TORONTO — A historic first is set to unfold at Woodbine Racetrack this Saturday, August 16, when veteran jockey David Moran and his son, rising star Pietro Moran, line up against each other in The King’s Plate — marking the first time in the event’s 166-year history that a father and son will compete in the same race.
The King’s Plate, North America’s longest continuously run Thoroughbred horse race, serves as the opening leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown and is considered Canada’s most prestigious horse racing event. While the $1-million race has produced countless memorable moments since its inception in 1860, this year’s edition will add a unique chapter to its storied tradition.
In a twist of fate, the Morans will start side-by-side in the gate. Pietro, riding Kevin Attard-trained Mansetti (10-1), will break from the inside post position, while David will be aboard William T (20-1), trained by Don MacRae, from post two.
“Competing in The King’s Plate is important to every jockey,” said David. “To be here alongside my son, both of us with the same ambition to win The Plate is a very special feeling.”
For Pietro, the opportunity is both deeply personal and professionally significant.
“I grew up watching him race and learning from him,” he said. “Now we get to share this moment together on the sport’s biggest stage—it’s surreal.”
The matchup highlights the family-oriented nature of the horse racing world, where passion, skill, and dedication often pass from one generation to the next. Industry observers say the father-son pairing embodies the sport’s heritage while appealing to a new generation of fans.
“Moments like this remind us that The King’s Plate is not just about competition—it’s about history, heritage, and the people who make our sport so special,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment. “We’re thrilled to witness this remarkable family achievement.”
David Moran: A Seasoned Veteran
Hailing from Templemore, Ireland, David Moran launched his racing career in 1999. After racing periodically at Woodbine in 2009 and 2019, he moved full-time to Canada in 2011, quickly establishing himself as a consistent contender at the Toronto track. Over the course of his career, he has won 14 graded stakes and notably claimed the 2010 Woodbine Oaks. Off the track, Moran is a father to eight children — four boys and four girls.
Pietro Moran: A Rising Star
Pietro, the second eldest of the Moran children, began his professional riding career in 2023 at the age of 18. He made an immediate impression, winning four of his first 20 races. In 2024, he recorded 62 victories and earned a Sovereign Award nomination as Canada’s Top Apprentice Jockey.
His momentum was briefly halted by a racing injury in September 2024, but he returned to competition stronger than ever. As of this week, Pietro leads all Canadian riders in wins for 2025, with 66 victories already secured.
The Race Ahead
The 2025 King’s Plate will be run at approximately 5:30 p.m. ET on Saturday at Woodbine Racetrack. The event is expected to draw a capacity crowd, with tickets nearly sold out through Ticketmaster and KingsPlate.com. Fans across Canada can watch the race live on City TV and Sportsnet.
While the million-dollar purse and Triple Crown implications will drive competition among the full field, much of the spotlight will inevitably be on the rare father-son showdown. Both Morans will be aiming for victory, but regardless of the outcome, the race will mark a milestone in Canadian horse racing history.
For Woodbine and the broader racing community, the story of David and Pietro Moran underscores the enduring appeal of the sport — a blend of fierce competition, deep-rooted tradition, and moments that transcend the track.