The Mighty Conqueror (1931)

This ten-minute film is the only documentary made about Phar Lap during his lifetime. It was produced by Neville Macken with some involvement from pioneer female filmmaker Paulette McDonagh.
It features superb close ups of Phar Lap with handler Tommy Woodcock, rare footage of him doing track work, and interviews with his most frequent rider Jim Pike and with trainer and co-owner Harry Telford. Phar Lap is shown winning several races including the 1930 Melbourne Cup and the 1931 Randwick Plate - the only known footage of this race and the last time he would run at a Sydney race meet. The film finishes with Phar Lap being loaded on to the Ulimaroa at Sydney docks in November 1931, ultimately bound for the USA.

[@garrisonnichols7372]

The 1983 film was a Masterpiece. Absolutely beautiful.

[@msmezzsop]

Wonderful that this film has survived. Also interesting to see how 'rural' Randwick appeared in 1931!!

[@nancyeturner9620]

Great viewing--thoroughly enjoyed watching Phar Lap --thanks for the film

[@NFSAFilms]

Nancye Turner Thanks Nancye

[@johns78c]

Thank you so much for posting these wonderful films :)

[@NFSAFilms]

Chris Johns You're welcome Chris. Thanks for the positive feedback.

[@Lordkeggles]

I wish I was around to see this beautiful animal alive. The racing committees of the day abused him with amount of weight they made him carry. RIP Big Fella.........