The Riverrock Story
When Aliesha Moroney 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 using the 15-acre property, as an agistment farm, used to spell and rest thoroughbreds in between their 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 on the development of Riverrock. This saw the business expanding into a successful breaking-in, re-education and Ready to Run Sales preparation farm. In 2019 the business added a thoroughbred racing arm, and a further 20 acres on Kaipaki Road.
“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
Now Riverrock Farm has two bases. The Karapiro farm which houses the warmbloods and initially the education horses, until they graduate and are ready for a busier environment, at which point they transition to the Kaipaki Road property. Meanwhile, the Kaipaki Road property houses all of the racehorses. Between both property’s we have a 1850m sand and grass track, jump-out facilities, a small trotting track, a 25 x 60m sand and rubber arena, 22 boxes, 28 paddocks and 12 sands yards- all within a 15-minute drive to both the Cambridge and Matamata training centres.
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
OWNER/SENIOR TRAINING PARTNER
RIDER&
CONTENT SUPPORT
ALI
