Maffra greyhound trainer and primary school teacher Steph Cameron recently enjoyed a big week, training two winners at Sale seven days apart and getting married to partner Sam Tyler in between.

Capping it off was the fact that her two winners, She’s A Collinda (November 8) and Cosmic Collinda (November 15) were on the main guest list at the couple’s wedding on November 14.

“Our dogs are like our children…we are all a family,” Cameron exclaimed.

Before meeting Steph six years ago, Sam had barely seen a greyhound, however she felt blessed by the fact that when they started dating Sam would always accompany her to the racing tracks. According to Cameron, now Sam is the one that is most hooked.

“It’s a passion that we both love. We are always researching it and we are so immersed in it. With Cameron and Tyler each balancing their careers as a teacher and an electrician respectfully, their family acts as an overseer whilst the couple are working as their dogs are housed a kilometre down the road at Steph’s dad’s place.

Some may consider the prospect of racing greyhounds in the same week of your wedding as too much, but it was an easy decision for the couple.

“She’s A Collinda went so well. It was a great way to start the wedding week. Before Cosmic Collinda’s race, Sam and I had a Mr and Mrs brunch in the morning. We were so exhausted but after he came out and won it made everything so amazing and it worked out so well.”

The newly wedded couple plans on continuing the Cameron family’s greyhound racing tradition. Cameron explained that “the Collinda line has been in my family since before I was born.”

“For Sam and I to be taking over the reins from Dad over the last couple of years, and for such a big week for the family, it was of huge significance. We have sacrificed a lot to pursue this avenue. This is the life that we have chosen to live. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Cameron explained.

“I love animals and I love greyhounds. I love their personality and how beautiful the actual greyhound breed is and there is no way I could never not have a greyhound in my life,” Cameron said.

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HOT DOGS IN GIPPSLAND
Bonnie Chignell’s hottest recent runs in the Gippsland region

Cranbourne Saturday 21 November
Stunning Success (Kelvin Browney): A strong run by this girl saw her lead the whole way for a convincing victory by more than lengths (Replay)

Zipping Simmo (Stan Ralph): After being back in the field for most of the race, this dog came home impressively to take out the win (Replay)
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Sale Sunday 22 November

Nitro Hook (Brian Alford): A 25.17 run was enough for this dog to notch his third win. All of his starts have been in the money so far (Replay)

Zipping Alley (Gary McMillan): Makes it two in a row at Sale leading all of the way for a convincing victory (Replay)
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Warragul Tuesday 24 November

Apollo’s Twinn (Bronwyn Pulis): After having a slow start, this dog mustered late speed to take out her second career win  (Replay)

Walk Woody Walk (Pauline Bailey): Though this dog came second, it was a tremendous run coming from the back of the field to score a placing. Yet to win a race but this shows promise (Replay)
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Traralgon Wednesday 25 November  

Mighty Sprite (Amy Lauterboom): This dog seems to have no weakness, taking out another victory to take his to-date prizemoney just over $50,000 (Replay)

Audacious Sprite (Michael Fearnley): A near track record run of 22.46sec over the 395m saw this dog take out his sixth career win (Replay)