John Tapp Racing

After 24 years in the employ of other trainers, Brad Widdup was coaxed into training in his own right as recently as 2017. Two years later he endured a setback that would have discouraged most horsemen in the same position. This man’s recovery has been spectacular. We begin by getting Brad’s reaction to his best season ever in 2021/2022. He talks of a flying start in the new season. Brad says his recent success has brought increased support to his Hawksbury operation. This interview was recorded before Saturday’s Randwick meeting when stable star Icebath was unplaced in The Invitation after a hopeless start. Brad takes us through his remarkable journey with the classy mare. Brad takes us back to early days in Albury when his father Pat was his greatest inspiration. Brad says his dad, who is still training a small team, is an outstanding all round horseman. He recalls his introduction to Sydney racing when he gained a start with Warwick Farm trainer Rod Craig. He then talks about a succession of jobs with some outstanding horsemen. Brad could have applied for his licence much earlier, but chose to keep gaining experience. Brad was working for Crown Lodge when word filtered through that Bob Ingham had decided to sell the entire operation to Sheikh Mohammed. He recalls the moment. Brad looks back on the commencement of his own training career and acknowledges some of the horses who got him up and running. He talks of his association with jockeys, and echoes the sentiments of most trainers who experience difficulty in securing the regular service of capable work riders. Brad pays tribute to the training facilities offered by the Hawkesbury Race Club with special mention of the Polytrack. He talks of his wife Milissa and three teenage children. Brad had twenty four years of experience under the belt when he was cajoled into training horses in his own right. After a shaky start through no fault of his own, Widdup has bounced back in spectacular fashion.

Great to catch up with one of Australia’s ever increasing number of female jockeys. The lady with a name that catches the eye, is 37 years old and could be the nation’s oldest apprentice. Kath Bell-Pitomac talks about the gruelling travelling she undertakes to ride at meetings all over the state. Kath reminisces about her nomadic childhood. She talks of early days in South Australia, Victoria, and the Northern Territory. Horses were always her chief interest. She recalls her first introduction to racehorses at Pioneer Park racetrack Alice Springs. Kath recalls her first job as a professional trackwork rider. She talks of a move to Newcastle and the trainer who signed her to an apprenticeship.  The mature age apprentice remembers her early winners and the beginning of her relationship with the fellow jockey who would become her husband. Kath looks back on her break away from racing. She lost the desire completely and didn’t ride a racehorse for ten years.   She talks of her return to trackwork at Wellington(NSW). Slowly the passion returned and she began a new career as an amateur jockey. It wasn’t long before she got her weight down and re applied for her professional licence. Kath talks openly about her horror run of accidents, the extent of her many injuries  and the frustrating months out of the saddle. The thirty seven year old acknowledges her favourite horses and favourite races. Bell-Pitomac pays tribute to the special people who’ve inspired her to pursue a lifelong passion for horses, including her dedicated manager. The remarkable horse person talks of husband Daniel and two wonderful kids- the son and daughter who look forward to the fashions in the field promotions at country race meetings.

Great to catch up with a man who has been part of the fabric of SA racing for more than four decades. He talks of his passion for race riding at age 59. David talks about the dual jockey/trainer licence which enables him to train a small team at Morphettville. He reflects on a recent Gawler win on a horse trained by his son David Jnr. Some said it would have been the perfect time to quit the saddle. David talks of his apprenticeship in 1976 to the emerging legend Bart Cummings. He looks back on his first winning ride just 24 hours after gaining his “ticket”. The evergreen jockey remembers his transfer from Cummings to the Colin Hayes training empire at Angaston, and the discouraging advice given to him by Peter Hayes. He reminisces about his two coveted Gr 1 wins- two editions of the South Australian Oaks. “Toot” takes us back to his one and only Melbourne Cup ride. He reflects on his role as stable jockey for an up and coming young trainer called John Hawkes. David looks back on his association with three of Australia’s best gallopers of the 80’s and 90’s.

Great to catch up with a young horseman who has already made his mark as a trainer and driver at the top level. Brad begins by pointing out the many advantages of being based at Goulburn. He reflects on the tutelage he received from his late grandfather Tom Hewitt, one of the most respected horsemen of his generation. Brad talks of the influence Tom had on his sons- David, Bernie and Mark, all highly successful in their own right. He says his Aunt Jenna, the only girl in the Hewitt family wasn’t allowed to drive in races. The young horseman talks of the trotting genes to be found on the maternal side of his family. Brad says his brothers have also chosen harness racing as their preferred livelihood- Sam as a trainer and breaker, Scott as a trainer and farrier. Sister Jess also gets a mention. The thirty year old looks back on the thrill of his first winning drive and his handful of winners at historic Harold Park.   Brad pays tribute to the special horses who’ve helped to launch his career. He speaks with great reverence of his all time favourite Spare Me Days.   He speaks of his great friendship with Canberra Raiders skipper Jarrod Croker, an avid harness racing fan. For the trots punters Brad highlights a couple of promising young horses in his stable. He talks of his only Gr 1 winning drive to date. It was Rockin’ Marty in a Breeders Challenge Final. The horse was trained by his father David. Brad says his partner Milly had no interest in horses when they met but quickly adapted. He and Milly are the proud parents of Ruby who’s almost two and William who arrived only a few weeks ago.

