Phar Lap

Australian thoroughbred racehorse who became a national icon during the Great Depression, winning 37 of 51 races including the 1930 Melbourne Cup.

Born on January 1, 1926, at Seadown Stud near Timaru, New Zealand, this chestnut gelding was initially an unremarkable prospect. Bred by Alick Roberts and sired by Night Raid out of Entreaty, he was purchased as a yearling by Sydney trainer Harry Telford for just 160 guineas. The horse's early development in Australia proved challenging, as his gangly frame and awkward gait initially masked his extraordinary potential. Under Telford's patient guidance and the skilled hands of jockey Jim Pike, Phar Lap's racing career began modestly in 1928 but quickly accelerated into dominance. His breakthrough came during the 1929 racing season when he established himself as Australia's premier thoroughbred. The gelding's imposing physical presence—standing over 17 hands—combined with an exceptional racing temperament made him virtually unbeatable at his peak. His partnership with Pike became legendary, with the jockey's tactical brilliance perfectly complementing the horse's raw ability. Phar Lap's statistical achievements remain extraordinary: 37 victories from 51 career starts, including the coveted 1930 Melbourne Cup where he carried 9 stone 12 pounds to victory. He won the Cox Plate twice, claimed 14 weight-for-age victories, and set multiple track records across Australia. His earnings of over £66,000 made him the highest prize-winning horse in the Southern Hemisphere at that time. The gelding's dominance was so complete that bookmakers often refused to accept bets on his races. During the Great Depression, Phar Lap transcended sport to become a symbol of resilience and hope for both Australia and New Zealand. His mysterious death at Menlo Park, California, on April 5, 1932—just days after winning North America's richest race, the Agua Caliente Handicap in Mexico—shocked both nations. Modern forensic analysis suggests arsenic poisoning, though the circumstances remain disputed. Today, Phar Lap's preserved heart, hide, and skeleton are displayed in three separate museums across Australia and New Zealand, testament to his enduring cultural significance and status as Australasia's greatest racehorse.

Powerful stayer with exceptional stamina and determination

Australia's most famous racehorse, national icon and symbol of hope during Great Depression

• Melbourne Cup Winner 1930
• Cox Plate Winner 1930
• Cox Plate Winner 1931
• AJC Derby Winner 1929
• Victoria Derby Winner 1929
• AJC St Leger Winner 1930
• Champion Stakes Winner 1931
• Agua Caliente Handicap Winner 1932
• Rosehill Guineas Winner 1929
• AJC Plate Winner 1930
• W S Cox Plate Winner 1929
• Chelmsford Stakes Winner 1929
• St George Stakes Winner 1931