Robbie Laing’s life story is a rich tapestry of early fascination with horses, competitive sporting achievements, and a distinguished career in horse racing. His journey began in the early ’60s, inspired by his grandfather’s Clydesdales and a memorable visit to see Pharlap at the museum. By the mid-’60s, Robbie’s world revolved around horses, marked by visits to studs and watching racing legends warm up at Epsom. His passion for horse riding and racing was undeterred even by a significant injury in 1970, which led him to transition from riding to focusing more on training.

Robbie’s training career, which began in earnest in 1980, saw him nurturing winners from the start, reflecting his deep understanding and dedication to horse racing. Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, his stable produced a series of remarkable horses that won prestigious races, highlighting his skill in selecting and training top-performing horses. The move to Sutton Grange in the early 2000s marked a new chapter with significant wins, including the S.A.J.C. Derby and Oaks, as well as the V.R.C. Derby and Oaks. Robbie’s career is punctuated with notable successes, including training Alinghi, a horse that dominated the racing scene with victories in the Blue Diamond, Thousand Guineas, and Newmarket Stakes.

After taking a break from racing, Robbie returned with a vengeance, demonstrating his unwavering passion and knack for identifying and training star performers. His life story is not just about the victories and the champions he’s trained; it’s about resilience, passion for horse racing, and an enduring legacy that reflects his deep connection to the sport. Robbie Laing’s career is a testament to his profound impact on Australian horse racing, marked by remarkable achievements and a life dedicated to the love of horses.