Michael Iavarone: Age, Husband, Career, Net Worth & Big Brown Legacy
Michael Iavarone is a prominent figure in the horse racing and investment industries. He is best known as the co-founder of International Equine Acquisitions Holdings (IEAH Stables), which achieved significant success in thoroughbred racing, including winning the 2008 Kentucky Derby with Big Brown.
| Full Name | Michael Iavarone |
| Date of Birth | 1971 (exact date not publicly confirmed) |
| Age (as of 2024) | Approximately 53 years old |
| Place of Birth | New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Attended St. John’s University (studied finance) |
| Career | – Co-founder of IEAH Stables (2003–2010) – Investment banker – Founder of Amaranthum Partners (investment firm) |
| Notable Achievements | – Won the 2008 Kentucky Derby & Preakness Stakes with Big Brown – Managed multiple Grade I stakes race winners |
| Legal Issues | Faced SEC charges in 2015 for alleged securities fraud (case later dismissed) |
| Husband/Spouse | Married to Christina Iavarone (entrepreneur & reality TV personality) |
| Children | Two daughters (names not publicly disclosed) |
| Net Worth (Est.) | Estimated 10–10–20 million (varies by source) |
| Social Media | Limited public presence; occasionally featured on wife’s Instagram (@christinaiav) |
| Current Status | Active in investment ventures; maintains ties to horse racing |
Early Life & Love for Racing
Michael Iavarone was born and raised in Long Island, New York, where his interest in horse racing began at an early age. Weekend trips to racetracks with his father sparked a lifelong fascination. By age 15, a visit to the 1985 Breeders’ Cup at Aqueduct Racetrack left a lasting impact on the young Michael. Unlike many in the industry, Iavarone did not come from a racing background — his future success would be a blend of passion and financial savvy.
From Wall Street to Winner’s Circle
Before becoming a racing magnate, Iavarone made his mark in the world of investment banking. He approached the financial markets with the same analytical mind that would later transform how racing partnerships were managed. In 2003, he co-founded IEAH Stables (International Equine Acquisitions Holdings), applying hedge fund-like models to the world of horse racing — a radical shift at the time
Career Highlights
Michael Iavarone began his career in finance before transitioning into horse racing. His most notable venture, IEAH Stables, became a powerhouse in thoroughbred racing, with Big Brown emerging as one of the most famous racehorses of the 2000s. Despite legal challenges in the mid-2010s, Iavarone has remained involved in investment ventures through Amaranthum Partners.
Personal Life
Iavarone is married to Christina Iavarone, a businesswoman and reality TV personality known for appearances on The Real Housewives of New Jersey. The couple has two daughters and maintains a relatively private family life.
Legacy & Controversies
While Iavarone’s success in horse racing is undeniable, his career has also faced scrutiny, including an SEC lawsuit that was later dismissed. Despite setbacks, he remains a notable figure in sports and finance.
FAQs About Michael Iavarone
1. How old is Michael Iavarone?
Michael Iavarone was born in 1971, making him approximately 53 years old (as of 2024). His exact birth date is not publicly confirmed.
2. Who is Michael Iavarone’s husband? (Common typo/misquery correction)
Michael Iavarone is not a husband—he is the husband of Christina Iavarone, a reality TV star from The Real Housewives of New Jersey (RHONJ).
3. What is Michael Iavarone’s net worth?
Estimates suggest Michael Iavarone’s net worth ranges between $10–20 million, primarily from his horse racing ventures (IEAH Stables) and investment firm, Amaranthum Partners.
4. What happened to Michael Iavarone and IEAH Stables?
IEAH Stables, co-founded by Iavarone, rose to fame after winning the 2008 Kentucky Derby with Big Brown. The company dissolved around 2010 amid financial and legal issues, including an SEC lawsuit (later dismissed).
5. Is Michael Iavarone still involved in horse racing?
While no longer running IEAH Stables, Iavarone remains connected to horse racing through private investments. His focus shifted to finance and consulting via Amaranthum Partners.
6. Who is Michael Iavarone’s wife?
He is married to Christina Iavarone, an entrepreneur and occasional RHONJ guest. They have two daughters and reside in New York.
7. What was Michael Iavarone’s SEC case about?
In 2015, the SEC accused Iavarone of securities fraud related to investor funds. The case was dismissed in 2018, with no findings of wrongdoing.
8. Did Michael Iavarone own Big Brown?
Yes, his company IEAH Stables co-owned Big Brown, the 2008 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner. The horse’s career was cut short due to injury.
