Scottish born Hamilton in winners circle


Are You rounded out Thursday night’s card of racing at Sandown Park with a seven length romp for Scotland born trainer Eddy Hamilton.

“I was confident he’d go well but I was really happy he came out of the boxes like he did. I know he can when he wants to, but he’s a moody bugger,” said Hamilton.

About 18 months ago Hamilton was struck down by bowel cancer and a hospital visit for an expected 3-5 days turned into a three and a half month stay. He was present at the track Thursday night but given health issues he’s unable to handle his greyhound in preparation for a race. His daughter Mary makes the drive from Berwick to take handling duties.

“My daughter never used to be too fond of greyhounds, now she’s over the moon with them. She used to have a King Charles who died of old age and following that she was never going to have another dog. Now she’s got two greyhounds,” laughed Hamilton.

“She even comes up to Shepparton, not every time but most of the time she’ll come up and help me out.”

Hamilton and his family moved from Scotland to Australia in 1956, then a 19-year-old youngster. When growing up greyhounds were a big part of his life and with Australia’s existing set-up at the time the transition was made easy.

“I’ve had greyhounds since I was 13-years-old. Dad made the decision to bring the family over here as he thought they’d be more opportunity for his boys.”

Are You is one of three racing greyhounds in Hamilton’s Invergordon kennel. Significant offers have been made for Are You however Hamilton is yet to budge.

“I’ve been offered a lot of money for the dog but I’ve knocked them all back. I had another dog called Vapour Lee who I sold – I didn’t really want to sell him but gave in to financial pressure.”

Are You has finished in the money in 19 of his 30 career starts and having only recently turned 2-years-old he certainly looks to be a greyhound to follow.

Click here for Thursday’s results

Are You lands a 7L win in 29.72

Jason Adams
About Jason Adams - Racing Operations Coordinator at Sandown Park. Over 8 years involvement in greyhound racing and one of the sport's biggest and most passionate fans.
View all posts