22-year-old trainer Dylan Bate (pictured above with South Of Eden and connections) claimed his first city win at Sandown Park last night.
It comes just two years into his training career where he works in partnership with his father Robert.
“It’s a good feeling knowing we’ve won our first city race. We’re pretty excited,” said Bate following the win.
The family’s involvement in greyhound racing started with ownership. Over time and with encouragement from friend and fellow trainer Mark Giddings, they decided to take the next step in participation and begin training.
“We’ve owned greyhounds for about three or four years. It all started with my pop, he loved watching the racing and we eventually bought our first pup together. After a while we decided to give training a go.”
Team Bate’s triumphant win was thanks to near three-year-old South Of Eden who capitalised on his rails draw at odds of $9.
“I thought he was a bit of a chance, he just had to jump well and be near them turning for home.”
South Of Eden started his racing career with Angela Langton before he was purchased for a relatively small price by the Novice Syndicate headed by Steven Costante. He joined Bate’s team in April, 26 starts into his career and at the time racing at tier 3 level. Since then he has registered four wins from 17 starts.
“I was offered to train him by Michelle Mallia-Magri and the owners were happy for me to take him. I only met them after we started training the dog. They love the sport so this is a special moment for them as well.”
Bate is a keen fantasy sports player but spends most of his time caring for the greyhounds. It has become a way of life for him and he is optimistic of doing it long-term.
“My family help out and chip in when they can. I’ve enjoyed it so far, we’ll see what happens in the future.”
Click here for last night’s results
