Episode 259: John Scorse

Great to catch up with John Scorse who is now a familiar member of the Sky team as he covers meetings on twelve tracks in the South East and Southern Districts. He talks of his relationship with the local jockeys and trainers. John explains that the sad passing of race caller and form analyst Tony Campbell led him to his long time role. He acknowledges the contribution of his co presenter Chynna Marston, a former jockey and devoted horse lover. John takes us back to childhood days and the inspiration he received from older brother Alan “Groovy” Scorse who was one of Sydney’s best apprentices. He pays tribute to Alan’s achievements as a jockey and trainer. He looks back on his initial apprenticeship to Jack Denham when he was one of an army of junior riders. John reflects on his multifaceted indentureship. Denham was one of five trainers with whom young “Scorsy” spent time. He remembers his first win and his initial city success. John talks of his big decision to go all the way to Perth for a stable retainer with Wally Mitchell. That fortuitous move led him to the best horse he ever rode- the horse to give him a famous Victorian sprint treble. He acknowledges another Gr 1 win on Western Pago, also a member of the Mitchell team. John talks of his wonderful ten year association with trainer Barbara Joseph and a special mare called Ain’t Seen Nothin’. He reflects on his realisation of a “tipper’s dream”- to pick the card at a Canberra meeting a few years ago. John brings us up to date with the progress of his jockey son Patrick who battles weight but has the lion’s share of talent.