Conversations Richard's Most Memorable Guests — Peter Hoysted
Jan 3, 2025
Peter Hoysted, a crime writer and columnist for The Australian under the pseudonym 'Jack the Insider', dives into the infamous Fine Cotton affair. He reveals a bizarre tale of a racehorse switch, scamming bookmakers, and a cast of quirky characters, including a gangster and a hapless horse trainer. The discussion highlights the chaotic underbelly of Australian racing, punctuated by dark humor, scandal, and the absurd lengths people went to in pursuit of gambling dreams. Hoysted’s storytelling offers a captivating mix of crime and comedy.
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Prior Ring-in Attempts
- Previous ring-in attempts in Australian horse racing include the horse Irby in the 1930s and Regal Vista in 1972.
- One Fine Cotton conspirator, John Gillespie, had even tried a ring-in before in 1982.
Plot Origins
- The Fine Cotton plot originated in Boggo Road jail where John Gillespie, Pat Hyatana, and associates of Mick Sayers were incarcerated.
- They planned to replace a cheap horse with a similar-looking, more expensive one.
Setting up Fine Cotton
- To lower Fine Cotton's odds, the conspirators raced it frequently, ensuring it always placed last.
- However, they panicked when Fine Cotton almost won at Bandamba, jeopardizing their plan.
