John Tapp Racing

Great to catch up with Bill Prain who called it quits in 2018 when his great friend and valued client Fred Peisah succumbed to illness. Bill had been adamant for some time that he’d retire if ever Fred left the racing industry. He talks of Peisah’s unwavering loyalty over three decades. Now in retirement on the Gold Coast, Bill says he’s still an avid race watcher. He talks of childhood days in Parramatta, and the nickname bestowed upon him by his mother- a nickname he’s never been able to shake. Bill talks of his father Col, a former bush jockey in Queensland. Prain Snr had always hoped one of the family would follow in his footsteps. Bill remembers his original apprenticeship to Vic Thompson Snr at Rosehill. The tiny apprentice became disillusioned after two years and looked for a change of stables. You won’t believe the luck that came his way. Twelve months later Bill had his first race ride at Gosford. He had the race won won two strides from home. Just when he was thinking he’d never ride a winner, Prain