It was mid October when I invited Ray Hadley to be special guest on the occasion of our 500th podcast episode. Never once during the conversation did the legendary broadcaster so much as hint that he was contemplating calling time on his 2GB morning programme. We made arrangements to record the interview on the afternoon of Thursday November 5th. Like many of his listeners and colleagues I was stunned, when less than an hour into his programme on Thursday Ray made the shock announcement that December 13th is to be his final day in the 2GB studios. Television news crews were setting up in the building long before he finished his on air shift at midday. The broadcaster was inevitably “swamped” by media outlets for several hours. I wouldn’t have been one bit surprised had he requested a postponement of our podcast interview, but I should have known better. True to his word Ray was ready to go when I called him as arranged at 4.30pm. I reminded him  that nobody had seen this coming. He admitted it was a surreal experience to be announcing his own retirement from mainstream radio. I asked Ray to identify the likely reasons he was able to win 160 consecutive surveys. He nominated one particular story where his on air comments contributed to a better outcome. Ray made no secret of the fact that he won’t be lost to media, but says the days of 3.30am wake up calls are over.  He takes us back to childhood days as the son of hard working parents Morris and Elsie Hadley. Ray looks back on the massive impact of his father’s death at just 46 years of age. He shares some funny stories from his eight years with Steers Auctions at Parramatta. He believes his experience as an auctioneer helped to develop his commentary skills.  Ray says he was chuffed beyond belief in the early 80’s when offered the role of Harold Park course broadcaster following the retirement of Ray Conroy.  He takes us back to the days immediately after the Super League war when 2UE lost its Rugby League broadcast rights. 2UE’s Continuous Call team made history when it continued to win the ratings without broadcasting the game.  Ray pays a special tribute to the man they called “The Starmaker.” 2UE Programme Director the late John Brennan was lauded in the industry for his unique ability to spot potential talent from a mile off.  Ray Hadley’s career took a life changing turn in 2002 when John Singleton purchased 2GB. He initially poached Ray from 2UE to call Rugby League, but changed his mind soon after. The broadcaster was stunned when “Singo” asked him to take over the morning programme in opposition to 2UE’s John Laws. Ray shares the full story. The multiple award winning broadcaster says he has no regrets about missing the opportunity to call 100 State Of Origins. Ray was privileged to be a member of the commentary team for seven Olympic Games. He says Cathy Freeman’s unforgettable win in the 400m at the Sydney Olympics remains his fondest memory. He was agreeable to looking back on what he describes as the lowest point in his long career- the 2019 bullying allegations from a small group of staff members. He looks back with candour on a very unhappy time in his life. Ray talks with great affection of his children and grandchildren. Today he’s the quintessential doting grandfather. It’s a massive coincidence that Ray’s retirement announcement came just a few hours before this podcast was recorded. No wonder he was in the mood to reminisce. Great to have him on our 500th podcast episode.

The story of the Freedman era is one of racing’s all time best - four enthusiastic young brothers who made an amazing journey from the family stud farm at Yass to the establishment of a Victorian based training powerhouse. Lee held sway as trainer with Anthony, Richard and Michael handling crucial roles in the background. Together they had an enormous impact on Australian racing for three decades. Lee won seven Melbourne trainer’s premierships and was runner up six times. Today the boys are all training under their own banners with Lee opting for a much quieter life on the Gold Coast. The former leader of the FBI was very gracious with his time on this week’s podcast. He begins by berating his talents as a golfer. Lee talks about his current 31 horse team, a fraction of the number he trained in the busiest days of the FBI. He talks of the wide choice of race meetings he has from his Gold Coast base. Lee takes us back to early days at Hardwicke Stud near Yass, where he and his siblings gained sound education under the supervision of father Tony. He delights in telling the story of his first win as a trainer with a quirky but very talented grey called Sitting Bull. It was hard to keep news of the horse’s talent under wraps.  Lee says his training career actually began at Warwick Farm. He looks back on a relocation to Flemington and a mare called Sauna - the daughter of Loosen Up who put the Freedmans on the map. Lee hasn’t forgotten the thrill of a maiden Gr 1 win. He reflects on the rapid rise of the FBI and the simple theory he had about stress management. We needed to get started on Lee’s reminiscences of the many wonderful horses to come through the Freedman operation. Who better to begin with than the incomparable Makybe Diva. She arrived in the Freedman camp having won 8 races for David Hall including her first Melbourne Cup. Lee recalls his expectations.  He reflects on his first win with the mighty mare, the 2004 Melbourne Cup. The trainer recalls the mare’s dominance in the autumn and spring of 2005, and the memorable comments he made in a TV interview after her third Cup win- comments which have passed into folklore. Lee gives his view on why she was such an athlete. The great trainer looks back on wonderful journeys with crowd favourites Subzero and Doriemus, two more Melbourne Cup winners. It’s not hard to tell Super Impose was one of Lee’s great favourites. He shares some special memories. Lee puts into words his  enormous admiration for Naturalism.  The list of good horses to pass through the Freedman’s hands is seemingly endless. He sings the praises of Mahogany and Schillaci. The Golden Slipper was a mighty race for the Freedmans in the 1990’s. Lee talks about their four consecutive wins in the famous two year old race. Durbridge is another marvellous horse to get the thumbs up from his former trainer. The legendary trainer will surprise some when he says his greatest racetrack thrill came outside Australia. He looks back on his Royal Ascot journey with Miss Andretti. Lee used some of Australia’s greatest jockeys during the golden years of the Freedman reign. He’s prepared to single one of them out for special praise.  He speaks with pride of daughters Emma and Georgia. Lee pays tribute to his greatest ever supporter, late mother Del who passed just two years ago. He pays tribute to Anthony, Richard and Michael who have each forged great individual careers. A podcast with Lee Freedman is long overdue. We’re delighted to finally get it done.

