‘BEATING THE ODDS,’ the high-stakes story of Australia’s largest private bookmaker, Alan Tripp, written by Nichola Garvey, has been listed for release by publishers Harper Collins on Tuesday (March 1).

Tripp, a man some have labeled ‘a genius’ and others ‘a criminal,’ arguably became the world’s most successful private bookmaker. He was Australia’s most convicted SP bookie and was the prime target of gaming and vice squads around the country in the 1980’s. Yet he eventually sold his businesses for hundreds of millions of dollars. THIS IS HIS STORY.

Popular author and journalist Peter Fitzsimons has described BEATING THE ODDS as ‘a beautifully-written account of a man who has lived a life like no other on the planet. Alan Tripp, an Australian original, never quite knew perfectly ‘when to hold them, when to fold them, when to walk away, when to run,’ but he knew to stick to it, against all odds, and work those odds in his favor like no other.’

Starting-price bookmakers, although illegal, were once a major feature of Australian life, giving punters the opportunity to have a bet away from the track. But with the emergence of the TAB, police were ordered to stamp out all other off-course bookmaking in order to protect the State Government monopolies.

Tripp, described as the biggest SP bookie in Australia, was their No 1 target. His punting clientele ranged from the high society of Sydney to the underbelly of Melbourne and included Prime Minister Bob Hawke, media baron Kerry Packer, gangsters Lewis Moran and Alphonse Gangitano, and underworld figure Mick Gatto – as well as many trainers and jockeys of the day.

Tripp’s life quickly became a roller-coaster of high-stakes gambling, with the dual threats of bankruptcy and prison never far behind.

In a fearless and thrilling narrative, Nichola Garvey recounts the drama and intrigue of the life of Alan Tripp, the billion-dollar bookie who beat the odds.

Nichola has identified her talents as one of the rising stars of the non-fiction writers in Australia. She draws inspiration from exceptional yet untold Australian stories, illuminating the tough and gritty character of the nation.

This is her first book and comes after a career in research and a Masters Degree in professional writing at UTS. With an uncanny ear for a good story and an ability to get the bit between her teeth, she delivers unique narratives with spirit and insight.

Nichola is also a keen philanthropist, dedicating time and resources to worthy causes, particularly young homelessness. Originally from Melbourne, she now lives in Sydney.

BEATING THE ODDS by NICHOLA GARVEY

Publication Date: 1 March 2011 – ARP $35 in paperback.