Young Race Calling Prodigy Carter Ransom Meets Greyhound Legend Russell Veitch
At just nine years old, most children are still dreaming about what they might become when they grow up. For Carter Ransom, however, the dream is already taking shape with remarkable clarity and determination. This young enthusiast from Newcastle is not just imagining a future in sports commentary; he is actively pursuing it with a passion that has caught the attention of the greyhound racing community.
A Dream Forged in Early Passion
Carter Ransom celebrated his ninth birthday recently, but his journey into race calling began much earlier, at the tender age of five. Unlike many of his peers who might aspire to be lawyers, doctors, or even influencers, Carter has set his sights on the unique and challenging career of a race caller. His dedication is evident in the hours he has spent honing his craft, often recording himself on an iPad and listening back to improve his skills.
His recent rise to prominence came when one of his race calls was shared on social media, quickly gaining traction and showcasing his natural talent. This exposure led to an unforgettable invitation last weekend, where Carter and his family visited Wentworth Park in Sydney for the Group 1 Derby and Futurity night. There, he had the opportunity to meet Russell Veitch, NSW's premier greyhound caller for Sky Racing.
An Inspiring Meeting at Wentworth Park
For Carter, meeting Russell Veitch was a dream come true. "It's very cool to come and meet Russ and you get the best view of the track from up here in the broadcast box. You can see everything," he exclaimed with excitement. The experience not only provided him with a firsthand look at the profession but also reinforced his ambition. "I would love to be a race caller when I grow up," Carter affirmed, reflecting on his early start with his family's dogs and his consistent practice over the years.
Accompanied by his parents, Keila and Sam Ransom, and his younger brother Kai, Carter enjoyed a special visit to the top of the Wenty grandstand. He even had the chance to call a race in an adjoining caller's box, right next to Veitch, demonstrating his budding skills in a real-world setting.
Family Support and Industry Encouragement
Carter's passion for greyhound racing runs in the family. His grandfather, trainer Keith Pedrana, has been a significant influence, introducing him to the sport from a young age. "I've been doing greyhounds since I was two years old," Carter recalled. "I remember my Pop used to hold me in the kennels because I was scared of the dogs, but then I started to get used to them and now I go trialling with him every morning."
Keith Pedrana expressed immense pride in his grandson's talent and determination. "Oh he's going to make it to be a caller, don't worry about that," he said confidently. "He'll be the next Rabs or Paul Ambrosoli. He will climb higher and better and hopefully be the best caller of all time." He highlighted Carter's rapid progress, noting clips from when he was just six years old, calling the Million Dollar Chase final with impressive accuracy.
Beyond greyhounds, Carter's versatility shines as he also excels in calling football, showcasing a broad skill set that bodes well for his future. His grandfather added, "If he's not at school and he hasn't got athletics, or any sports, he'll be up at five coming to help me with the dogs." This hands-on involvement has helped Carter learn race calling terms and techniques, further fueling his ambition.
Nurturing Future Talent in Greyhound Racing
The greyhound racing industry recognizes the importance of attracting young talent like Carter. "We have to make sure young people like Carter want to be a part of our industry, and race calling is a hard position to fill," Keith Pedrana emphasized. Experiences such as meeting Russell Veitch and immersing in the sport's environment are crucial in fostering long-term engagement.
Carter's story is a testament to the power of early passion and family support. With his eyes set on the broadcast box, he represents a new generation of enthusiasts who could shape the future of race calling in Australia. As he continues to practice and learn, the industry watches with anticipation, hopeful that his journey will inspire others to follow in his footsteps.
