About Pete Nolan

Peter's life has always been intertwined with the world of horses, stemming from his family's rich history in harness racing. His father, Barry, was renowned for training exceptional horses like Encircle, Hall Ace, and the famed Trail of Gold, who dazzled spectators at the Wayville Showgrounds with his remarkable victories. Peter's grandfather, Dinny, further solidified the family's legacy by owning and training Captain Sandy, a dual Interdominion winner, who triumphed in the 1953 final.

With this equine heritage, Peter took a 20-year hiatus from horses to pursue his passion for triathlon. During this time, he competed nationally and internationally, coaching Australian age group champions, and took part in the World Police and Fire Games. His athletic achievements also include finishing 11 Ironman races, with a personal best time of 10 hours and 52 minutes, showcasing his dedication and resilience beyond the racetracks.

 The rich history, now continues through Pete Nolan Racing and his dedicated team.

Peter found himself reflecting on his earlier days with horses and decided to dive back into the world of thoroughbreds by purchasing shares. His investments paid off with successful racehorses like Scallopini, Itz Lily, and his first winner, Sleep Tight.

Yearning for more, he pursued a trainer's license while working as a stable hand for Niki O'Shea and Ashton Downing Racing, honing his horse handling skills.
Balancing his passion with his full-time job as a firefighter, Peter made his training debut on Melbourne Cup Day, November 6, 2018, with Chase Soprano. Just a month later, on December 4, he celebrated his first victory with Wing Snipper at Murray Bridge. His achievements continued to grow, including a first place in the Jamestown Cup, second in the Quorn Cup, and third at Mindarie-Halidon in 2021 with Baldy, showcasing his dedication and talent in the racing world. In 2022, Chelimo triumphed in the restricted series final at Morphettville. 

However, it is Hankster, his most successful horse, who truly captured attention by winning on debut as a two-year-old. Hankster's impressive achievements include clinching the Gawler Bung Fritz Cup and notching three metropolitan victories in a row. He narrowly missed out on winning the Gawler Cup in 2022, finishing a close second in a race filled with misfortune.Following his retirement from the fire service in December 2022, Peter relocated to Gawler to pursue training full-time. His efforts have already capture major attention; in 2024, he celebrated his first double at Port Augusta, with Shikanic and Important Product both crossing the finish line first, marking a promising new chapter in his training career.

So why choose Pete Nolan Racing?
  Apart from the loyalty, honesty and the respect, Pete is dedicated to each and every, runner in his stable, in order to exact the very best performance on any given day on a long and consistent basis!