Dreams have come true in more ways than one for owner-trainer Colin Graham.
The NSW Northern Rivers greyhound racing stalwart had his biggest win after more than 40 years in the sport when his charge Elusive Desire (pictured, courtesy Dan Costello) captured the $25,000-to-the-winner Flying Amy Classic at Brisbane’s Albion Park.
It was a remarkable victory, with the $13.60 shot producing an amazing come-from-behind success to claim one of Queensland’s most prestigious races.
Click here to watch a replay of Elusive Desire's win.
Graham, whose greyhound edged out highly fancied Whata Nice Size to claim the thrilling triumph by a length, said it had been a “terrific” night.
“He was six lengths off the lead and I thought, well ‘at least he might get third’, he said. “Just to get that would’ve been great.
“When I realised he’d won I really thought I would break down and start crying.
“I get fairly emotional at the best of times, but luckily I held it together.
Graham said last Thursday night’s win, which took Elusive Desire’s record to 11 wins from 27 starts, had not been a total surprise.
“About four days before the race I dreamt that he’d win,” he said. “I saw the two dog lead and then mine come home.
“It’s my dream to win a Group 1 race as a trainer, but this one was special enough.
“He normally gets an ice cream on the way home after races, but he had two this time.
“He certainly earned it.”
Elusive Desire is now being aimed for the forthcoming Group 1 Winter Cup heats at Albion Park, which will likely feature some of the country’s best greyhounds.
This was Graham’s best moment in greyhound racing, although he did breed 2011 Group 1 Association Cup winner Seek And Destroy.
He has had his ups and downs in the sport but the 61-year-old, who first started training as a teenager, said he was back in greyhound racing to stay.
“I’ve had a couple of breaks,” Graham said. “You have work commitments and I’ve been disillusioned at times as well.
“You find yourself wanting them back after a bit. I love greyhounds.
“I’m not going to fight it anymore. I will be working with greyhounds until I can’t anymore.”
Meanwhile, racing continues in the Northern Rivers at Ladbrokes Park Lismore on Tuesday night with Swift Cruise (race nine) looking the night’s best bet.
Elite Honcho and Inspector Cloud look great chances in races three and five respectively.
For Lismore Tuesday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
