Episode 324: Brendan Ward

TAB punters who fancy a flutter on NSW southern meetings are familiar with the riding of Brendan Ward. The Victorian born jockey had 700 winners on his CV when he moved to Canberra twenty years ago. He’s since added another 820. Brendan talks about his involvement in Canberra trackwork. He talks of the endless travelling country jockeys have to endure in the modern age. Brendan talks of his lifelong addiction to exercise and training. He talks of childhood days in Melbourne and the work experience stint with a legendary trainer of the 1980’s. He eventually became apprenticed to Geoff Murphy. Brendan recalls his first winning ride at Terang. He talks of fellow apprentices in the Murphy stable and his association with a top horse of the era. The jockey reflects on the tuition he received from a couple of ace jockeys of the day. Brendan looks back on two “loan out” experiences with other trainers- one in Wodonga and the other in Adelaide. He remembers a quirky horse he was associated with at Ollie Cox’s Wodonga stables, and the friendship he forged with Benalla jockey Peter Robl. Brendan outlines the reason for his move to Canberra and the wonderful run he enjoyed in the first few years. He talks of the two serious accidents that slowed his momentum for many months. Country commitments have kept him away from Sydney tracks over the years, but he reflects on a few highlights in the big smoke.  Brendan acknowledges the talents of the Canberra sprinter he regards as the best horse he’s ever ridden in a race. He makes special mention of the trainers to give him continued support. Great to catch up with a hard working, dedicated and super fit country jockey.