Although during the 70’s and 80’s the Melbourne Cup appeared to be all about Bart Cummings, George Hanlon also had a fabulous record as a trainer in this era.
Between 1972 and 1984, Hanlon recorded three Cup victories of his own. We’re looking into that outstanding achievement, as well as the man himself and his background.
Hanlon saw out his days in Victoria, a state that treated him and his career well.
About George Hanlon
Racehorse trainer George Hanlon will be remembered not just for his excellence, which he undoubtedly possessed, but also his incredible longevity.
Hanlon in fact was one of the oldest lincense-holding trainers in Australia. He held that distinction until he sadly passed in January 2010 at the age of 92.
George Hanlon’s training career lasted more than 50 years. During that time, he became known for his ability to train big-race winners around Australia.
As well as gaining Melbourne Cup success, Hanlon also trained winners of the Brisbane Cup, Caulfield Cup, Australian Cup, the Cox Plate, the AJC Derby and the Doncaster Mile. He also took down no fewer than four Adelaide Cups in his time.
Despite having reached the ripe old age of 83, Hanlond trained the winner of the Sydney Cup (Prudent). In 2002, he was added to the racing Hall of Fame.
Melbourne Cup Achievements
George Hanlon is a three-time winner of the Melbourne Cup. With that stat, he can be remembered as one of the most successful trainers of all time in this race.
George Hanlon’s Melbourne Cup Wins
Among his great achievements were George Hanlon’s three Melbourne Cup victories, namely:
| Year | Winner | Age | Jockey | Horse Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 | Black Night | 5 | Peter Cook | Robert Holmes a Court | 3:18.90 |
| 1978 | Arwon | 5 | Harry White | Doon Bros Syndicate | 3:24.30 |
| 1972 | Piping Lane | 6 | John Letts | RW Trinder | 3:19.30 |
Black Knight is remembered by many as being the subject of a big gamble before the race. Despite this and having been placed in the Geelong Cup, his regular jockey rejected him. Peter Cook took over and won the race by 2½ lengths.
Arwon was a busy horse. His 1978 Melbourne Cup at the age of five was one of 67 racecourse appearances. He won 16 times.
George Hanlon’s first victory was provided by Piping Lane who was having a stellar 1972. Having won the CB Cox Stakes and the Hobart Cup, Piping Lane also took the Melbourne Cup at a huge 40/1.
