestro’s unconventional approach

World Horse Racing recently posted a video featuring Aiden O’Brien where he was questioned about his approach to holiday planning, labelled ‘Holidays, By Aiden O’Brien.’ His response was unexpectedly unique and divergent from the norm. Aiden revealed that he feels anxious and stressed when away for extended periods, finding solace and comfort in working with horses and people. As he said, “I get stressed if you leave me in there like I find holidays stressful but that’s just the way….I go away for a week or any more than that like I get anxious”.

He further disclosed the fact that he has an odd liking, for which he apologized. He also revealed that in most of the evenings, particularly during busy periods, he watches sports on television. He emphasized the importance of sleep and attributed its absence to fatigue and stress, pointing out the part it plays towards healthy status as an everyday necessity response.

Record-breaking Ascot triumph

On the 30th of May, Aiden O’Brien achieved historic success at Royal Ascot by claiming victory in the Group 1 St James’s Palace Stakes, thus becoming the most accomplished trainer in the event’s history. Surpassing Sir Michael Stoute’s record, O’Brien secured this milestone after securing two wins during the royal meeting.

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His triumph commenced with River Tiber’s victory in the Coventry Stakes, drawing him level with Stoute. Merely 75 minutes later, Paddington’s triumph in the mile race not only marked O’Brien’s 83rd victory but also solidified him as the dominant figure in Royal Ascot history.

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