Fernando Bale, Famed Australian Racing Greyhound, Dies at 12
The racing world is mourning the loss of Fernando Bale, a celebrated Australian greyhound who passed away at the age of 12 and a half. His health took a turn for the worse on Friday, November 21, when Paul Westerveld, his caretaker at Meticulous Lodge, found him unwell. A subsequent veterinary examination revealed a critical health issue, leading to a decision for euthanasia to prevent further suffering.
Career Highlights of Fernando Bale
Born on March 12, 2011, Fernando Bale gained fame for his incredible speed and racing prowess. He was trained by Andrea Dailly and raced for the Wheeler family. His remarkable career is marked by significant accomplishments:
- 35 wins out of 44 races
- 8 Group 1 victories
- First greyhound in Australia to exceed $1 million in earnings
Legacy as a Sire
After retiring from racing, Fernando Bale took on stud duties at Meticulous Lodge. His impact in this role has been notable, as his offspring have collectively won numerous races, contributing to impressive prize money totals. To date, his descendants have achieved over $205 million in winnings.
The influence of Fernando Bale on Australian greyhound racing will be felt for years to come. He not only set records on the track but also established a legacy in breeding that continues to shape the sport.
