Summary
This racing saddle belonged to jockey Billy Elliot, who rode Phar Lap on seven occasions between 1930 and 1932, winning every race, including his final race at Agua Caliente, Mexico in March 1932. The saddle was especially commissioned for Elliot to use on Phar Lap by the horse's trainer and co-owner Harry Telford. Because Elliot was so light, even for a jockey, and Phar Lap was typically given a heavy starting weight by the handicappers, Elliot had to carry a large amount of weight in the saddle. Harry Telford had the very heavy saddle designed to suit the horse and jockey.
To be referred to as "Billy Elliot's Phar Lap Saddle"
Physical Description
Racing saddle made of padded dark brown leather, reinforced with a double layer beneath the saddle flap. The saddle is backed with a light brown canvas fabric into which have been sewn metal weights. Saddle features two leather straps on either side, with six holes along each, and no stirrup irons.
More Information
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Collection Names
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Purchase
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Acknowledgement
Jointly owned by the Australian Racing Museum and Museum Victoria. Purchased with the assistance of the Australian Government through the National Cultural Heritage Account.
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Commissioned By
Harry Telford, Mordialloc, Greater Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 1929-1930
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User
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Overall Dimensions
700 mm (Length), 450 mm (Width), 500 mm (Height)
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Keywords
Animal Husbandry, Horse Racing, Horses, Racing Industry, Sport, Making History - Phar Lap