Vale Pat Hyland

Across a career spanning more than 30 years, Hyland rode 2,382 winners, including all four of Australia’s major races - the Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate and Golden Slipper.

Hyland’s most famous moment came forty years ago, when then Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, were on course to witness What A Nuisance surge to victory in the 1985 Melbourne Cup.

Hyland partnered many outstanding horses, but none more notable than Vain, trained by Jim Moloney, to whom he had been indentured as an apprentice in Warrnambool. Vain was a sensation, winning the 1969 STC Golden Slipper Stakes and triumphing on three of the four days of the 1969 Melbourne Cup Carnival.

After retiring from the saddle, Pat forged a successful training career at Cranbourne, including the winner of the 1995 VRC Oaks, Saleous.

He later joined the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour as an ambassador, proudly sharing the Cup’s history with communities across Australia and continuing his lifelong contribution to the racing industry.

VRC Chief Executive Kylie Rogers extended her condolences to the Hyland family on behalf of the Club.

“Pat Hyland was one of Australia’s great jockeys - a rider of immense talent, humility and professionalism across a career of more than 30 years,” Ms Rogers said.

“Our thoughts are with Pat’s family and friends at this sad time.”