Adelaide Hills trainer back on the comeback trail
It has been a long 5 months for greyhound trainer Graham Smith, who after losing his home in the Adelaide Hills bushfires late last year is making a return back to racing with his team.
In December 2019 with the bushfires approaching his Woodside property, Graham quickly packed up his greyhounds and a few belongings before spending the night at the Angle Park kennel house which was opened for him by Greyhound Racing South Australia. Unfortunately, he returned to Woodside to find that his house, kennels and training facilities had been destroyed by the fires.
Rebuilding his home and facilities is a long process. The foundation has been laid for Graham’s new home, and although he is currently sleeping in his shed, Graham’s main focus has always been rebuilding the kennels and facilities for his greyhounds. The rebuilding has been greatly assisted by the kind donations coming from within the greyhound community. The local South Australian clubs and participants, Greyhound Racing SA, Hobart Greyhound Racing Club, Greyhound Data and even New Zealand Greyhound Racing have all donated substantial amounts to help Graham get back on his feet.
“The generosity of the greyhound community has been absolutely amazing. I never expected this type of support, it really has made all the difference and has gone a long way to helping my dogs. I am very grateful for everything the greyhound industry has done.” Graham explains.
One gesture that was extra touching for Graham was that of a local trainer who anonymously paid for a few weeks of feed for Graham’s greyhounds. “That was such a touching gesture, it really caught me off guard. All these small gestures really do make a difference.”
“With so much going on getting my affairs in order, I haven’t had time to race the dogs yet. They’ve gotten lots of exercise and training on my property, but its time to get back to doing the sport I love.” Graham continues.
Graham returned back to the track for the first time since the bushfires Monday night, winning his first race back with Woodside Puma, an outside chance at $13.
Great job Graham!