Peter Sherman Willmott, a prominent Thoroughbred owner and breeder who served as a trustee and chairman of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA), passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and passion for the sport, and a successful career in business.
‣ Peter Sherman Willmott was a prominent owner and breeder of Thoroughbred horses and played a significant role in the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) and The Jockey Club.
‣ Among the top horses Willmott raced were Eddington and Williamstown, who had significant victories in major stakes races.
‣ Willmott had a successful career in business and was involved in various volunteer and civic service roles.
Blank/empty response
The Thoroughbred horse racing community suffered a great loss when Peter Sherman Willmott passed away at the age of 86 on November 11. His funeral services were held on Saturday. Throughout his impressive career, he left a significant and lasting mark as an owner and breeder of Thoroughbreds, particularly through his leadership at the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) and as a steward of The Jockey Club. Willmott’s obituary in the Chicago Sun-Times expressed that his love for the industry remained at the heart of his life.
During his racing tenure, Willmott celebrated successes with top horses like Eddington, winner of the 2005 GI Pimlico Special H., and Williamstown, victor of the 1993 GII Withers S. Dan Metzger, president of TOBA, praised Willmott in a press release, noting that “Pete’s integrity, passion, and commitment to the sport” left an indelible legacy on everyone associated with TOBA.
Champion racehorse Williamstown, whom Willmott owned, made history by setting a record at Belmont Park. He remains the name behind a mile race record that only Najran has broken. Willmott was not only involved in the Thoroughbred industry but also had an illustrious business career, working and reaching executive roles at renowned firms.
However, despite his professional success, Willmott also dedicated his time to generous volunteer and civic service roles. Memorial contributions to the Sanjiv Shah Laboratory at the Northwestern Memorial Foundation are encouraged in lieu of flowers, an indication of how much his charity work meant to him. Willmott’s obituary noted that “to read or add to Willmott’s online memorial book, click here.”
