Johnny Tapp
John Tapp | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 20, 1941 Ramsgate, New South Wales, Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Racecaller, sports broadcaster |
| Years active | 1965–1998 (racecalling) |
| Known for | Racecalling over 50,000 horse races in Australia |
| Notable work | Host of John Tapp's Inside Racing, musical tribute "Paleface Adios" |
John Frederick Tapp OAM (born 20 February 1941 in Ramsgate, New South Wales) is a retired Australian racecaller who operated primarily out of Sydney.
Career
Throughout a distinguished 33-year tenure, Tapp announced over 50,000 horse races, establishing himself as an iconic figure in the Australian racing industry. His passion for racecalling was sparked during childhood by listening to Ken Howard on the radio, and he developed his announcing abilities by creatively reenacting races using painted sticks that represented jockey silks.
In addition to his broadcasting work, Tapp produced a musical tribute dedicated to Luskin Star, the winner of the 1977 Golden Slipper, released on M7 records. The record's A side featured "Paleface Adios," a song he composed as an homage to the renowned pacer.
In his autobiography, Tapp identified Kingston Town, Octagonal, and Super Impose among the finest horses he had the privilege to witness. Although he stepped away from racecalling in 1998, he continues to contribute to the industry through Sky Channel and hosts the program John Tapp's Inside Racing.
Award
In recognition of his contributions to horse racing both nationally and internationally as a racecaller, along with his charitable fundraising efforts, Tapp was honored with the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1996.
Singles
| Year | Title | AUS |
|---|---|---|
| 1974 | "Little Hondo" | 61 |
| 1977 | "Paleface Adios" | – |
References