A hat trick of recent country wins by improving gelding My Last Hooray rekindled memories of Frank Cleary’s glory days in Australian racing. The popular trainer wound down his training operation following two health scares in 2020, and has been training only a handful of horses in recent times. He even hinted that he may walk away from a business that took him to racing’s biggest stage. On learning that My Last Hooray isn’t the only horse on his books, we decided to investigate the immediate future of the Queanbeyan based trainer. He certainly doesn’t confirm likely retirement. Frank talks about two unraced young horses currently in his care. He reflects on the chest pains that sent him to hospital in 2020, and a second ailment that followed closely on his heart scare. Frank talks of the racing involvement in his family background. It’s well known that a young Frank Cleary showed great promise as a rugby league player in pivotal positions. He says he actually started in the Aussie Rules code. Switching to league in the late 60’s he quickly gained a spot in the Queanbeyan Blues Under 18’s side. He looks back on two encounters with a touring British test side. Frank says several niggling injuries eventually finished his football career and sent him in the direction of a new livelihood. You won’t believe some of the things he did for a living in his pre horse training days.   He says his life changed dramatically the day he attended an Inglis Tried Stock sale and came away with a $1400 unraced gelding. That horse shaped Frank’s destiny. The trainer says he had to wait a long time for his first Gr 1 win but it happened to be in one of the oldest classics on the AJC calendar. Select Prince was by Imperial prince as was another Cleary favourite Friend’s Venture. Frank says he was an amazing horse. The trainer thought someone was “pulling his leg” when he got a phone call from a man purporting to be an American owner asking him to train a horse. Frank remembers the late Ken T. Jones who continued to support his stable for several years. He remembers the unsound horse who motivated Jones’ original phone call. Cleary has never forgotten a day at the Gold Coast Sale when Ken Jones had to be talked into buying a Zoffany colt who was destined to become one of Australia’s best two year olds of 1992. Frank remembers Clan O’Sullivan’s impressive early form and his defeat in the 1992 Golden Slipper when he got no favours. Fast forward some six years and Frank recalls the purchase of a Danehill colt who would atone for Clan O’Sullivan’s Slipper defeat. Frank takes us back to the events of Slipper day 1999 when the hot pre post favourite was a late scratching from the famous two year old race. He pays tribute to jockey Mark de Montfort. He looks at a few other good money spinners to carry the Ken Jones colours. Frank looks back on a bold move he instigated in the late 1990’s. He decided to give training a try in the big smoke when stables became available in a new block at Rosehill. His neighbour was a young Kiwi trainer who was testing the water in Sydney. The veteran trainer says there were no stars in the stable during his Sydney stint, but a few handy horses kept him ticking over. He talks of a flying visit to Melbourne with a horse called Shot Of Comfort. It was a good result for the stable and for owner Dominic Beirne.  Frank was chuffed to win his only hometown Cup with Bomber Command in 2009. He reflects with delight with his all time top training effort- six wins  on the Forbes Cup programme in 1994. The trainer pays a heartfelt tribute to his wife Sue. Frank gives a shout out to his four sons with special mention of Joe who’s rapidly gaining recognition as a trainer in his own right. It’s a lovely trip down memory lane with one of the real characters of the Australian training ranks.

With the Sydney jockey’s room virtually a closed shop, other talented riders are obliged to carve themselves a niche in one of several strong NSW regional centres. With no shortage of race meetings, these jockeys are able to pursue a healthy livelihood, sneaking to town from time to time when an opportunity arises. One such jockey is Billy Owen who’s services are in regular demand in the Southern Districts. Bill’s first stint as a professional rider was halted by weight problems in 2013. He spent the next five years on the amateur circuit winning more than a hundred races. He was thrilled in 2018 when his weight stabilised, allowing him to return to the pro ranks. Bill talks about his current run of success. He speaks highly of My Last Hooray whose three recent wins have impressed the jockey. The gelding is the only horse in the stable of former multiple Gr 1 winning trainer Frank Cleary. The jockey talks of Asgarda, the mare he partnered in the Kosciuszko. Bill’s location between Canberra and Queanbeyan enables him to ride trackwork at both venues. The 32 year old takes us back to his early days growing up on the family farm near Gundagai. He says he was in the saddle at age 3. He talks of his favourite equine activities and a brief stint at the rodeo. Bill says he loved every minute of his Rugby League involvement with the Gundagai Tigers. His “jockey’s frame” came against him.  With the blessing of his parents, Billy gained an apprenticeship with Nick Olive. The jockey clearly recalls his first winning ride on the Olive trained Chirurgo Dame in 2010.  He talks of a long and happy association with the Canberra trainer. Bill was on the team during Nick’s association with classy mare Single Gaze. He never rode Single Gaze in a race, but was her regular partner in trials and trackwork.  He says the stable staff were wildly excited when Single Gaze ran second in a Caulfield Cup and progressed to the Melbourne Cup of 2017. Billy talks of Voice Commander, the horse he rates as the best he’s ridden in a race. He looks back on the decision to quit the professional ranks when his weight got out of control. Bill has fond memories of his five years on the picnic circuit and a win in the famous Bong Bong Cup. The jockey has never forgotten the morning he became aware that a return to the professional ranks was a possibility. Bill says he took a much more professional approach on the comeback trail. He’s never forgotten Nick Olive’s gesture in finding the right horse to re-launch his career. Towards the end of 2018 Billy was tickled pink when Sydney trainer John O’Shea sought his services for a horse called Dawn Raid. He fondly remembers his first Saturday metro win on Junglized for trainer Brad Widdup. Bill hasn’t forgotten his first metropolitan double- a brace of wins at Warwick Farm for John O’Shea and Gerald Ryan.   He talks of the two jockeys he most admired as he was coming through the ranks. Bill pays tribute to partner Kia, daughter of prominent trainer Doug Gorrel. His regular riding weight of 57kgs is achievable only by adherence to a strict regime. Bill acknowledges the support of a handful of southern trainers. It’s a laid back chat with a very popular southern districts jockey. 

