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.

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.

Whenever Ken Callaughan brought a horse to town from his country base, bookies were wary and punters had a very good look at the animal’s credentials. Ken’s success rate on metropolitan tracks was consistent over many years. We gave him a call recently and the veteran horseman accepted our invitation to join us on the podcast. Ken talks about the horse transport business he launched after quitting the training ranks.  He says much of his work is generated by Goulburn trainers who like to run horses in the weekly TAB Highway races. Ken talks about his early years in the tiny village of Delegate near the Victorian border. He says his father George was a tough taskmaster when giving his son riding tuition. Ken pays tribute to his late brother Brian. He looks back on his first trip to an Inglis Tried Horse Sale. He came away with the unraced gelding who would launch his training career. Ken acknowledges some of his very early winners. He remembers Stormy Guest who was showing great promise before he suffered a career ending injury in a track gallop. At this point of the interview Ken pays a heartfelt tribute to former outstanding jockey Don Terry whose career was terminated by a Grafton race fall more than twenty years ago. They are still in regular contact. The former trainer looks back on his years at Capricorn Park, a 500 acre property near Canberra from which he trained many winners. All of his trackwork was done at home. For many years Ken combined horse training with the breaking of yearlings. One of his regular clients was owner/breeder Sandy Tait. He talks of the Nassipour colt who gave him many a headache during the breaking in process. He acknowledges the talents of some of the best horses he got to train in a forty year career. Ken talks of the well known horsemen to come through the system at Capricorn Park. He says wife Margaret was an outstanding trackwork rider in the early days of his training career. He makes special mention of daughter Fiona and son Peter. Fiona does most of the driving in his transport business. A special group of country horse trainers have gained legendary status in NSW racing. Ken Callaughan is one of them.

Joe Bowditch has been a familiar face on major Australian racetracks for more than 34 years. He’s still plying his trade from a Victorian base at 47 years of age, and still riding winners. The evergreen jockey has crammed a lot into more than three decades of race riding in four states. The Joe Bowditch story makes for an interesting podcast. Currently under suspension,   he was happy to give me some time on the phone last weekend. He spoke to me from a Bundalong property owned by his great mate Luke Nolen. Joe talks about his recent Flemington win on Brazen Lady and acknowledges the support he receives from the Ellerton/Moodie stable. He talks of a long and successful association he’s had with another Cranbourne trainer Robbie Griffiths.  Joe descends from a famous Riverina racing family. He shares memories of his father Des and uncles Barry and Wally- all accomplished jockeys. He remembers a wonderful friendship with trainer Ray Guy who was to have signed him up as an apprentice. When Ray died suddenly in 1992, his son Bryan became Joe’s master. Joe recalls having been All Our Mob’s strapper when he won at Rosehill the day after Ray’s passing. The jockey recalls travelling to Mudgee to ride his first winner thirty one years ago. He looks back on his first couple of metropolitan winners.  Joe talks about a loan-out to the famous Lindsay Park operation in SA. Colin Hayes had retired but still had a presence. He talks of the quality of horseflesh he got to work with including a Melbourne Cup winner. Joe reflects on his working relationship with both David and Peter Hayes. Peter’s death in a light plane crash impacted the entire staff at Lindsay Park. He remembers two star apprentices who came through the system during his time at the famous Angaston operation.  The jockey comments on the fact that the bulk of his career winners have been on the Morphettville track. Joe looks back on his first Gr 1 success in 2004. He had to change his tactics when the pace slowed suddenly in the middle stages of the SA Derby. He’s ridden better horses than  Conservatorium but says the genuine gelding remains his all time favourite. He talks about his narrow defeat on a future multiple Gr 1 winner in the 1996 Fulham Park Plate. Joe’s had his share of nasty falls. He talks about a crash at Morphettville in 2000 that left him with a long list of injuries. He looks back on an association with On A Jeune in 2004. He won a Cranbourne Cup on the gelding and went on to ride him in the Melbourne Cup of the same year. Joe looks back on a brief stint at Corowa as stable rider for the legendary Riverina trainer Richard Freyer. He talks of a surprise phone call from his former master Bryan Guy- a call that led him to a six year stay in Queensland. Joe reviews the highs and lows of that Queensland sojourn- some major wins and one serious race fall. The veteran jockey delights in talking about his association with the brilliant mare Viddora, the highlight of his long association with trainer Lloyd Kennewell. Joe summarises Viddora’s wins in the Moir Stakes and Winterbottom Stakes. He says she was unlucky not to have added another Moir Stakes to her CV. He talks of exciting trips to Dubai and Hong Kong with the daughter of I Am Invincible. Joe finished among the tailenders on Viddora in the 2018 Everest, but won’t forget the experience. He closes by paying tribute to wife Jen and his four children from two marriages- Heidi (21), Callam (19) and the dynamic duo (Jake 5) and Frankie (3). Great to catch up with a long serving and thoroughly dedicated professional jockey.

