Episode 480: Michael Charge

Michael Charge’s passion for racing was evident to viewers the first time he appeared on Sky Thoroughbred Central. He successfully combines that passion with an in depth knowledge of north Queensland form to help punters identify winners on many tracks in the region. Caught up with the man recently to find out how it all started. Michael remembers his late mum’s frustration when her son preferred Best Bets, Sportsman and Winning Post to school books. He talks about the vast mileage he travels to cover race meetings for Sky. Early days he would drive 700 kms to Rockhampton. That’s no longer the case. Michael talks about his trackside presentations from a wide range of Queensland tracks- 26 so far with a total of 110 meetings all up. It’s interesting to hear that he’s careful not to over complicate things when analysing form. Michael’s a little different to many form students in that he tends to ignore the market until arriving at a conclusion. He believes pre-post markets can influence a tipster’s thinking. He talks of historic Norfolk Island- the place of his birth. He’ll be returning soon for a special occasion. Michael talks of a relocation to Bundaberg where his parents bought a newsagency. His late father introduced him to the magic of the turf. He remembers tipping horses to people at age 8 or 9. The Sky host looks back on three special horses whose racing styles fired his interest. Michael talks of an enduring friendship with Bundaberg horse trainer Tina Cotsiopolous. He looks back on an early involvement in the Travel Agency business. Michael talks of his induction to the Bundaberg Race Club committee at just 21 years of age. Five years later he was honoured to be elected President.  The racing devotee talks of a move to Brisbane when an offer came from Peter Harney’s Ambassador Travel operation.  During that time he negotiated sponsorship deals with the Townsville Turf Club whose CEO James Heddo decided to accept a role with the Bendigo Jockey Club. Michael bit the bullet and applied for the job. Michael talks of his marriage to Danielle and the subsequent arrival of daughter Lucy and son Lachlan. He says a massive track upgrade at Cluden Park was the highlight of his time with the Townsville Turf Club. Michael pays tribute to Party King, winner of three consecutive Townsville Cups. The third leg of the trilogy generated enormous crowd involvement. Michael still can’t believe he’s one of a chosen few tipsters to come up with a 100/1 winner. It’s a good story. He acknowledges the talents of some special north Queensland horses in recent years. Michael pays tribute to his favourite jockeys and trainers. He makes special mention of Frank Edwards who’s still riding winners in his sixtieth year. Lacey Morrison rates high praise. Michael acknowledges the talents of his great friend, ace race caller Tony Wode. He talks of a recent meeting with an old school friend at Rockhampton’s Archer meeting. That friend, now a member of the Priesthood, reminded Michael of his foray into illegal bookmaking on the 1993 Melbourne Cup. Michael concludes with heartfelt praise for partner Tina. It’s a laid back chat with a rising 50 year old whose career path was set in stone at a very early age.