Episode 207: Tappy chats with John O'Shea

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - John O’Shea at the Scone Cup Carnival 2015.

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - John O’Shea at the Scone Cup Carnival 2015.

John talks of the tough road back as an independent trainer after three years heading up the powerful Godolphin operation.

He reflects on his feelings when the Godolphin job was offered to him, and the reaction of his family.

John reminisces about a quick dash to Dubai to officially meet Sheikh Mohammed.

Of the hundreds of horses to pass through his hands in the Godolphin days he was smitten by the remarkable Hartnell. He remembers a great horse.

John recalls the moment he knew it was time to leave Godolphin.

The trainer recalls his early life in Cairns and his love of Rugby League and Polocrosse.

He talks of a University Degree which few people know about.

John reflects on the day he literally walked in off the street and asked Gai Waterhouse for a job.

He remembers his time with Bart Cummings and Gary Moore.

John recalls his low key start at Warwick Farm and the tried horses who got him going.

He looks back with affection on the talented horses who’ve helped shape his career.

John comments on his admiration for a couple of high profile jockeys.

Finally the talented horseman pays tribute to the Canadian girl who was happy to relocate to Australia and marry a budding horse trainer.

(Banner image courtesy Bradley Photographers - John with talented young jockey Sam Clipperton)

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - Don’t know who had the biggest grin after Racing To Win’s 2006 Doncaster - John or Bossy.

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - Don’t know who had the biggest grin after Racing To Win’s 2006 Doncaster - John or Bossy.

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - There was a time when horse trainers wore a hat as a matter of course. John only resorts to headwear on a hot day.

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - There was a time when horse trainers wore a hat as a matter of course. John only resorts to headwear on a hot day.

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - John O’Shea won five Group 1’s with Racing To Win. Glen Boss drives him to the lead from Bentley Biscuit and Johan’s Toy in the 2006 Doncaster.

Image courtesy Bradley Photographers - John O’Shea won five Group 1’s with Racing To Win. Glen Boss drives him to the lead from Bentley Biscuit and Johan’s Toy in the 2006 Doncaster.