It didn’t take long for Jarrad Williams, after making a few regular trips out to the Thursday afternoon greyhound meetings as a client of Claro/Quaran Care, to become well and truly hooked on the dishlickers.

However, Williams soon realised there was more to greyhound racing than just putting them in the starting boxes and watch them go around the track.

The local greyhound fraternity has certainly taken him on board as he now works towards obtaining an attendant’s licence which will allow him to catch greyhounds at the conclusion of their races.

So far, he’s permitted only to lead back greyhounds after their races in the company of a registered person. But with assistance from participants such as Jason Newman, John Little, Kerry Hawker and Kevin Douglas he’s in good hands.

And spare a thought for poor old mum – Jo Williams’ taxi service. One time it was simply a matter of being at the track just prior to the first race and then leaving straight after the last race.

Not now. Her son needs to be on track to help Newman and co. prior to kennelling and to load up after the meeting is completed. Twice a week, mind you. Not just Thursdays but Sundays as well.

He’s also joined the Tara Tipsters competition. Mum, figuring she was spending half her life at the track anyway, reckoned she may as well be in it as well.

So, what’s his favourite greyhound? “That’s easy,” he said. “Harry Swagger.” Seems this dog is developing a cult following at Tara Raceway!

But early next month Williams will be missing from Tara Raceway for a week or so while he indulges in another of his passions – cricket.

Batting at No. 5, he’ll be in Brisbane representing South Australia in the ID Outdoor Cricket Carnival for a third successive year.

Also in attendance will be their ambassador – Australian international cricketer Nathan Lyon.