Ken Andrews - leading apprentice to beloved bush bookmaker
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Whether it was in the saddle as one of the leading apprentice jockeys on the Sydney scene or being a bookmaker in the bush, Ken Andrews' life revolved around horse racing.
Ken hailed from one of Cowra's legendary horse families, with his father Phil carving his place in the town's harness racing history.
His brothers Jim, Les and Pat, along with sister Grace were all success stories in their own right in harness racing.
Ken left school at 13 years of age to tour country shows with his father, often having to travel by horse and cart.
In 1937, after competing in shows in the Goulburn area, he sought permission from his father Phil to try his hand at a Sydney stable.
During the late 1930s, Ken became one of the most sought after apprentices in the metropolitan area, riding for such great trainers as Danny Lewis and Alf Papworth.
In fact, brother Jim introduced Ken to Lewis, who was instantly impressed with the Cowra boy.
After a while, Ken joined up with Papworth, a well-known Rosehill trainer.
The Papworth-Andrews combination became an instant success, winning his first ride on a horse called Gold Spark.
He went on to winfive consecutive races on Gold Spark.
By then, Ken had truly arrived on the Sydney racing scene, establishing himself as a leading apprentice.
Ken said his most memorable win was on a horse called Morning Gift at Randwick, starting at 33-1.
Following his jockey career, Ken came back to the bush to work as a bookmaker, becoming a familiar face once again in racing circles.