The radio station then offered Russell the role of second announcer alongside Bryant, recognising that their successful racing coverage was a key factor in their high ratings at the time. A devout Carlton supporter, Russell demanded that his contract stipulate that if the Blues made the Grand Final, he would have the day off regardless of the importance of the race meeting he was missing. Russell was also well-known for his photographic memory – if asked, he could still remember the names and colours of his first Grand Annual in 1937. Fellow race callers were saddened by the loss of Russell and remembered him for his quick wit, and that incredible memory.
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These men called under often difficult circumstances, but they entertained, and people hung on every word. John was the same, and able to recount so much of the past. Greg Miles
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Bryan Martin said that Russell came through an era of race calling that was so important to the industry. “There was no TV, there was just radio and they had to paint the picture for all of those at home, in pubs or in betting rings around the nation. “His recall for dates and places was extraordinary. He would tell you parts of racing history that very few would know. We were a part of a great team at 3UZ, and Bert Bryant and John Russell played pivotal roles in making racing an enjoyable and fascinating business,” Martin said. VRC Chairman, Neil Wilson, speaking on behalf of the VRC, was appreciative for the contribution made by John over a long period time.
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John Russell was a friend to the Victoria Racing Club and our thoughts are with his loved ones. John made a significant contribution to racing and to the history of Flemington Racecourse as a voice of the Melbourne Cup for 20 years and a proud ambassador for the Cup Tour in later years, VRC Chairman, Neil Wilson
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This week also marks 33 years since his longtime friend and colleague, Bert Bryant, also passed away. Russell called 20 Melbourne Cups during his long and outstanding service to the racing industry.
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