By Jordan Gerrans
From a chance encounter with a greyhound breeder 16 years ago, Gold Coast-based Scott Duffy is on the verge of Group 1 glory for the first time in his life.
Duffy had always watched the dogs growing up, having a punt with his mates and family, but never had a hands-on involvement in the racing code.
In 2021, he breeds and part-owns many a fast dog and has the star of his kennel, Farmor Beach, in Saturday evening’s big Group 1 Golden Easter Egg at Wentworth Park.
A finalist in the 2021 TAB Greyhound of the Year, Farmor Beach is rated a $9.50 chance with the TAB to break through in the 520-metre feature final on Saturday night against a collection of the best dogs in Australia.
Duffy owns the winner of 16 races from 31 career starts with father-son training duo, Churchable’s Wayne and Steve Scott.
Farmor Beach has racked up some big races across his career, including the Group 3 Vince Curry Memorial in February of last year at Ipswich, before claiming the Group 2 Ipswich Gold Cup and Queensland Derby, but a maiden Group 1 crown has eluded him thus far.
“It is a big thrill just to be here,” Duffy said about starting in the Golden Easter Egg Final.
“A race like this, it is a feather in your cap for anyone in greyhounds, they want to be an Easter Egg winner.
“Being in the Final is good enough but coming away with the goods would be even better.
“It is an honour to get to this race, Steve and Wayne have done an excellent job with the dog.”
A slight toe concern put Farmor Beach on the sidelines earlier this year, meaning he was unable to contest the Group 1 Gold Bullion Final, with the team behind the gun dog pleased they now get a chance at a big one.
Duffy, who he describes Farmor Beach as his standout greyhound he has ever owned, felt the Gold Bullion would have suited his gun dog, if he got the opportunity.
Farmor Beach jumps from box one in the Easter Egg, an alley he has won from twice in five starts, as well as two other minor placings.
Farmor Beach finished third to Flying Ricciardo in his Egg heat, and second to Devel Sixteen in the semi-finals to qualify for Saturday’s Final.