Brian McKivat may soon be embarking on the trip of a lifetime but he is eyeing more success first – starting at Goulburn today.
Trainer McKivat, who has charge Vee String going for a sixth win in seven starts in the Classicbet 4/5th Grade Sprint, will soon enjoy a three-month trip around Europe with wife Mary-Ann.
The 57-year-old, who has been involved with greyhound racing for about 40 years, will use the long-awaited holiday to assess his future in the sport.
There’s races to be won first, though, with Vee String going for a 14th win in 34 outings today.
"We've been taking her to tracks like Bulli and Goulburn to build up her confidence," McKivat said.
"The big tracks at Bulli and Goulburn really suit her style of racing.
"I think she has a reasonable chance today."
McKivat has been looking after Vee String for Grafton trainer Sonia Kempshall for the last few months while she recovers from ill-health.
He is planning to take her back up to her home track for the forthcoming Grafton Carnival before handing her back to connections.
“I think we’ve had seven wins and five placings in the 13 or so meetings we’ve had together,” McKivat said.
“She is a beautiful dog to work with and been reared very well.”
McKivat has worked in all areas of the sport but is planning to become a hobby trainer when he returns from his holiday.
Based in the Southern Tablelands town of Marulan, McKivat first got hooked on greyhounds as teenager growing up in Sydney.
“When I was 18, every second house seemed to have a couple of greyhounds in the backyard,” he said.
“In my first job I worked with a couple of blokes who trained dogs. That got me hooked.
“I’ve had clerical and office jobs so greyhounds have been my 'release'. Everyone needs a hobby to keep them active.
“Greyhounds have been my reason to get up early every day. There is nothing I have not done (in the sport) and I’ve met a lot of new people.
“Would I do it all again? For sure.”
Vee String heads out from box two today and looks the one to back again.
The race is one of 10 on offer at Goulburn, with action starting at 1.02pm.
For Goulburn form, fields and comment, click here.
