Champion conditioner Roger Attfield, who has won a record-tying eight King’s Plates, including three Canadian Triple Crowns, has announced his retirement from training.
Below is a letter he shared with Woodbine regarding his decision.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I have decided to retire from training.
Having hung my first shingle up when only 17, as a rider and trainer of horses I feel that 69 years later is a pretty good number of innings.
All of my life I have always been a hands-on trainer and now at 86 I can no longer ride out on my pony with sets, and unable to safely inspect them in stalls. Both of these things always helped me understand my horses needs, mentally and physically to get the very best from them, no longer being able to perform these duties properly, it’s time to say Hasta La Vista!
This winter I only brought 7 horses to Florida, a month ago after having a small disagreement over when and where to run them I decided to send them all to one of his other trainers.
They were all very nice horses, I will miss them, but wish only the very best of luck to all.
Throughout the years I have trained for so many great owners whom I would like to say thank you to from the bottom of my heart.
My intention is to continue owning and breeding, also consulting and buying.
As a director of our local HBPA, I will also continue to fight for everything that will help our industry.”
~ Roger Attfield
Woodbine Salutes Attfield
Woodbine Entertainment celebrates the extraordinary career of Hall of Fame trainer Roger Attfield, who has announced his retirement from training.
An admired figure across the Thoroughbred racing industry, Attfield leaves the sport as one of its most accomplished and respected participants, who built a legacy defined by consistency, horsemanship, and an unwavering commitment to the care and development of his horses.
“The impact Roger Attfield made on Woodbine and Canadian racing as a whole is immeasurable,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of Woodbine. “His achievements speak for themselves, but it is the respect he earned from owners, peers, and fans that truly defines his legacy.”
Born in Newbury, England, Attfield immigrated to Canada in 1970 and took his first training job with Gateway Farms. He quickly made a name for himself, including developing the colt Norcliffe, who won the 1976 Queen’s Plate. Over the course of his career, he recorded more than 2,000 wins and trained dozens of Sovereign Award winners, including an incredible six Canadian Horse of the Year winners.
Among his many accomplishments, Attfield trained three Canadian Triple Crown winners (With Approval, Izvestia, Peteski) and captured a record-tying eight King’s Plate victories, cementing his place among the sport’s elite.
For his own trophy case, Attfield won eight Sovereign Awards as Canada’s Outstanding Trainer. Among Attfield’s most memorable victories is a Breeders’ Cup triumph in 2011 with Perfect Shirl in the Filly & Mare Turf at Churchill Downs.
In recognition of his outstanding career, Attfield was inducted into both the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame and the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame, as well as the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame.
Throughout his time at Woodbine, Attfield became synonymous with excellence on the backstretch, known for his attention to detail and deep understanding of the Thoroughbred. His horses consistently competed and won at the highest levels, and his influence helped shape generations of horsepeople.
“Roger’s horsemanship and dedication set a standard that will endure for years to come,” added Copeland. “He has been a cornerstone of our racing community, and we are proud to have been part of his journey.”
As he steps away from training, Attfield leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire the sport for years to come.
Woodbine extends its congratulations to Roger Attfield on a remarkable career and wishes him all the best in his retirement. Woodbine plans to host a formal recognition for Roger Attfield during the 2026 racing season.
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