All Focus Makes Atkinson A Draft Star

GREYHOUND racing couldn't have come by Scott Atkinson at a more opportune time.

And on Tuesday night at Townsville the 15-year Army veteran continued his rapid rise through the ranks by steering 2019 National Draft graduate All Focus to an impressive maiden victory.

"I've only been training 18 months but last night's win by All Focus has been the most rewarding as a trainer so far," Atkinson said.

"After the race I said to the photographer you might get a bit of business out of this one … there's a few owners!"

Great story.
After a stint in Afghanistan, digger Scott Atkinson came back home and purchased a share in the first National Draft, which inc mutiple Group finalist Wallbanger. Tonight, Scott has trained 2019 @tabcomau Draft dog All Focus (box 5) to victory at Townsville! pic.twitter.com/s3JG2tT5f0

— George Farrugia (@GFarrugia18) March 9, 2021

Atkinson's post race remarks were due to All Focus, a daughter of Barcia Bale and Mepunga Focus, being owned by Team TAB from the always expanding National Greyhound Draft.

And it was through Atkinson's involvement as an owner in the successful concept that ultimately led to All Focus finding her way north and to the 39-year-old's kennels.

"I did 15 years in the Army from 2003 to 2018 which included 10 months in Afghanistan," Atkinson said.

"In the end I was medically discharged because my back and knee started giving out and there was a time there I was thinking what was next for me.

"A few years back me and a good mate Shaun Cameron were in the ownership of a greyhound called Cooper Scooper which was pretty handy for us.

"Shaun actually mentioned the Draft to me and after studying the bloodlines from the catalogue I was keen to get involved in the team that picked the Black Magic Opal x Absolute Stunna pup which now races as Wallbanger.

"He's giving his owners a great ride."

With plenty of disposable time after leaving the Army, Atkinson began helping Townsville trainer Robert Lound before deciding to take up the collar and lead himself in late 2019.

"Around that same time Rob had a second stroke so giving him a hand with the dogs and learning the ropes worked great for both of us," Atkinson said.

"About 18 months ago I decided to have a crack myself – I've now got six in work and really enjoying it.

"But I'm only really new to the training side – there's a long way to go and plenty of learning to do."

Currently ninth on the Townsville Trainers' Premiership, Atkinson was quick to heap praise on National Draft Manager George Farrugia for entrusting All Focus in his care.

"I'd mentioned to George a few times that I was training and a while back he contacted me and said he had one he wanted to send me," Atkinson said.

"I'm really grateful for the opportunity and for All Focus to win last night was a real buzz. Winning for yourself is one thing but to get one for a large group of owners like Team TAB is another level.

"She's had seven starts now and been in the money at six of them – she's getting stronger but boy is she a rat bag at home. She's hard work!"

While continuing to enjoy plying his trade in Townsville, Atkinson admits that the thrills Wallbanger has delivered his group of owners through Team Cameron has been unparalleled.

"The week of the Million Dollar Chase Final my heart was popping out of my chest," Atkinson said.

"To win 19 races and make a handful of group finals has been a fantastic ride to be on. The Draft is a great concept and Wallbanger is the perfect example.

"I've been trying to convince George to send him up here for the Townsville Cup next time around but no luck yet!

"I'll keep trying though!"