There would be few trainers nationwide having a better run than Graham Nicoll.
From 12 starts so far in October he boasts a winning strike rate of 50%. Last night at Sandown Park Tiny Bopper and Krav Maga continued his hot run as they completed a winning double for the 53-year-old.
“I’ve had to pinch myself,” said Nicoll.
Compared to other participants his age, Nicoll has a relatively short history in greyhound racing. He was introduced to the sport at a young age and generated a strong interest that made participation later life almost inevitable.
“I’ve always loved greyhounds. As a kid my mum took me to the track – I used to go home and write all the race times down in a book. It’s hard to believe I’m now training city winners for myself.”
Since training his first greyhound in 2009, Nicoll has regarded himself as a hobby trainer however after his recent success things are starting to change.
“As a hobby it’s been great fun but now it’s starting to get a bit more serious. I’ve always thought having two dogs is a hobby, having four is like having a full time job,” laughed Nicoll.
His life changed early this year when diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart’s ability to pump blood is decreased.
“I spent 10 days in hospital which wasn’t much fun. It’s something I can only manage – walking the dogs helps with management and recovery.”
The illness halted his job as a fencing contractor however in his view it hasn’t all been bad news.
“As soon as I was diagnosed I had to give up work. You could say it’s been a bit of a blessing in disguise as I’ve been able to put all of my time into the dogs.”
Most greyhound trainers live on large properties but for Nicoll home base is a residential house at Botanic Ridge in Melbourne’s southeast.
“The dogs often have have a bit of a bounce around in the backyard but we do all our walking at Cranbourne Racecourse. With the straight track along the highway and the runs they have it’s a great spot to take the dogs.”
Although Nicoll has been unable to work he has no need to return anytime soon with success on the track providing financial benefit.
“At the moment this is enough. I’ll keep riding the wave as far as it takes me however I’m under no illusion that eventually I’ll probably have to go back to work.”
