New Zealand racing mourns Group 1-winning trainer Anne Herbert

The New Zealand thoroughbred industry is mourning the passing of respected Group 1-winning trainer Anne Herbert, who has died aged 68.

Herbert enjoyed a lifelong involvement with horses, beginning in pony club before progressing to trackwork riding and eventually taking out her trainer’s licence in 1991.

Her training career began in perfect fashion when her first starter, Perfect Return, won at her home track of Awapuni.

That early success marked the beginning of a career spanning more than three decades, during which Herbert trained numerous winners, including at the highest level.

Among the standout gallopers under her care was 2002-03 New Zealand Horse of the Year Tit For Taat, a five-time Group 1 winner who became one of the country’s best performers.

She also prepared Group 1 Railway Stakes winner Baldessarini, who captured the sprint feature in 2006, along with dual Group 3 winner Salvatore.

Herbert initially trained in the Manawatu before relocating to Cambridge, where she formed a close friendship and working relationship with fellow trainer Toni Croon.

Even after Croon moved back to the Chatham Islands, Herbert continued to train horses on her behalf, reflecting the strong bond between the pair.

Her passing marks another sad loss for the New Zealand racing community, with Herbert remembered for her passion for horses, dedication to the sport and achievements at the elite level.