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Horse Racing Biography

Phar Lap

“Phar Lap”

Australian · New Zealand · Born 1 January 1926

Racehorse
37
career wins
1929-32
era
1930
melbourne cup
Harry Telford
trainer

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New Zealand and Australian racing legend of the 1930s who dominated racing on two continents, winning 14 of 51 starts while defeating the best horses of his era and becoming a symbol of antipodean sporting pride during difficult times.

Phar Lap was New Zealand-bred and Australian-trained, one of the greatest racehorses in history and a legendary figure during the Great Depression. His extraordinary winning record — 37 wins from 51 starts including a legendary Melbourne Cup — made him a symbol of hope across Australia and New Zealand. His mysterious death in America in 1932 remains one of sport's most debated controversies.

Famous For

Winning 37 of 51 races including 1930 Melbourne Cup

Playing Style

How They Played

Powerful stayer with exceptional stamina and determination

Legacy

Lasting Impact

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

Career Journey

Timeline

1928 📌 Racing debut at Rosehill
1929 🎯 First major win at AJC Derby
1930 🏆 Won Melbourne Cup by three lengths
1930 🏆 Won Cox Plate
1931 🏆 Won second Cox Plate
1932 🏆 Won Agua Caliente Handicap in Mexico
1932 🎯 Death in California aged 6
Career Timeline — Phar Lap
1928
Racing debut at Rosehill
1929
First major win at AJC Derby
1930
Won Melbourne Cup by three lengths
1930
Won Cox Plate
1931
Won second Cox Plate
1932
Won Agua Caliente Handicap in Mexico
1932
Death in California aged 6