John Tapp Racing

I’ve had several requests for a podcast with Kevin Langby. Rather than try to explain he was on the show two years ago, let’s put him on again. Nothing’s changed. He’s still fighting fit on the Central Coast and still looking back on one of Sydney racing’s most distinguished careers. Kev begins by looking back on his initial apprenticeship to Max Wardle and a transfer to Dick Cornish- both in his hometown of Orange. Kev remembers his father’s insistence that he transfer to a Sydney trainer. He was lucky to gain a start with the astute Fred Hood Snr, firstly at Mascot and later at Rosehill. He recalls some early winners and the first good horse he got to ride. The former jockey reflects on his time as stable jockey for Arthur Ward and a retainer he was offered by Sir Frank Packer. Kevin says his association with Tommy Smith just “happened”. Not once did the legendary trainer verbally confirm the arrangement. He talks of Smith’s attitude towards his stable riders, and his acceptance of defeat. The 76 year old l