The Riverrock Story
When Aliesha Moroney-Ormsby and Chad Ormsby set up Riverrock Farm in 2013 they had big plans – to develop a boutique horse education and training stable, that provided individualised plans to bring out the best in every equine athlete.
Back then, they started the business by offering agistment services, spelling and resting thoroughbreds between their racing campaigns. However, in 2016, change was on the cards, and Chad decided to leave his role as junior training partner at Ballymore Stables to focus entirely on the development of Riverrock. This saw the business expand into a successful breaking-in, re-education, and Ready to Run Sales preparation operation. By 2019, they had also established a thoroughbred racing arm, setting the foundation for what Riverrock Farm has become today.
“We often get the horses at a very young age, and at times we get horses that haven’t done well with other trainers due to behavioural issues. It is great to see them change and grow in confidence and actually begin to trust you – that’s what it is all about for me. It is very satisfying.” – Chad Ormsby
Knowing that the right facilities were essential to achieving their goals, Chad and Aliesha waited until they found the ideal property to set up as their main training base—which they did in 2022. They secured a 120 acre block on Maungatautari Road, which gives them everything they were looking for. The property took a bit of developing, but they now have all the facilities to educate young horses and keep old ones fresh in their work, including a sand track, arena, hills and rivers to freshen tired legs.
Chad heads up the racing barn, breaking in, re-education and Ready to Run Sales side of the business. Meanwhile, Aliesha helps out to oversee the business and marketing side of things, in between managing her own business.
To support Chad and Aliesha you will find a team of really experienced horsemen/women who love horses and ensure the welfare of each is paramount. Meanwhile, the support team consists of the country’s best vets, farriers, chiropractors, dentists etc.
“We know the importance of a top team and are really proud of the team we have surrounding us. Each of us have a deep connection and love of horses. We have employed people who reflect our family business values – they’re all highly-skilled and the results we get from our horses, shows that affinity” – Aliesha Moroney.
At Riverrock we pride ourselves on recognising the unique characteristics of every horse who comes to us, treating each as if they are our own and achieving the best possible results for our clients.
“Its important to us to ensure our horses, clients and connections remain happy, and we it all comes together and we get the results on the track, it's really satisfying.” – Chad Ormsby
Meet the Team
To provide the best service, you have to employee the best. A team that has different yet complementary skills and we believe we have done just this.
We are proud of our team. They are a team of hard workers, horse lovers and problem solvers, who love the outdoors, great banter and a good laugh. Our approach to each horse is unique and is based on who works best with each horse – we all have our favourites and almost always they are different.
Chad Ormsby
Owner & Senior Training Partner