TRAINER
MEET THE
KATHLEEN O'CONNELL
Kathleen O’Connell is one of North America’s most accomplished Thoroughbred trainers, holding the title of winningest female trainer of all time with more than 2,500 individual victories. Under her care, her horses have collectively won over 18,000 races, a testament to the depth and consistency of her training program. Originally from Detroit, she began her racing career at the Detroit Race Course, hot walking horses and catching loose runners before moving to Florida, to gallop for Sherman Armstrong. Her passion and dedication quickly established her as a dominant force in the state’s racing circuit.
Most Winningest Female Thoroughbred Trainer in North America
2,500+ wins and $1M+ earnings annually for 27 consecutive years
Trainer of Multiple Millionaires
Including Blazing Sword, Lady Shipman, Watch Me Go, Well Defined, and Stormy Embrace
FTBOA
Honoree
Kathleen holds several Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA) honoree awards including Leading Trainer (14x), Stakes Winner titles (3x), Bruce Campbell Award (2022)
Trailblazing
Records
Kathleen is the first woman to win training titles at Calder Casino & Race Course and Tampa Bay Downs
HER STORY & PHILOSOPHY
Kathleen’s career is defined by consistency, patience, and a hands-on approach to horsemanship. Her first major success came with Blazing Sword, a homebred for longtime clients Gilbert and Marilyn Campbell. Blazing Sword earned over $1.1 million, winning the 1997 Calder Derby (G3), Widener Handicap (G3), and Washington Park Handicap (G2).
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Her career has been marked by long-term partnerships and a commitment to Florida-bred racing. She has trained horses to more than $1 million in earnings for 27 consecutive years and has been recognized repeatedly by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA) for her leadership in races won, stakes winners, and earnings.
Kathleen and Souza Racing team on their maiden victory.