Group 1-winning trainer Mat Ellerton has announced he will step away from training to focus on his health following a significant health scare earlier this year.
Ellerton suffered a stroke in June while on holiday in Bali and has been working through recovery while continuing to train out of his Flemington stables. Speaking to Racing.com, the accomplished trainer revealed he plans to have his final runners at next Wednesday’s Caulfield Heath meeting before taking an extended break from the sport.
With a career that includes 15 Group 1 victories, Ellerton admitted the past few months have been physically challenging as he navigates the aftermath of his stroke.
“My left arm is taking a bit of time to come right so I’ll have my last runners next week and we’ll see from there,” the 51-year-old explained.
It has been confirmed that Dom Sutton will take over training responsibilities for Ellerton’s horses at Flemington, many of which are owned by his long-time supporter David Moodie. Sutton will also continue training out of his own stable in Ballarat.
Ellerton’s decision marks the end of an era for one of Australian racing’s most respected figures, with the racing community wishing him a smooth recovery and success in his next chapter.
