Trainer Stephen Lambley likes to think outside the box when it comes to his greyhounds and that tactic could pay off at today's Goulburn meeting.
Lambley has three eye-catching contenders in action, including last start winner Dun Ya Dash in the Classicbet Stakes (440m, race 10).
The western Sydney trainer can often be found exercising his dogs in Botany Bay, which he believes has a healing effect on his greyhounds.
A former aspiring jockey, he got the idea from top thoroughbred trainers and he has stuck with it himself.
“When I was younger I wanted to be a jockey,” he said.
“We would take the horses down to the Parramatta River between races to help them recover. I always said if I ever have dogs, I would give them similar treatment.
“We power walk them gently through the water and let them have a run on the soft sand. The dogs love it and the saltwater really helps any aches and pains they may have.
“If it’s good enough for Gai Waterhouse and her million-dollar horses, it’s certainly good enough for me.”
Lambley could enjoy a successful day at Goulburn, with his three greyhounds all looking decent winning chances.
Dun Ya Dash scored a super win here last week at only his career second start.
He is a son of Lambley’s former Richmond Derby runner-up Clark No Ee and has “plenty of his father’s determination”, according to the trainer.
Kennelmate Kazmic Spirit (box six, race two) ran a good second behind Dun Ya Dash last week and based on that run could salute this afternoon.
Piccadilly Sky (box three, race six) is hitting form again with two decent placings at his last two starts and looks a nice each way chance for Lambley.
Lambley has scored about 500 winners during his 35 years of training.
He used to combine training with his job on the wharves, but was forced to quit work about three years ago due to health problems.
“The greyhounds’ enthusiasm and keenness gets me out of bed every morning,” the 57-year-old said.
“I love my greyhounds and I try and give them the best care and attention they deserve.
“When they get a win, I feel like I’ve won the lottery. “
In other action, fast-improving Thor’s Mistress looks capable of scoring the win jumping from box seven in the Goulburn GBOTA 0-2 Wins Final (350m, race five).
The daughter of Goodesy and By A Thread was a commanding four-length winner in her heat last Tuesday for trainer Michael Clayton.
Meanwhile, Black Nero (race three) and Dicaprio in race four are both racing well and have good records here.
For Goulburn Tuesday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