I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Lacey Morrison but I’ve been long aware of her notable  achievements. This resilient 40 year old has had a diversified career in the racing industry as a jockey, a trainer and a two year stint as a member of the Darling Downs steward’s panel. Lacey’s comeback from injury in 2021 has far exceeded her expectations. In the recently concluded 2023/2024 season she rode 101 winners to finish fourth on the Queensland jockey’s premiership ladder. She also happens to be the doting mother of nine year old Buddy. Lacey Morrison says she’s happiest when busy. The jockey talks about her good start to the new season and a recent Cluden Park treble. Lacey says she was elated to top the century of winners last season. She looks back on a quartet of wins at Townsville late in the season and her all time top score of five at a Cairns meeting. The Cairns Amateur Cup is actually a prestigious professional event run in September. Lacey talks about her recent win on Cashin’ Chex. The busy jockey talks about life in Tolga on the tablelands south west of Cairns.  She takes us through the racing circuit she supports week to week. Lacey says it takes the offer of a very good ride to get her as far away as Mackay. The talented jockey looks back at childhood days at Taroom and Springsure when riding horses was a way of life. She talks of an original apprenticeship to her father John followed by her transfer to Toowoomba trainer Russell Kirwin. Lacey recalls her uneventful debut at Springsure and that thrilling first win at Bundaberg for the Gollan stable. She says Proudly Agro was the first nice horse she got to ride. She won a metro Gr 3 on the horse. The true blue Queenslander looks back on a very successful apprenticeship with special mention of a mare called Charlotte Sound who provided her 60th metropolitan win and the end of her claiming days.  In 2003 a burgeoning reputation saw Lacey invited to spend three months with Sydney trainer Clarry Conners. Despite a battle with homesickness she won a handful of races including one memorable Randwick victory on Sadarar for trainer Paul Cave. Lacey was pretty chuffed when offered a ride in the Ramornie Hcp at Grafton in 2006. She was even more chuffed when For Valour stormed home to win the historic sprint. She pays tribute to Legal Brief who gave her a prestigious Cups double in Queensland. Lacey remembers the horrific four horse fall at Ipswich which sidelined her for ten months. This was the time she decided to try her hand as a steward. She talks of her successful comeback and the disappointment of a second Ipswich fall in 2013. Lacey got over that one fairly quickly but wasn’t keen to return to race riding. She decided to accept an offer to take over the stables of Toowoomba trainer John Dann. She enjoyed her time as a professional trainer. She talks of son Buddy’s premature arrival in 2015. Lacey was working for a local produce store when asked to ride some trackwork by Tolga trainer and good friend Sharlee Hoffman. Predictably the bug bit again. When she decided to don the silks again in 2021 stewards demanded a rigorous barrier trial schedule. Lacey’s versatility knows no bounds. She’s currently juggling her many race riding commitments with an online Tafe nursing course. This will be her long term future. She says when it comes to her eventual retirement from race riding, partner Taron leaves it entirely up to her. Great to catch up at last with a multi talented Queensland racing achiever.

I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing Darren Beadman many times but not so much in recent years. Spotted him at Graham McNeice’s recent funeral service, and it occurred to me that “Shadow” would have insisted I feature the former star jockey on this podcast.  Darren’s a busy boy these days in his role as Race Day Operations Manager for Godolphin, with little time to spare. We pinned him down last Friday after he’d completed duties at the Rosehill barrier trials. It’s just a relaxed chat between two old racing mates. Darren talks about the importance of official trials in the Godolphin operation. He explains that communication with race day media has become a significant part of his role with Godolphin. Darren says he’s got a bigger advantage than most when listening to post race reports from the many jockeys used by Godolphin. He reflects on the horrific Hong Kong accident that terminated his stellar riding career. Darren outlines the complexities of his diffuse axonal brain injury and the subsequent rehabilitation period.  He names the best horse he got to ride during his time in Hong Kong. The celebrated jockey takes us back to childhood days in Canberra and his earliest association with horses. He reflects on his good fortune in having the opportunity to learn his trade under the legendary Theo Green. Darren talks about an early apprentice’s premiership win and his first Gr 1 success- A Golden Slipper on Inspired for his boss. He remembers another Slipper win 13 years later on Guineas. The 58 year old remembers his relocation to France as a 19 year old. Despite ongoing homesickness, he managed to win 50 races including the Gr 1 Prix Morny at Deauville.  Darren takes us through the remarkable story of his Melbourne Cup win on Kingston Rule in 1990. The royally bred stayer carried the Kingston Town colours and elevated his fresh faced young jockey to racing’s biggest stage. This man was privileged to ride some of the greatest horses of his generation. He talks with great affection about Saintly, known colloquially as “the horse from heaven”. Predictably he lights up when asked to pay tribute to the amazing Octagonal. Darren pays an even bigger tribute to Octagonal’s son Lonhro. He rates the champion’s two best wins. Another great horse Beadman got to ride was Super Impose. He won seven races on the versatile champion. Darren remembers the 1991 Epsom when Super Impose did the impossible to complete a staggering quartet of Gr 1 mile victories at Randwick. He had  only two rides on the great mare Let’s Elope. One of them resulted in a stunning Australian Cup win. He looks back on his bombshell decision to leave racing at the top of his game to join the Christian Life Centre as a Minister. He recalls his many duties for the church, and his role as a Skychannel presenter. Darren confirms that wife Kim recently began her quest for a PHD in Psychology.  The family man talks of daughters Rachel and Jessica who’ve each provided their parents with a granddaughter. Darren brings us up to date on the current activities of son Mitch who himself rode more than 100 winners in a very brief riding career. I’m embarrassed to confess this is Darren’s first appearance on our podcast. I deserve a severe reprimand.

