The Journey of Tony Ottobre: From Heartbreak to Horse Racing Triumph
Tony Ottobre’s foray into the world of horse racing is a poignant tale woven with love, loss, and an unwavering spirit. It all began on Melbourne Cup day in 2016, a day that would forever change the trajectory of his life. On that fateful day, a horse named Jennifer Lynn, named in honor of his late daughter, won a stakes race, igniting a passion in Tony that would lead him down a path he never anticipated.
A Gift Born from Love
Tony’s journey into horse racing started in 2011 when he purchased his first thoroughbred, JenniO. This wasn’t just any horse; JenniO was a heartfelt gift for his daughter, Jennifer, who had recently been diagnosed with brain cancer. Tragically, Jennifer passed away four years later at the tender age of 30. In the wake of this profound loss, Tony and his wife, Lynn, found solace in honoring their daughter’s memory through the sport they had come to love.
A Family Legacy in Racing
The Ottobre family’s commitment to horse racing blossomed after Jennifer Lynn’s victory. Inspired by that win, they decided to dive headfirst into the racing world. They sold their family home and invested in a sprawling 20-hectare property at Cape Schanck, located on the picturesque southern tip of Port Phillip Bay. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with ambition and a growing stable of horses. Today, the Ottobres own over 70 horses, each one a tribute to their beloved daughter.
The Rise of Pride Of Jenni
Among the many horses that have graced their stables, Pride Of Jenni stands out as a beacon of success. This remarkable horse has brought the Ottobre family more than $10 million in prizemoney, making her far and away the most successful of their racing endeavors. Her most celebrated moment came during the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick, where she showcased an extraordinary performance, leading the race by an astonishing 100 meters. Trainer Ciaron Maher described this run as a spectacle that would be hard to replicate.
Recent Performances and Future Aspirations
Just last Saturday, Pride Of Jenni finished a commendable second in the King Charles III Stakes, further solidifying her status as a top contender in the racing circuit. With the Cox Plate looming on the horizon, she is already among the favorites, a testament to her consistent performance and the dedication of her team. Maher expressed confidence in her ability to bounce back, noting that she had shown no signs of fatigue after her recent run.
“Pride Of Jenni is in great form, and we’re hopeful for her performance in the Cox Plate,” Maher shared with ACM Racing. He emphasized that her run in the King Charles was impressive, and he believes she will be better suited to the 2040 meters at Moonee Valley. The signs are promising; after a light workout, she eagerly dove into her feed, a clear indication of her well-being.
The Betting Landscape
As the anticipation builds for the Cox Plate, the betting odds reflect the excitement surrounding Pride Of Jenni. Currently, she is priced at $3.90, closely trailing the favorite, Japanese import Prognosis, who stands at $3.60. With the race set to jump at 5:10 PM AEDT, the Ottobre family and their supporters are brimming with hope and excitement.
Tony Ottobre’s journey through the world of horse racing is not just about the horses or the races; it’s a heartfelt tribute to his daughter, Jennifer. Each victory and each moment in the racing spotlight serves as a reminder of the love that fuels this family’s passion. As they continue to honor Jennifer’s memory, the Ottobre family remains a testament to resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter.