Natalee Marshall has had a passion for greyhounds since she was a youngster spending time at Cannington, Mandurah and Northam’s race meetings.
The trackside experience offered a unique insight into the racing code she loved.
“I have always been around greyhounds and the industry,” Natalee said.
“I grew up on a property with kennels – greyhounds have always been a part of my life.”
Now 22, Natalee is emerging as one of WA’s up-and-coming greyhound trainers with chasers such as Ruby’s Rocket and Raven’s Classified putting her name up in lights.
Securing her trainers’ licence at 19 years old, it only took Natalee one month to prepare her first winner when Emma Monelli strode to a strong victory at Cannington.
“You never forget your first win, it’s been one of my most memorable moments and it came not long after I started training,” she said.
Today, she manages a kennel of four greyhounds – two of which she owns.
Despite having a relatively smaller operation, Natalee has achieved several successful milestones in the past 12 months, including training her first City Class win as well as drawing into a Group race.
Natalee has observed a growing number of female participants coming into the industry, which she said is a result of the welcoming community.
“It’s great to see more woman coming into the sport – most of the younger new trainers happen to be woman at the moment,” she said.
“I’ve never felt a divide, it’s a very welcoming and supportive community and we’re all on a level playing field.”
In addition to her training career Natalee is pursuing veterinary nursing, further displaying the love she has for her greyhounds and commitment to animal welfare.
“Everything I do revolves around animals,” she said.
As Natalee continues to forge her career in the industry, she’s always encouraging people who are considering a career in training to get involved.
“Whenever people come to race nights and want to see the dogs, I’m always the first to invite them to have a pat after the race,” she said.
“Getting more people involved is definitely going to keep the industry going in the long term, and just making them feel welcome is always important.”
Josh Miller