Darren Weir is a Australian professional horse racing trainer and stable owner, operating out of Ballarat, Victoria.
Born in Berriwillock, a small town in the Malle District of Victoria, Weir’s interest in the horsing industry developed from a young age.
Dropping out of high school early, Weir took to the local track and stables, partaking in various jobs along the way. Gaining experience as a track rider, strapper and even a farrier, Weir’s journey began at the early age of 15, before quickly garnering a reputation for his keen eye and ability to connect with horses on a winning level.
As his career continued, Weir sought apprenticeships under John Castleman in Mildura and Colin Hayes at Lindsay Park, which eventually led to earning his trainer’s licence in 1995. At the age of 25, Weir trained his first winner just months later, drawing the eye of many within the industry.
Fast forward, Weir’s success, along with his stable continued to grow. He moved to Ballarat in 2001, and as his dominance continued, Weir eventually bought more stables in Warrnambool.
Nearly 18 years later, Weir is now considered to be one of the most successful trainers in Australia, and one that is often worth backing.
The Weir empire continues to grow to this day, as does his long list of accomplishments, which include:
- 2013/14: Victorian Metro Trainer Premiership – the first country-based trainer to win the award.
- 2017/18: Commonwealth record for most number of wins in a season (491)
- Over 30 Group 1 victories
- Over 20 Group 2 victories
- Over 70 Group 3 victories
- Over $130,320,100 earned in Prize Money
- 15% career win rate
Accomplishments
| Year | Starts | Wins | Group 1 Wins | Win % | Place % | Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018/19 | 196 | 30 | 0 | 15% | 36% | $1,085,385 |
| 2017/18 | 3179 | 491 | 9 | 15% | 39% | $31,367,448 |
| 2016/17 | 2690 | 451 | 8 | 16% | 42% | $24,653,104 |
| 2015/16 | 2209 | 349 | 6 | 15% | 39% | $21,841,083 |
| 2014/15 | 1919 | 298 | 3 | 15% | 42% | $10,911,733 |
| 2013/14 | 1422 | 253 | 1 | 17% | 45% | $8,949,030 |