Well known race broadcaster Ray Fewings, who also trains a small greyhound racing team, enjoyed success at Gawler on Tuesday.
In the second 400m Grade 6 event of the day, Megalomaniac was best away from box 1, to take the lead from Michele Quick (2) and Outdoorsy (3). Down the back straight, Michele Quick had a short tussle with Megalomaniac, but was able to slowly wear the leader down, and get out to a break of 3 lengths. Spring Irish (4) on the rails and Outdoorsy out wider, were able to narrow the margin in the home straight, but Michele Quick had too much up her sleeve, and won by a length in 23.31 secs. Spring Irish was second for Greg Broad of Murray Bridge, with Outdoorsy third for Nicole Newlyn of Lewiston.
Michele Quick is both trained and owned by Ray, who also reared the locally bred fawn female. She has now won 7 races from just 8 race starts, with Ray describing Michele Quick as a good beginner, but a short distance dog. As a result, Ray has carefully placed her to ensure she has every opportunity to win, which she has repaid with the excellent results, including the last 5 straight wins. Ray has been involved as a participant in all 3 racing codes, and in the early days of greyhound racing, he raced some dogs from NSW that featured the name “Quick”, all from the same breeder. He also raced another Michele Quick many years ago, and when he saw the current namesake as a pup , he described her as a “dead ringer” of the earlier red fawn, with the same big eyes. He even gave this one the same kennel name of Velvet, such was the likeness.
Ray is hoping that Velvet will improve over longer distances, but is also considering a transfer to Victoria, where further opportunities over the sprint distance are available. Ray is finding the training of his small team and young pups a very relaxing hobby, which he thoroughly enjoys in the tranquil surroundings at Williamstown. And with Michele Quick racing so consistently, it certainly helps.
Racing is conducted at the Gawler track every Tuesday afternoon and Sunday night, so why not be part of the great racing and meals on offer there..
