Jonjo O'Neill, Irish jockey and trainer

John Joseph "Jonjo" O'Neill, born on 13 April 1952, is a revered figure in the world of National Hunt racing, renowned for his significant contributions both as a jockey and, subsequently, as a highly successful racehorse trainer. A proud native of Castletownroche in County Cork, Ireland, O'Neill's journey has seen him transition from the saddle to overseeing a prominent training establishment at Jackdaws Castle in England.

A Distinguished Career in the Saddle

As a jockey, Jonjo O'Neill carved out an illustrious career, marked by remarkable skill and tenacity. He twice earned the coveted title of British Champion Jockey during the 1977-78 and 1979-80 seasons, a testament to his consistent performance and dominance in the sport. Among his many memorable victories, one stands out for its historical significance: his triumph aboard the legendary mare, Dawn Run, in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Dawn Run remains the only horse in history to achieve the extraordinary feat of winning both the Champion Hurdle and the Gold Cup at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival, a "double" that underscores the mare's versatility and O'Neill's masterful horsemanship. By the time he retired from racing, O'Neill had accumulated an impressive tally of 900 wins as a jockey.

While his riding career was filled with successes, the Grand National at Aintree famously eluded him; despite seven attempts, he never managed to complete the demanding course himself.

Transition to Training and Continued Success

Beyond his prowess in the saddle, Jonjo O'Neill successfully transitioned into a highly respected National Hunt trainer, carrying his deep understanding of horses and racing strategy into a new role. Operating from his state-of-the-art training establishment at Jackdaws Castle, O'Neill has continued to achieve top-tier success.

His training career highlights include a notable victory at the 2009 Cheltenham Festival, where his horse Wichita Lineman clinched the William Hill Trophy (now known as the Ultima Handicap Chase). However, one of his most celebrated achievements as a trainer came on 10 April 2010, when he saddled Don't Push It to win the iconic Grand National. This victory held particular resonance, not only for O'Neill himself, given his previous unfulfilled attempts as a jockey, but also for the champion jockey Tony McCoy, who, after fourteen previous attempts with a best finish of third place, finally secured his maiden Grand National win. Don't Push It, under McCoy's expert guidance, delivered a thrilling performance, overtaking Black Apalachi at the final fence and pulling clear on the run-in to win by a comfortable five lengths. O'Neill's training success at the highest level continued when, in March 2012, his charge Synchronised gallantly won the Cheltenham Gold Cup, further cementing his reputation as one of the sport's leading trainers.

A Family Legacy

The O'Neill name continues to be synonymous with National Hunt racing, as Jonjo's son, also named Jonjo, has followed in his father's footsteps and is himself a professional National Hunt jockey, carrying on the family's deep-rooted connection to the sport.

FAQs About Jonjo O'Neill

Who is Jonjo O'Neill?
Jonjo O'Neill is a prominent Irish National Hunt racehorse trainer and a celebrated former jockey. Born in County Cork, Ireland, he is widely respected for his achievements in both capacities within the sport.
What were Jonjo O'Neill's major achievements as a jockey?
As a jockey, O'Neill was twice crowned British Champion Jockey (1977-78 & 1979-80) and famously rode Dawn Run to victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He accumulated 900 wins during his riding career.
What is significant about Dawn Run's achievement with Jonjo O'Neill?
Dawn Run, ridden by Jonjo O'Neill, made history by becoming the only horse ever to win both the Champion Hurdle and the Cheltenham Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival, a remarkable and unique double.
What are Jonjo O'Neill's most notable successes as a trainer?
As a trainer, Jonjo O'Neill's key successes include winning the William Hill Trophy with Wichita Lineman in 2009, the Grand National with Don't Push It in 2010, and the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Synchronised in 2012.
Where is Jonjo O'Neill's training establishment located?
Jonjo O'Neill operates his training establishment, Jackdaws Castle, in England.
Does Jonjo O'Neill have any family involved in racing?
Yes, Jonjo O'Neill's son, also named Jonjo, is a National Hunt jockey, continuing the family's legacy in professional horse racing.