  If pedigree has any bearing there was always a strong likelihood James Orman would become a jockey. His father Michael showed some talent in a very brief career before increasing weight terminated his aspirations. His mother Caroline Allardyce has been a trainer for forty years, and increased her team numbers when James became her stable apprentice in 2013. Young Orman’s emergence as one of Australia’s best jockeys has been spectacular. He begins by talking about his flying start in the new racing season. James, or Jimmy as he’s popularly known, talks about life on his Nudgee property with Heidi and their children Floyd and Hallie.  The talented jockey talks of childhood days at Forest Hill, his involvement in pony club and a passion for gymnastics. He outlines some highs and lows from his time as a gymnast. Jimmy says riding was second nature to him by the time he elected to become indentured to his trainer/mother. He looks back on his very first race ride at Nanango. He finished third but believes he should have won the race. He remembers his first winning ride on the same track. James says his first metropolitan win was one of the most thrilling of his career. The horse was trained by his mum and won with ease. The jockey says his first three rides in the city were all winners. Jimmy says he’s ridden more winners for Kelly Schweida than he has for any other trainer. He acknowledges Schweida’s unwavering support. He acknowledges the ongoing backing of some of Brisbane’s high profile stables. The twenty seven year old remembers a special deal he made with his mother should she allow him to leave school. He says people are never quite sure what they should call him. He prefers “Jimmy”. James takes us through his impressions of the best horses he’s ridden in recent years with special mention of Niccanova, Prince Of Boom and Far Too Easy. The outstanding jockey looks back on his opportunity to win a stakes race for the powerful Godolphin operation.  Jimmy rates Antino as the best horse he’s ridden to date. After nine Queensland wins on the Gollan trained galloper he was retained for the ride in the black type Tontonan Stakes in Melbourne.  The experience turned out to be a nightmare.  He hopes for an opportunity to get another crack in Melbourne. Orman talks of a surprise invitation from expat Queensland trainer Michael Costa to spend two weeks in Dubai late last year. The experience turned out to be everything that Melbourne wasn’t. He created a huge impression with five wins on one programme. He also rode a winner at Meydan which boasts a spectacular jockey’s room. Jimmy pays tribute to the jockeys who’ve influenced his career. He talks of two debilitating injuries sustained in racing accidents. The star jockey says his weight is fairly stable at 56 kgs provided he observes all the rules. Jimmy hints at a few immediate goals. It’s a nice chat with yet another champion horseman from the sunshine state.

Aaron Bullock has emerged in the last five years as one of Australia’s most consistent jockeys. In the 2022/2023 season his astounding strike rate saw him win the national jockey’s title with 207.5 winners. He’s due to return to the saddle at the end of the month following a two month injury layoff. While he had a little spare time on his hands the father-to-be was happy to talk to us about his meteoric rise in the riding ranks. Aaron says he can’t wait to get cracking again.  He says his weight is under control as he nears a return to the saddle. The heavyweight jockey talks about the Newcastle fall in July which aggravated an old injury. Aaron talks about the impending birth of his first child with wife Amelia (nee Denby). He gives Amelia much of the credit for his continued success. Aaron talks of childhood days in Tumut and his first glimpse of thoroughbreds at the local races. He recalls the family’s move to Singleton and his subsequent apprenticeship to trainer Todd Howlett whose career was just getting under way. Aaron has never forgotten his first serious gallop at Muswellbrook. He says he couldn’t get the hang of it. There was one particular morning when everything fell into place. Young Bullock suddenly felt he was a jockey at last. He remembers his first ride and his initial win. Sadly his enthusiasm didn’t last, and he made the decision to walk away from racing. Fast forward to 2019 when Aaron hit a major hurdle. He remembers a positive test to a banned substance and a six month disqualification. Aaron says his transformation began in the 2019/2020 season. He’s ridden 644 winners since with a national premiership thrown in. He talks about his duel with Queenslander James Orman in the closing weeks of the 2022/2023 season. Aaron says his commitment to clients on provincial and country tracks keeps him away from city meetings. Every now and again he’ll be lured to town to ride a promising horse. Know Thyself is one of those horses. He also gives a thumbs up to English mare Clear Thinking. The jockey acknowledges some of his favourite horses and horsemen. Aaron pays a special tribute to the jockey he most admires. He makes special mention of Amelia’s successful riding career. It’s a laid back chat with an inspirational bloke.    

Many racing people were predicting a bright future for Dylan Gibbons long before he made his debut at Taree in July 2020.  Son of successful jockey Andrew Gibbons,  the lanky youngster had been taken along quietly by his master Kris Lees and was the complete package by the time he was let loose. Dylan hasn’t let his supporters down. In just four seasons of race riding he’s approaching 400 winners including two Gr 1’s. Caught up with the talented young rider last week for a comprehensive chat about his career so far. He talks about four seasons of success he never expected. Dylan talks about the workload of the modern day jockey with special mention of the barrier trial schedule. He talks of partner Nevada and the decision to stay in his hometown of Newcastle. The young jockey talks of his hectic 2023/2024 season and the holiday he was badly in need of. He admits he was late in making a decision to become an apprentice, but says his interest in racing was obsessive.  Dylan reflects on the many days he spent at race meetings where his father had riding commitments. He says he found a way to keep occupied. He talks of his admiration for two Sydney jockeys in particular. He remains very friendly with Tommy Berry and Kerrin McEvoy. At one stage he was acting as valet for both riders. When Andrew Gibbons could see his son was deadly serious about becoming a jockey he took him to a local riding school. Dylan talks about the education he gained in the Kris Lees operation, and talks of his very first day at the races. He hasn’t forgotten the magic of his first winning ride at Coffs Harbour. Dylan looks back on his first metro success and the unforgettable thrill of a Gr 1 win so early in his career. The jockey looks back on his second Gr 1 win. This time the winner was trained by his boss and staunchest supporter. Dylan acknowledges the part Semana has played in his brief career- only two wins but several Group placings. One of them was oh so close! He talks of a Brisbane Cup win for Bjorn Baker and his association with smart sprinter Buenos Noches. Dylan talks of his association with talented horses like Brudenell and Loch Eagle and a four race association with multiple Gr 1 winning mare Montefilia. He talks of brother Ryan and three year old half sister Hayley. Dylan pays tribute to his father’s longevity and the great winning trot the elder Gibbons has been enjoying. He admits it’s a tough road ahead competing against so many top riders on equal terms but says he’s up to the task.

