John Tapp Racing

Queensland has long been regarded as a nursery for budding champion jockeys. Prime examples are George Moore and Neville Sellwood who both rode English Derby winners in addition to their stellar Australian careers. Dalby born Garnet Bougoure also left his mark in England with victories in a 1000 Guineas, St. Leger and Epsom Oaks. Graham Cook’s only overseas experience was a successful stint in Singapore where he notched a Gr 1 win. At home in Queensland he compiled a stellar record. We’re delighted to have his company on this week’s podcast, and I’m pleased to say the 82 year old has forgotten nothing. Graham takes us back to the day in 1993 when he realised it was game over.  He rekindles memories of his father Frank, a capable jockey whose career embraced two separate phases. Although only five years old at the time, Graham has vivid memories of Frank Cook’s Doomben Cup win on Forge in 1948. He watched the race from an unlikely vantage point. The former star jockey talks of his father’s premature passing. H