O’Reilly Passes Away Peacefully

31 December 2014

Waikato Stud is very saddened to report that our legendary sire O’Reilly passed away peacefully in his paddock this morning.

“I have to say, I’ve had better years,” said Waikato Stud’s Mark Chittick.

“All good things must come to an end. O’Reilly has been wholly and solely responsible for the go forward and momentum of Waikato Stud as we know it today.

“We could not be more proud of his achievements or more thankful for his legacy.

“He has certainly been a breed shaper and we are indeed fortunate to be able to continue his amazing influence at the stud through his daughters and with his exciting sire son Sa-cred Falls in 2015.

“He has provided us and many people with some terrific highlights and will continue to do so in the future.”

O’Reilly was 21 years old.

The Corner with Garry Chittick

A couple of years ago, I hosted a number of friends and family at a local restaurant to enjoy my 80th birthday. It seems like yesterday, we had a great time with numerous testimonials, both serious and humorous. I am astounded at how the past two years have added to my CV in what seems like a flash. I can only believe my involvement in Thoroughbred Racing has provided all one could wish for as one ages.

21 May 2026

The Corner with Garry Chittick

I don’t know if the two of you have ever had the thrill of travelling at high speed across the water on a single ski, totally dependent on the driver of the boat. Fall off and you are left treading water, reminds you of racing. Here we are, with multiple hints of navigation hanging on to the rope hoping for salvation.