Steve Hart was just 23 years old when he joined the ranks of Sydney’s race photographers in 1983. It didn’t take him long to showcase the flair, the creativity and the energy needed to chase the right shots through a long day at the races. Most importantly he made a million friends along the way. We got Steve to sit still long enough to record a special interview about his life and the career he chose above all others.  He begins by looking back on his final day at the races. The inevitable emotion was put aside until he’d “fired off” his final shot.  Steve says he’s been a stickler throughout his career for an early arrival at the track. He talks of the miles he’d cover getting from point to point on race day. Randwick was the toughest venue. Steve talks of the amazing advances in camera technology. The 64 year old takes us back to his English childhood and the long sea voyage to Australia with his parents and two brothers. He recalls his father John securing a job in the building trade just two days after arriving in Sydney. Steve talks about his time at Manly High School and his burgeoning interest in photography. He talks of his first job in the trades.  The gun photographer remembers with clarity his first trip to a racecourse- a day at Gosford with the family. The die was cast on that fateful day. Steve talks about his application to the AJC for a photographer’s role and the nerve wracking interview with the club’s CEO. He recalls his very first day of operation on a Sydney track and the established photographers he worked alongside. Steve looks back on a couple of casual jobs necessary to supplement his income. He looks back on a couple of dramatic changes to the landscape in the photographic ranks and talks of an enduring friendship with Mark Bradley.  Steve acknowledges the support of one particular journalist in those early days. Of the thousands of finishes he’s photographed over forty years he has a personal favourite. Steve never got to photograph Kingston Town but the champion remains his all time favourite.  The respected professional decided in 1984 to gain accreditation to work through the Victorian spring carnival. He got some unforgettable photos of the champions right through to the Covid pandemic. Steve says he always took three or four cameras to the races, and explained his technique in photographing race finishes. He explains the importance of monitoring camera settings from day to day. Photographers often walk backwards in search of the right shot. Steve has never “bitten the dust” but knows of one who did. The veteran photographer talks of his two children with wife Mary. He pays tribute to Adam and Rachel and gives his only grandchild a special mention. Steve talks of his two favourite achievements without the camera. He talks of his diversion from race day photography. From time to time Steve switches his camera to video mode, and goes on the road to interview some of racing’s best known names.  The Steve Hart story is an inspiring one. The young English lad who came to a new nation and followed his dream.

As a regular watcher of racing from all parts of Australia I’ve heard Tony Wode calling the Townsville meetings many times. I’ve been a fan since I first heard his clear, concise race calls. At last we get around to profiling the career of a man who recently called his 40th Townsville Cup. How he got to where he is today makes for a great story and an even better podcast. Tony begins by talking about his occasional trips away from Townsville when smaller race clubs are stuck for a race caller. He reveals that he also has two brothers who’ve made their marks as broadcasters. Tony says he has more time to study the race form since quitting his local government job a few years ago. He tends to dabble on the punt more than he did through the busiest years. He reflects on childhood days at Southport as one of nine children. He talks of the guidance and inspiration he received from his father Phil. He talks of his dad’s talents as a greyhound trainer.   Tony talks of his entry into journalism with the Townsville Bulletin. He covered many subjects for the broadsheet which was rated at the time as Australia’s leading regional daily.   At this stage of his life Tony’s interest in all three racing codes had become obsessive. He talks of his love of the leading racing publications of the era.   His race calling life began when appointed understudy to local greyhound commentator Richard Cowell. He tried the gallops for the first time at Ingham.   Tony recalls he was just 18 years old when invited to fill in for the  regular Cluden Park caller. He says nerves got the better of him.    He reflects on the creation of the amazing Townsville harness racing venue by Queensland Racing Minister Russ Hinze. Sadly the concept died a natural death.   Tony looks back on his overseas stint in the mid 1980’s. During the trip he formed a deep admiration for a special racehorse.   The 62 year old talks of his return to Australia and the beginning of a relationship with his adored wife Shelley.   Tony talks of his recent coverage of the Townsville Cup- his 40th call of the famous NQ event.   He pays tribute to son Declan, daughter Gabrielle and two grandsons.    Like most north Queensland racing enthusiasts Tony acknowledges the deeds of three time Cup winner Party King.   He talks of two time Townsville Cup winner Namazu. The gelding’s attempt to make it three wins this year went terribly wrong.   Tony pays homage to the best trainers and jockeys of his era.   He pays tribute to his all time favourite, the pony sized Tyzone.   The veteran broadcaster says he’s had opportunities to work in other places, but was always reluctant to leave the famous coastal city.   Tony expresses his admiration for the work of Sky Thoroughbred Central north Queensland correspondent Michael Charge, himself a recent podcast guest.    It was a delight to catch up with a very talented north Queensland media man.

After just 14 years of race riding Don Terry was clearly established as one of the best country based jockeys in Australia. He was approaching 700 winners when involved in a life changing race fall at Grafton. After six months in Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital he settled on the NSW north coast, and began the long road back. His achievements have been extraordinary. It’s a privilege to welcome him as a very special guest on this week’s podcast. Don talks about the way he manages his problems day by day. He says his temper is not as volatile as it once was.  Don talks about the layout of his Lennox Head home. The former outstanding jockey talks about his role as the manager of Brisbane rider Justin Stanley. He proudly describes his curiously named fishing boat. Don acknowledges the support of his loyal fishing mates and talks of the sea miles they travel to find the best location. He talks about some of the fish species they encounter. The resilient Terry enjoys nothing more than driving his car. He talks about a marathon trip to the Riverina recently to visit his elderly mother. He takes us back to childhood days on the family farm and remembers the days when he taught himself to ride. Don talks about his apprenticeship to leading Riverina trainer David Heywood. He shares clear recollections of his first winning ride at Wagga and his initial city win on an amazing old horse. Don talks of his association with Ken Callaughan and pays tribute to some special horses he got to ride for the top trainer. He recalls a Rosehill win on the day of the infamous “flag start” at Rosehill. Don looks back on some important country wins and his two SDRA premiership wins. The former jockey talks of his relocation to northern NSW and the fateful day he rode at the South Grafton Cup meeting. He describes the way the accident unfolded. Don looks back on the aftermath of the fall and his many months in the Princess Alexandra Hospital. He says he was anxious to get back into circulation and talks of his first foray into jockey management. Don remembers the surprise invitation he received to train a couple of horses. He decided to give it a go, and met with immediate success. The ever courageous Terry took part in early trials for a revolutionary concept called “robotic legs”. He takes us through the procedure involved and the side effects he encountered. Don pays tribute to daughter Laura Kate and son Lyle who are doing well in their chosen careers. This is an inspiring podcast with a very special bloke.