Great to catch up with respected Dubbo trainer Peter Nestor who’s back in town training a small team of horses after a four year break from racing. A member of a legendary western districts racing family, Peter takes us back to his early days in the unique township of Gulargambone, and the family’s move to Dubbo. He talks of the serious heart ailment that stopped him in his tracks early last year. Peter admits he knew something was amiss for many months. He places most of the blame on a lifelong smoking habit. He says he really wasn’t intending to train horses again, but the bug soon bit. Peter talks of Loving Angel, the former Snowden trained mare who got him up and going again. He says she’s got a few quirks. He talks of Blue Guitar, another “hand me down” who’s been impressive in winning a couple of recent races.  The trainer speaks highly of lightly raced filly Grand Oyster, a recent winner at Narromine. Pete’s adamant that he won’t be increasing the size of his team. He pays tribute to his late father John, a former outstanding bush jockey and a successful trucking operator in later life.  The sixty five year old talks of brother Michael, a former successful jockey and current Dubbo businessman. He talks of Michael’s love of a bet. Peter says his only sister Wendy has enjoyed some luck as an owner. He speaks admiringly of nephew Kody Nestor who’s enjoyed great success in the saddle and the training ranks. He’s currently getting over surgery for an old injury. Peter talks of Kody’s retirement from the training ranks two years ago, and a return to race riding. The trainer speaks glowingly of his former apprentice Kathy O’Hara who has three Gr1 wins on her CV. He says Kathy was going to succeed from the day she walked into the stable. The NSW western districts has produced many outstanding jockeys. Peter pays tribute to the riders he’s most admired over a long period of years. He looks back on a challenging move to Sydney in the early 1990’s and talks of the Rosehill stables he occupied for several years. Peter says Shiraz was almost certainly the best horse he’s trained. He recommended the horse should be sent to Sydney after a sequence of impressive country wins. He talks of Izababe, winner of eleven races including two country Cups. He says the horse was desperately unlucky not to win a Scone Cup. The trainer speaks with great affection of a pony sized mare called Aulone Star.  He remembers the deeds of Miss Alberta who was hampered by a suspect tendon for much of her career. Peter pays a fitting tribute to his wife Nancy, son Michael, daughter Amanda and six grandchildren. It’s an enjoyable chat with a very laid back bush horseman.

Michael Charge’s passion for racing was evident to viewers the first time he appeared on Sky Thoroughbred Central. He successfully combines that passion with an in depth knowledge of north Queensland form to help punters identify winners on many tracks in the region. Caught up with the man recently to find out how it all started. Michael remembers his late mum’s frustration when her son preferred Best Bets, Sportsman and Winning Post to school books. He talks about the vast mileage he travels to cover race meetings for Sky. Early days he would drive 700 kms to Rockhampton. That’s no longer the case. Michael talks about his trackside presentations from a wide range of Queensland tracks- 26 so far with a total of 110 meetings all up. It’s interesting to hear that he’s careful not to over complicate things when analysing form. Michael’s a little different to many form students in that he tends to ignore the market until arriving at a conclusion. He believes pre-post markets can influence a tipster’s thinking. He talks of historic Norfolk Island- the place of his birth. He’ll be returning soon for a special occasion. Michael talks of a relocation to Bundaberg where his parents bought a newsagency. His late father introduced him to the magic of the turf. He remembers tipping horses to people at age 8 or 9. The Sky host looks back on three special horses whose racing styles fired his interest. Michael talks of an enduring friendship with Bundaberg horse trainer Tina Cotsiopolous. He looks back on an early involvement in the Travel Agency business. Michael talks of his induction to the Bundaberg Race Club committee at just 21 years of age. Five years later he was honoured to be elected President.  The racing devotee talks of a move to Brisbane when an offer came from Peter Harney’s Ambassador Travel operation.  During that time he negotiated sponsorship deals with the Townsville Turf Club whose CEO James Heddo decided to accept a role with the Bendigo Jockey Club. Michael bit the bullet and applied for the job. Michael talks of his marriage to Danielle and the subsequent arrival of daughter Lucy and son Lachlan. He says a massive track upgrade at Cluden Park was the highlight of his time with the Townsville Turf Club. Michael pays tribute to Party King, winner of three consecutive Townsville Cups. The third leg of the trilogy generated enormous crowd involvement. Michael still can’t believe he’s one of a chosen few tipsters to come up with a 100/1 winner. It’s a good story. He acknowledges the talents of some special north Queensland horses in recent years. Michael pays tribute to his favourite jockeys and trainers. He makes special mention of Frank Edwards who’s still riding winners in his sixtieth year. Lacey Morrison rates high praise. Michael acknowledges the talents of his great friend, ace race caller Tony Wode. He talks of a recent meeting with an old school friend at Rockhampton’s Archer meeting. That friend, now a member of the Priesthood, reminded Michael of his foray into illegal bookmaking on the 1993 Melbourne Cup. Michael concludes with heartfelt praise for partner Tina. It’s a laid back chat with a rising 50 year old whose career path was set in stone at a very early age.

