The world of Australian greyhound racing is in mourning today following the passing of Fernando Bale, a champion widely hailed as the greatest the sport has ever seen.
He was 12 and a half years old.
Paul Westerveld, his caretaker at Meticulous Lodge, discovered the gray dog in distress on Friday morning, November 21.
He was sent for veterinary assessment and finding a critical medical episode and loss of mobility in his hind legs, the difficult decision was made to euthanize the ailing champion.
“I’m just numb,” said a devastated Westerveld. “He was my mate, he’s done so much for me but also for the industry,” he added.
Fernando Bale’s on-track career was iconic. Trained by Andrea Dally, he collected 35 wins from 44 starts, including eight Group 1 victories.
In 2015, he became the first greyhound in Australian history to break the $1 million prize money barrier, finishing his career with over $1.29 million.
But his legacy was truly celebrated after his retirement. As a father, his influence was second to none. His progeny secured victory in nearly 55,000 races and won a staggering $205 million in prize money.
He achieved seven consecutive “Sire of the Year” titles and his bloodline now forms the core of modern greyhound breeding.
Inducted into the sport’s Hall of Fame last August, Fernando Bale’s influence will be felt for generations.
To preserve his memory, his body will be displayed in a museum, either at the MCG or Sandown Park, allowing the racing world to forever celebrate the legend who not only set standards, but changed them forever.