Kevin Sweeney was one of those ever reliable jockeys who did his job with total dedication for an amazing 46 years. Had it not been for a high spirited horse dumping him at a Nowra meeting in 2015, he may well have pushed on for a bit longer. Kev spent the bulk of his career at Canberra and on southern districts tracks, where he forged strong associations with many stables. Despite a few current health issues the seventy year old pays us the honour of joining the podcast for a good, old fashioned trip down memory lane. Kev begins by revisiting the occasion of his last race ride when he was unceremoniously dumped by a quirky horse. He recalls a winning treble at Wagga just two days earlier. Kevin talks about his move to the far NSW south coast, and the health issues he’s been battling for the last four years. He remains philosophical. The former respected jockey takes us back to childhood days, and the love he received from his single mum and a doting grandfather. He’s never forgotten the day his family took him to Randwick races. He’s happy to admit that his aversion to school brought much grief to his mother Grace. Kevin remembers his apprenticeship to Reg Cook, brother of Bill and uncle of Peter. He shares his memories of the famous Cook family. He remembers his first two wins on a horse trained by Reg Cook. Both wins were at Hawkesbury. Kevin has never forgotten his first city win. His second metropolitan success figured in a little piece of racing history. The  veteran takes us back to Reg Cook’s move to Canberra in the early 70’s. He talks about a switch of stables to Terry Rutzo who would become a staunch supporter. He explains the reasons for his sudden relocation to Wyong at the invitation of local trainer Ron Tilley.  Back in Canberra Kevin forged a great association with trainer Keith Dryden. He believes he rode 220 winners for the Dryden stable. Sweeney reflects on his association with talented Dryden trained mares Coolroom Candidate and Bacchanal Woman. He went to NZ with Bacchanal Woman. He acknowledges another Dryden runner De Lightning Ridge. He won four races on the mare including two in the city.  The dedicated jockey pays rightful homage to the ageless gelding Digger Stakas. He rode the veteran on many occasions, and actually gave him a home in his twilight years. Kevin fondly remembers 13 wins on the consistent Comanche Prince. He talks about his long association with the John Morrisey stable with special mention of an AJC Country Cup win on China Garden.  Kevin remembers another ride on China Garden which landed him in hot water. He was given three months by the stewards for an unsatisfactory ride. Sweeney’s commitment to country racing deprived him of opportunities in feature races. He says he was 49 before he won a decent race.  He looks back on the days when he was the “go-to” jockey for bush trainers who were bringing their horses to Canberra meetings. He tells the story of a win on a plunge horse at Canberra trained by a man destined to reach dizzy heights on the turf. Kevin reflects on his good fortune when it came to injuries. He and partner Michelle were the parents of three boys. He says only one has made a career in racing. The former jockey pays tribute to later partner Libby who’s doing a great job on the Keith Dryden team. Libby is close to commencing a new role in the stable. This is an overdue acknowledgment of a long and distinguished riding career. 

It’s just over three years since Molly Bourke won her first race on Mouse Almighty at Wagga. Another 131 wins have followed, complimented by an SDRA Apprentices Premiership. Molly’s talents were clearly evident when she skilfully nursed $58.00 “pop” Secret Plan over the line at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday. She’s now with John Sargent at Randwick and rode 20 city winners last season. Great to catch up with the little girl from Tumbarumba who has to pinch herself to believe she’s competing successfully in one of the world’s toughest markets. Molly talks about her move to the big smoke just over a year ago. She looks back on her first taste of Sydney racing when she won on bush galloper Zakeriz at Canterbury late in 2022. Molly talks of her first win for new master John O’Shea at Wyong. She acknowledges a recent story about her career by Ray Hickson in the Racing NSW magazine. The apprentice looks back on the shock of her relocation to the bustling city of Sydney. Molly says it’s quite an experience to ride regularly against some of Australia’s best jockeys. She pays tribute to two Sydney female role models. The talented young rider takes us back to childhood days on the farm at Tumbarumba, and her early education on stock horses. She looks back on other riding pursuits. She says it was her next door neighbour who alerted her to the excitement of horse racing. Molly remembers her first experience of trackwork and an apprenticeship to local trainer George Dimitropoulos. School wasn’t Molly’s favourite place, but  she did well in one particular subject. Sport was a different matter. She showed plenty of ability in several endeavours. Molly vividly recalls her unimpressive race riding debut at Leeton on Mouse Almighty, and the magic of her first win at Wagga on the same little mare. She looks back on her transfer to a much busier environment at Canberra with trainer Doug Gorrel. Molly talks of the great support she received from another well known Canberra trainer, and the thrill of winning the SDRA junior title. The young jockey takes us through the freakish accident in which she was involved on the way to Albury races with Doug Gorrel. Molly has no doubt the fact that she was asleep in the passenger seat, may have saved her life. She talks about Doug’s serious injury and the sad loss of a promising filly in the accident. Molly gives high praise to a select group of southern districts jockeys who helped her along the way. She makes special mention of valuable tutelage given by former jockey Darryn Murphy of the Skillinvest Employment and Training Company. Molly acknowledges the support of her master John Sargent, and the well known training talents of the expat Kiwi horseman. She was gobsmacked when given the opportunity to ride in this year’s Doncaster. She talks of a few special horses to help her along the way since moving to Randwick. The Tumbarumba product says she’s had to deal with one particular problem in her race riding technique. Molly says she enjoys sneaking back to her old stamping ground from time to time. Her mother Jacqie lives at Bega nowadays.  The 21 year old speaks of the downside of living in Sydney with her partner Ed Waters still in Wagga. He expects to join her at the completion of his electrical trades apprenticeship. Molly isn’t a movie buff but there’s one she’s seen many times over. Not surprisingly it’s about a horse. The apprentice expresses her gratitude for having no weight problems. It’s a nice yarn with a most amiable young lady from a tiny town near the Snowy Mountains. Is it any wonder this girl can ride!