In the late 1990’s Jarrod Austin walked away from racing to investigate what other career options were available in the world. He tried the hotel industry and dabbled in the building trade, but soon realised there was one key component missing. He’d been around horses all his life, and found he simply couldn’t break the bond. The story of his path back into the racing industry makes for a good podcast. We pinned Jarrod down recently and got him reminiscing about a horsey life that began on his father’s little Tamworth stud farm. The Warwick Farm trainer gives his assurance he won’t be leaving the industry again. Jarrod explains his team currently numbers 22 horses but says  two or three more would  be more than welcome in his Bull St stables at Warwick Farm. He pays tribute to his dedicated stable staff of seven. Jarrod explains why he recently made the decision to quit riding trackwork. The trainer talks at length about his stable star Terra Mater, one of the Inglis Digital “finds” of the past year. Purchased by stable client Gary Carden from a Widden Stud weanling dispersal for a mere $1750, Terra Mater has already banked $366,000 from six wins and six placings. The story is a fascinating one. Jarrod takes us through her racing career from her very first start at Wyong when she ran into a maiden who’s currently sitting on $640,000 in prize  money. She ran into some hot opposition before she finally cracked it for a win. The trainer looks back on his decision to walk away from racing in the mid 1990’s. He soon regretted that call. He was working as a concreter near Camden when he heard that a manager’s job was coming up at a nearby spelling and pre-training farm. He got the job and it was the perfect transition back into training. Jarrod talks of his happy six years at the property owned by trainer Denise McGrath. He helped in the preparation of several McGrath horses including the talented Keen Commander, who missed out narrowly in the 2008 Galaxy. He looks back on Denise McGrath’s decision to leave the training ranks giving him the opportunity to take over the Warwick Farm stables. Jarrod says he was able to get away to a flying start with three horses entrusted to his care by the retiring trainer. He actually won with his very first starter on the comeback trail. He acknowledges the talents of four time city winner Territory. Jarrod talks about a couple of veteran geldings he was able to keep going seemingly past their “use by” date. They just kept winning. Jarrod talks about his discovery of Rachel King in the days when the English girl was apprenticed to Gai Waterhouse. He was keen  to provide her first city winner but was beaten to the punch by another trainer. Austin looks back on Inanup who was a work in progress from the day he walked into the stable. He finished up winning eight races including five in town, largely due to the patience and skill of his trainer. You can hear the admiration in Jarrod’s voice as he pays tribute to recently retired Looks Like Elvis. He slipped the gelding to Victoria on two occasions and got the money both times. Jarrod pays tribute to a couple of his favourite “go-to” jockeys. The trainer gives encouraging pointers to a couple of promising horses currently coming through the grades. Jarrod Austin is one of many talented trainers who simply does his best with what he’s got. His best is of a very high level. Great to have him on our podcast.

