It’s fast turning out to be a case of better late than never for Frances Goodwin.
The 68-year-old retiree, who has three of her promising sprinters jumping at Goulburn on Tuesday, only earned her trainer’s licence about four years ago but is achieving notable success.
Her young sprinter Oceania">Oceania looks a potential future star, while Goodwin also recently scored a rare TAB meeting treble at her home Nowra track.
The owner/trainer, who works out of the South Coast village of Tomerong and is assisted by her partner Warren Everett, said she had roared Silent Witness home to complete the memorable hat-trick.
“I was screaming for him to get up there,” Goodwin said. “I was jumping up and down at the finish. It was absolutely overwhelming.
“When you retire you need to keep active. I love working with greyhounds – they are beautiful animals.
“There’s a lot of work involved – it’s a 24/7 job - but I love it.”
Oceania has made a dream start to his racing career, opening with three consecutive victories.
He is a son of Surf Lorian, who won 15 of 19 starts in a short but successful career.
The smart pup jumps from box three in the second race of the day at Goulburn, the Iona Tokyo Stakes Trophy (350m) and looks a strong chance.
“He has that early speed,” Goodwin said. “He doesn’t seem to favour the inside or the outside – he can run from everywhere.”
Oceania’s handy kennelmates Silent Witness (race three) and Rogue River (race four) also go at Goulburn.
The exciting pair are helping Goodwin enjoy her time in the sport.
“It’s very rewarding,” she said.
“I like the ‘industry’ itself and the people you meet. We’ve made some really good friends.
“Greyhounds are so affectionate and good-natured. I really enjoy working with them.
“Hopefully we can have more success.”
Another notables at Goulburn on Tuesday include Mighty Belinda (race six), race eight’s Mr Amino and solid sprinter College Belle (race nine).
Ten races are on the card and action starts at 3.09pm.
For Goulburn Tuesday fields, form and expert tips, click here.