Pioneers like Pam O’Neill have taken great pride in watching the enormous progress made by female jockeys in recent years. Wendy Peel is Dubbo based these days but has had several addresses during her first seven years of race riding. The 31 year old is unwaveringly passionate about her chosen career path and travels huge mileage to honour commitments.  She’s already a role model to many of the younger girls coming through the system. Wendy joins us on the podcast to look at the female clean sweep of a recent Inverell meeting, and to look at the future role of women in the Australian riding ranks. She talks of the impact being made around the nation. Wendy believes the generational growth of male jockeys is the main reason for the ever increasing number of female riders. She predicts the likely future of the girls in Australian racing. Wendy says the majority of new apprentices have learned the fundamentals in pony club, eventing and show jumping. The dedicated jockey looks back on her very first involvement with thoroughbreds. She talks of a horse management college course which led her to two overseas adventures. Wendy looks back on an early job on a NZ stud farm. She was asked to ride some trackwork by a local trainer and the die was cast. She reflects on her boldness in asking Gai Waterhouse for a job as a trackwork rider at Randwick. Wendy remembers her first apprenticeship to Peter Robl who supplied her first race ride. The jockey looks back on her transfer to Sue Grills at Tamworth. She still can’t believe her first win was in a Cup race. It didn’t end there. Wendy remembers being one of five riders to crash in a race at Tamworth in 2019. Her injuries were nasty. She was leading the Rising Stars points score at the time. She talks of Cody Morgan’s kindness in giving her a great opportunity in the Gulgong Cup when she returned to the saddle. Next step was a loan out to Nyngan trainer Rodney Robb at the peak of a disastrous drought. She says some of her most memorable achievements materialised during her time with Robb. Wendy talks of her transfer to Paul Butterworth in Brisbane. It was Butterworth who supplied her first metropolitan winner. She talks of the broken hip sustained in a Deagon jump out, just 18 months after her Tamworth “buster”. The respected rider remembers a win in the Battle Of The Bush Final at Eagle Farm on Rather Salubrious. The opportunity was the result of great loyalty shown by trainer David Reynolds. Wendy talks of the enormous goal she set herself in August 2020. She rode at three race meetings in the space of eight or nine hours. Thankfully a Toowoomba winner made it all worthwhile. She rates Rather Salubrious the best horse she’s ridden but also has praise for Seat Of Power. Wendy speaks highly of jockeys Blake Shinn and Matthew Cahill. She talks of her daily chores at Dubbo which often include a helping hand for partner Duncan Edwards, a well known horse breaker. Female jockeys need to be dedicated to make their way in an unforgiving business. They don’t make them any more dedicated than Wendy Peel.

It was Coffs Harbour based jockey Jon Grisedale who alerted me to the fact that Trevor Hardy was getting close to retirement. The veteran horseman will call time on his 50 year career when his only horse, seven year old gelding Aheadofhistime loses his zest for racing. For twenty years Trevor combined horse training with the running of his small transport business, but had to choose between the two following multiple bypass surgery in 1996. He plumped for full time training, and hasn’t regretted the decision. The 83 year old joins us on the podcast to talk about his life in racing. He’s a little nervous about the dramatic change in lifestyle. Trevor says Aheadofhistime has extended his training career.  He talks about Aheadofhistime’s early career in Queensland and subsequent deeds on the northern rivers, including an emphatic win in last year’s Kempsey Cup. Trevor acknowledges the support of Neil Osborne who purchased his Coffs Harbour stables but made a box available for Aheadofhistime. The veteran is a true north coaster. He was born at Wingham in 1940, but moved to a Coffs Harbour farm with his parents at age 3. He remembers those early days on the farm. He talks of his introduction to horses at local pony club and a subsequent involvement in the rodeo. He sustained one nasty injury. Trevor talks of his first venture into the trucking business and the purchase of his lucerne farm at Tamworth. He ran that farm for a decade. Finally it was back to Coffs and the establishment of another trucking business, this time delivering smallgoods to supermarkets and restaurants. He trained a few horses at the same time. Trevor talks about two uncles Ron and Bob Gosling, both successful trainers in their own right. He remembers his very first win with Poplar Prince at Coffs in 1976 and Sunny Regent, the first nice horse to enter his stable.  Trevor pays tribute to Jack Howe, his first major client. Jack owned a Hunter Valley stud farm where he stood former top stayer Passetruel. Trevor went on to train many of the stallion’s progeny. The trainer talks of the heart condition that gave him a massive wake up call in the mid 90’s. Major surgery was required. Trevor talks of the early history of the Coffs Harbour Cup and its huge prize money boost in 1971. He profiles some of the best horses he’s had the pleasure to train over the years. At the top of his list is Elite Ted, winner of 13 races including 9 in Brisbane. Trevor acknowledges the deeds of Johann Lover, Symposium, Elite Score, Elite Dubleo, and several others. He looks back on the timely arrival of Glen Colless into his care at a time when he was juggling two jobs.  Trevor pays a heartfelt tribute to the Coffs Harbour born jockey who went on to great success in Queensland.  The trainer looks back on the arrival of his next star apprentice. Zac Purton weighed 33 kgs and had to start from scratch. Trevor says his late wife Trish not only mothered the tiny apprentice but acted as his manager when Zac became a jockey. Trevor and Zac caught up in Hong Kong a couple of years ago. He pays tribute to daughter Joanne whose training achievements include a Country Classic win at Rosehill in 2021. Trevor talks of the five Asian apprentices to spend time in his care a few years ago.  He makes special mention of partner Wendy Howe, a long time massage therapist whose patients won’t let her retire. It’s a great pleasure to acknowledge the achievements of a highly respected country trainer.