Pietro Moran: A Rising Star Poised for Eclipse Award Glory

Toronto, Ontario — The horse racing world is buzzing with excitement as apprentice jockey Pietro Moran has been nominated for the Eclipse Award in the USA for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey, one of North America’s most prestigious honors in Thoroughbred racing. This nomination underscores Pietro’s meteoric rise in the sport and places him among the continent’s top young talents — alongside names like Emma-Jayne Wilson and Kazushi Kimura, who have also captured both Sovereign Awards and Eclipse honors during their storied careers. 

From Early Beginnings to Early Success

Born in Ireland and raised in Canada from the age of six, Pietro hails from Palgrave, Ontario, steeped in horse racing tradition. He comes from a true racing family: his father, David Moran, is an accomplished jockey with more than two decades of experience and loads of graded stakes wins to his name; his mother, Maria, also rode competitively before her family life; and his brother Will Moran remains deeply involved in racing as a galloper and outrider at Woodbine. 

Pietro launched his professional career in 2023 and quickly made an impact, winning 4 of his first 20 races that fall. He followed that with a breakout 2024 season, earning 62 wins and garnering a Sovereign Award nomination as Canada’s top apprentice jockey — an honor that foreshadowed even greater achievements ahead. 

According to career statistics for 2025, Pietro’s record includes 863 starts with 140 wins, accompanied by strong in-the-money percentages that reflect his consistency and competitive edge on the track. 

Overcoming Adversity: From Fall at Fort Erie to Comeback

Like many great athletes, Pietro’s journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. In September 2024, he suffered a significant spill at Fort Erie Racetrack on Prince of Wales Day, where he broke his back and fractured a rib — injuries that could have derailed his career. Yet, displaying remarkable resilience and determination, he worked diligently through recovery and returned to racing stronger than ever. 

His comeback began with winning races on opening day in April 2025, quickly proving that the setback had sharpened, not diminished, his competitive spirit. 

Making History: King’s Plate Triumph

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x57tuBwDFNc

At just 20 years old, Pietro etched his name into Canadian racing history by winning the 166th King’s Plate aboard Manset­ti at Woodbine Racetrack — becoming one of the youngest jockeys ever to capture the iconic race in the modern era and the third-youngest in history. This win not only showcased his tactical mastery and calm poise under pressure but also cemented his status as a rising star on both sides of the border. 

In an extraordinary family moment, Pietro competed in the King’s Plate against his father David, marking the first time in history a father and son have faced each other in the race. His brother Will, serving as outrider at Woodbine, was also an integral part of that unforgettable day. 

A Humble Champion from a Racing Dynasty

What truly sets Pietro apart isn’t just his natural riding ability — it’s the humility, work ethic, and strong family foundation that define him. Growing up riding ponies and racing with his siblings, he learned early on the value of dedication and respect for the sport. Today, he continues to balance his athletic pursuits with academic studies, having taken courses in kinesiology to deepen his understanding of athletic performance. 

With strong support from his father, mother, brother, and the wider racing community, Pietro Moran exemplifies the blend of talent and character that distinguishes the sport’s true champions.

Eyes on the Eclipse

Pietro’s King’s Plate victory and leadership in Woodbine’s 2025 jockey standings — including being among the top in wins, starts, and earnings — have positioned him as a leading contender for the Eclipse Award as Outstanding Apprentice Jockey. Should he capture this honor, Pietro will join the ranks of legendary riders like Emma-Jayne Wilson and Kazushi Kimura, further highlighting his potential to shape the future of Thoroughbred racing in North America and beyond. 

From humble beginnings to historic achievements, Pietro Moran’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering support of a family united by racing — a narrative that resonates with fans across Canada and the United States alike.

On behalf of the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Pietro Moran on his nomination for the Eclipse Award as Outstanding Apprentice Jockey. This recognition is not only a testament to Pietro’s exceptional talent, perseverance, and professionalism, but also a proud moment for Canadian racing as a whole.

From overcoming adversity to achieving historic success on the sport’s biggest stages, Pietro has represented Canada with class, humility, and determination. As he now stands alongside past Canadian greats such as Emma-Jayne Wilson and Kazushi Kimura, who have gone on to earn both Sovereign and Eclipse Award honours, Pietro continues to inspire the next generation of riders north of the border.

The HBPA is proud to support and celebrate one of our own as he competes on the international stage. We are cheering loudly for our Canadian rider and wish Pietro the very best as Eclipse Award honours are decided.

Canada is watching — and cheering — all the way!!