Episode 557: John Berger - 91 year old former bush trainer takes us back to a great era in northern NSW country racing
John Berger was never far from his horses on race days. Here he is with Oh Why at the Talmoi picnics.
My thanks to Luke Berger who suggested we should take a trip down memory lane with his grandfather John, who’s remembered as one of the best country trainers of his generation. The veteran was in his early 80’s when he relinquished his licence in 2014, but spent another five years helping out on the ground for grandson Luke. John had no special ambition when he began his training career in the late 70’s. He simply loved horses and knew there was nothing else he wanted to do. Over the next three and a half decades John Berger became a trainer of great repute in northern NSW. John says he continues to enjoy reasonably good health.
He talks of the special anniversary he and wife Val celebrated recently.
John talks of his retirement from the training ranks and an enjoyable five years assisting grandson Luke.
The veteran takes a keen interest in Luke’s current role as a racehorse owner’s group manager.
John says he’d never been on a horse’s back at the time he walked into the stables of Glen Innes trainer Reg Madgewick in the 1950’s.
He looks back on Madgewick’s talents as a horseman.
John reflects on a long period away from horses and a move to Sydney with his young family in search of job opportunities. He stayed for seventeen years.
The former trainer remembers his move back to the country and a sapphire mining venture with brother Tony.
John recalls the acquisition of his trainer’s licence and the thrill of his first win at Bingara.
The respected horseman shares his memories of the handy bush horses he got to train over more than three decades, with special mention of his all-time favourite Main Supply.
John looks back on the methods he preferred to use in the training of thoroughbreds.
The veteran pays tribute to the country trainers and jockeys he most admired.
He looks back on the many bush race clubs he supported over the years.
You rarely get to talk to horsemen of John’s generation. It was a pleasure to have him on our podcast.
John talks tactics with Brooke Stower at Warwick in Queensland.
John gives 3yo filly Cathvalanna some attention in the tie-up stalls.
John with grandson Luke who’s wearing the Glen Innes Magpie colours. John played for the same club many years before.
The smooth actioned Main Supply wins the Inverell Digger’s Cup with Scott Seamer on board.
Another of Main Supply’s 27 wins - the Moree Sires Stakes with Ian Toward in the saddle.
Back to scale after the Digger’s Cup.
John with Zod after an Inverell win on Boxing Day 2009.
