| Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
| Tom Burlinson | ... | Tommy Woodcock | |
| Martin Vaughan | ... | Harry Telford | |
| Judy Morris | ... | Bea Davis | |
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Celia De Burgh | ... | Vi Telford |
| Ron Leibman | ... | Dave Davis | |
| Vincent Ball | ... | Lachlan McKinnon | |
| John Stanton | ... | Eric Connolly | |
| Peter Whitford | ... | Bert Wolfe | |
| Robert Grubb | ... | William Nielsen | |
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Richard Morgan | ... | 'Cashy' Martin |
| Gia Carides | ... | Emma (as Georgia Carr) | |
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James Steele | ... | Jim Pike |
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Simon Wells | ... | Newsboy |
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Kelvyn Worth | ... | Newsboy |
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Justin Ridley | ... | Newsboy |
Phar Lap, the legendary Australian racing horse, is as well-known today for his mysterious death as for his fabulous accomplishments in life. Beginning at the end, the film flashes back to the day that Phar Lap, despite his lack of pedigree, is purchased on impulse by trainer Harry Telford. Phar Lap loses his first races, but 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; though the film never comes out and says as much, it is assumed that the horse was "murdered" by the gambling interests. Written by Hal Erickson
I have watched Phar Lap several times and it brings tears to my eyes every time I watch it! It's a wonderful movie. I'm glad they finally put it on DVD!! I believe that Phar Lap was the worlds greatest race horse. There has never been another like him. It's a shame that he didn't get the chance to sire any babies. They would have been winners like him. I also think Tommy Woodcock was a great trainer! The actors, although unknown to most Americans, were very believable. You couldn't help but to fall in love with the wonderful little horse and I found myself rooting for him every time he raced. The movie will keep you enthralled and sitting on the edge of your seat.