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Based on the real events that surrounded the life and career of Australia's greatest-ever thoroughbred racehorse, Phar Lap begins with his mysterious and controversial death in the United States. The narrative then flashes back to the day that Phar Lap, despite his lack of pedigree, is purchased on impulse by trainer Harry Telford. Although Phar Lap loses his first races, Telford's faith in the animal is unshakable. Suddenly, the horse becomes a winner, thanks to the love and diligence of stableboy Tommy Woodcock. American promoter Dave Davis arranges for Phar Lap to be entered in several top races, where his long-shot status results in heavy losses for the professional gamblers. Just after winning an important race in Mexico, Phar Lap collapses and dies. While the story never states emphatically that the champion racehorse was 'murdered' by gambling interests, it is certainly implied.
Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of
Works about this Work
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Phar Lap Rewatched – The Mystery Demise of Australia's Finest Race Horse
2015
single work
review
— Appears in: The Guardian Australia , 8 November 2015;
— Review of Phar Lap 1983 single work film/TV -
It Isn't Like We're Lacking Inspiration in Our Books and Music : What's Happened to Great Aussie Movies?
2014
single work
column
— Appears in: The Advertiser , 23 September 2014; (p. 22)
-
Phar Lap Rewatched – The Mystery Demise of Australia's Finest Race Horse
2015
single work
review
— Appears in: The Guardian Australia , 8 November 2015;
— Review of Phar Lap 1983 single work film/TV -
It Isn't Like We're Lacking Inspiration in Our Books and Music : What's Happened to Great Aussie Movies?
2014
single work
column
— Appears in: The Advertiser , 23 September 2014; (p. 22)
Awards
- 1983 nominated Australian Film Institute Awards — Best Screenplay: Original