Willie McCreery’s journey in horse training began long before his Leinster Championship win. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in racing, he was the nephew of Pat Taaffe and cousin of Tom Taaffe. His father, Peter McCreery, was a renowned National Hunt trainer, and Willie was immersed in the world of horses from a young age. After his father passed away when Willie was 21, his brother Peter took over the training licence, achieving success with Son Of War in the 1994 Irish Grand National.
Willie’s path led him to the Irish National Stud course, where he made valuable connections and gained crucial experience. He worked with horses in Australia, Japan, and America, eventually becoming assistant trainer to Charles O’Brien for eight years. In 2009, McCreery set up his own training operation, starting with eight horses, all of which he owned. His focus on handicappers kept his name in the papers and gradually built his reputation.
A Journey from Football Fields to Race Tracks
In 1998, Willie McCreery was dedicated to both his job and his passion. Working for trainer Charles O’Brien while training with Kildare, he balanced a demanding schedule, working seven days a week and training every night. On Sundays, when there was a match, he got the evening off. Even on nights when the county team wasn’t training, the five Clane lads on the county panel would gather to practice, focusing on fitness and shooting.
Despite his modesty, McCreery's performance in the 1998 Leinster Final against Meath was outstanding, contributing two points to the 1-12 total from midfield. His relentless self-training paid off, as he aimed to be the fittest player on the field, knowing he couldn’t match others in football ability but could outwork them in stamina. Managed by Mick O’Dwyer, Kildare won their first Leinster Championship in 42 years, with McCreery’s crucial point after Brian Murphy’s goal securing the victory and earning him the Man of the Match title.
Triumphs and Challenges: The Making of a Group 1 Winner
In 2013, McCreery’s fortunes changed with Fiesolana, a filly he adored from the moment he saw her. Fiesolana transformed from a 92-rated handicapper to a Group 2 winner, culminating in her Group 1 victory in the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown. This win was a milestone for McCreery, who watched the race from the stands with his wife Amanda, away from the spotlight. Amanda’s support had been unwavering, allowing McCreery to pursue his dream.
Rathbride Stables, McCreery’s base since 2010, became a symbol of his success. With 45 boxes, a covered woodchip gallop, and 40 acres of turnout paddocks, it provided the ideal environment for his horses. McCreery’s meticulous care, from feeding routines to leveraging local veterinary services, showcased his dedication. The stable’s success was a testament to his hard work, with Fiesolana’s triumph marking a pinnacle in his career.
A Legacy of Excellence: McCreery's Continued Success
Willie McCreery's expertise extended beyond Fiesolana. His reputation for patience and skill with fillies and older horses grew, with notable successes like Up Helly Aa, a Galileo colt. McCreery's approach, focusing on long-term potential rather than quick results, earned him respect in the racing community.
Training racehorses was in McCreery's blood, and his background steeped in racing traditions helped him navigate the competitive world of flat racing in Ireland. His achievements, from his first winner in 2008 to becoming a top Irish flat trainer, underscored his dedication and talent. McCreery's journey from the football fields to the racetracks exemplified a blend of passion, hard work, and resilience, cementing his legacy in the world of horse racing.