A dream come true on Canada's biggest day of horse racing for Pietro Moran.

I remember the first time I heard Pietro Moran's name mentioned; my reaction was, "Who?"

I was out front alongside the rails at Woodbine racetrack and it was a year or more after Micah Husbands won his very first race with his first ever mount at Woodbine.

I was filled with a sense of curiosity about who the young jockey Pietro was, and my intrigue only deepened when I discovered who his father is. Knowing that his father had a significant legacy in the world of horse racing made me even more eager to see what kind of jockey Pietro would develop into as he honed his skills and carved out his own path in the sport. I had long admired the impressive victories that David, Pietro's father, achieved on the turf in some of his earlier races after making the transition from his home country of Ireland to compete in this highly competitive arena. David's talent was evident, and it was always exhilarating to watch the dynamic duo of trainer Michael Doyle and jockey David Moran tackle races where the odds seemed heavily stacked against them, yet they consistently managed to pull off remarkable wins, showcasing their resilience and strategic prowess. The first time I encountered Pietro was in that very same area where I had first heard whispers about him and his burgeoning career. He was brimming with enthusiasm and excitement, eager to embark on his journey as a rider. His passion for racing was palpable, and it was clear that he was not only following in his father's footsteps but also aiming to make a name for himself in the sport. I could see the determination in his eyes as he spoke about his aspirations and the hard work he was ready to put in. The atmosphere was charged with potential, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation about what the future held for this young jockey. As I learned more about his training regimen and the challenges he faced, I became increasingly invested in his story, eager to witness the evolution of his career in the thrilling world of horse racing.

Kings-Plate winner Mansetti _ photos by Simpul Photography.

I found out that he had wanted to be a jockey his entire life, a dream that seemed to run through his veins like the very blood of the thoroughbreds he aspired to ride. This aspiration was not just a fleeting fancy; it was a deeply rooted passion that he nurtured from a young age. It is something I heard over and over from his brothers, at least the ones I met, who would reminisce about their childhood days spent at the racetrack, where the scent of fresh hay and the sound of galloping hooves filled the air.

I remembered vividly seeing David Moran while he was on the injured list, a testament to the physical toll that the sport can exact from its participants. Despite his own struggles, he hobbled over to the track, a determined look on his face, to watch his son ride. It was a touching scene, one that encapsulated the unwavering support and dedication of a father who understood the challenges of the racing world.

David Moran_ speaking with Derek Headley

He stood there, filled with hope and anticipation, as he cheered for his son in hopes of winning his first race. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd buzzing in excitement and the horses anxiously awaiting their turn to race. However, that much-anticipated victory did not come easily.

The race that would mark Pietro's first triumph as a jockey didn't arrive until his eleventh start, a journey filled with both challenges and learning experiences. Each race was a lesson, a step closer to realizing his dream, and every setback only fueled his determination to succeed.

The trainer of the horse was none other than Kevin Attard, a respected name in the industry, known for his keen eye for talent and his ability to bring out the best in his horses. Under Attard's guidance, Pietro had the opportunity to hone his skills and learn the intricacies of the sport from one of the best in the business. This partnership was not just about training; it was about building a foundation for a promising career in horse racing, one that would hopefully fulfill the dreams that had been nurtured for so long.

Pietro Moran and Mansetti_Winning the 2025 Kings-Plate.

There have been many captivating stories about the father and son combination on the track, showcasing their shared passion for horse racing and the deep bond they have cultivated over the years. However, the most significant and memorable chapter in their journey unfolded when both father and son secured mounts in the highly anticipated 2025 Kings Plate.

This prestigious event is not just any race; it is a storied tradition in Canadian horse racing, known for its rich history and the elite competitors it attracts. As I watched the young jockey handle himself with remarkable composure and skill, it was evident that he had matured into a seasoned competitor overnight, especially after clinching victory in Canada’s most prestigious race.

The pride that must have swelled within his parents at that moment is unimaginable, as they witnessed their son achieving a milestone that many only dream of reaching in their lifetime. The Kings Plate, renowned for its grandeur, has a legacy that has drawn the attention of notable figures, including the Queen of England and various other members of royalty in the past.

The atmosphere during the event is electric, filled with anticipation and excitement, as spectators eagerly await the outcome of this historic race.

The significance of the Kings Plate extends beyond just the competition; it represents a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in the sport. As the young jockey celebrated his victory, surrounded by family, friends, and supporters, it was clear that this moment would be etched in their memories forever, marking a pivotal point in both his career and their family legacy in horse racing.

Mansetti _ leading all the way in the 2025 Kings-plate at Woodbine racetrack.