Brian York hasn’t wasted a single minute from the day he became aware that his riding days were over. He tried everything known to medical science to overcome a knee injury sustained in a freakish fall at Rosehill in November 2002, but to no avail.The former star jockey joins us on the podcast this week to talk about his very busy and rewarding life after racing. Brian begins  by talking about a five year association with the Waterhouse/Bott stable producing videos of trackwork and jump outs for stable clients. He says border closures during the pandemic brought his business to an end. He talks about the challenge of learning a brand new craft. Brian looks back on his family’s emigration from Scotland to New Zealand. He was just ten years of age. The budding champion jockey was elated to gain an apprenticeship with respected Takanini trainer Cliff Fenwick. He recalls the thrilling occasion of his first win in March 1979 on a handy mare trained by his master. Brian looks back on the first of his 35 Gr 1 victories. He talks about successful stints in Singapore and Malaysia before accepting an offer to move permanently to Australia.  Brian clearly recalls the offer made by the late Bruce McLachlan who was looking for the right jockey to join the team at his lavish Caboolture training property. He describes the unique lay out of Thornhill Park. The former champion jockey pays a heartfelt tribute to the man who won 16 Brisbane training premierships. He believes no trainer/jockey partnership has ever been more harmonious. Brian acknowledges the talents of the special horses he rode during his time with the former Mt. Isa policeman. He reflects on six consecutive wins on the brilliant New Zealander Our Maizcay. When connections decided to run Our Maizcay in the Cox Plate with only 48.5 kgs Brian’s initial reaction was to relinquish the ride. He decided to give it a crack and turned up at the right weight on the day. His enormous sacrifice was to be all in vain. He looks back on a happy association with the powerhouse sprinter General Nediym.  Brian has fond memories of his very first ride on Filante- a stunning four lengths victory in the 1996 Epsom. He looks back on a very successful association with the Gai Waterhouse stable. Brian pays tribute to the well documented talents of trainer John Size. He regrets never having won a Golden Slipper. Circumstances kept him off three winners of the iconic two year old race. Brian won seven races on champion Might And Power including three memorable Gr 1’s. He looks back on a thrilling association with a unique horse. Might And Power’s trainer Jack Denham also prepared another of Brian’s favourites. The jockey looks back on a nine win streak with the talented Fairway. Brian talks about his association with the enigmatic Jack Denham.  He reflects on the irony of his final day at the races in 2002- a winner for the late Max Lees and a career ending accident just 90 minutes apart. Brian pays a touching tribute to Karen, his wife of 41 years.  It’s a nostalgic chat with one of the best riders of his generation.

Great to catch up with northern NSW riding legend Peter Graham who’s still going strong at 55 years of age and closing in on 2500 career wins. Peter was born and reared at Wauchope and virtually taught himself to ride at the local racecourse. When it was time to launch his professional riding career he chose Port Macquarie as his home base and he’s still there today. Peter begins by talking about younger daughter Rori who’s getting over a nasty trackwork injury. He pays tribute to daughter Cejay, currently one of Brisbane’s in form jockeys. Peter talks of son Jesse who rode a few winners before opting for a change of career direction. He acknowledges the help given by wife Karen at his Port Macquarie training property. He talks of his role as the holder of a dual training and riding licence. Peter looks back on the Wauchope trackwork accident that left him with a condition known as “frozen shoulder”. The veteran says he thought about retirement but decided on a return to race riding when his shoulder injury improved. Peter looks back on early days at Wauchope and his initial apprenticeship to Bob Graham. He says he had no real tutelage in those early days. Eventually he moved to Muswellbrook. The respected horseman reflects on his first win as a 36kg apprentice. He talks of an affinity with the Kempsey track where he’s won 6 local Cups. Peter looks back on an imposing list of feature wins on northern tracks with special mention of his Grafton Cup win on Rednav as recently as 2016. He pays tribute to Rednav’s trainer Sally Taylor. He looks back on several rewarding seasons on NSW tracks. Peter says country commitments have kept him away from city tracks, but recalls one day at Randwick that turned out to be an unpleasant experience. He talks of the ten acre farm at Port Macquarie from which he prepares his small string of horses. The versatile horseman talks about recent track improvements at Port Macquarie racecourse. Peter talks of the immense thrill he received when daughter Cejay rode her first winner for the stable. He discusses the prospects of members of his small team going forward. Peter pays tribute to some of the talented country jockeys with whom he’s ridden over the years. It’s a long overdue tribute to one of the kings of northern NSW racing.