A few months ago, on Thrill of the Chase, we told the story of Matthew Field, a young bloke with spina bifida that’s been a regular visitor at the Ballarat greyhounds (among other racetracks) for years.
Everybody knows him there, and he’s come to gain some respect as a tipster, but even more as a lover of the breed.
It was only last year, when COVID restrictions were keeping Matt from his weekly night at the track, he managed to adopt a dog of his own, Apache (formerly Wind Whistler). The emotional story of Matt and Apache generated thousands of responses on social media and was one of GRV’s most popular of the year.
George Farrugia was just one who responded to the story.
“I think Matt is a really good role model for people with disabilities. I think the bond he has with his greyhound is amazing.”
“Once we saw that story on Thrill of the Chase, we thought Matt hasn’t been dealt the best hand in life in regard to his health, so we just wanted to do something.”
“Once we saw that story on Thrill of the Chase, we thought Matt hasn’t been dealt the best hand in life in regard to his health, so we just wanted to do something.”
And so, they did. With co-owner Wade Gallagher, George made Matt the very proud owner of a 10% share in a pup. He got to choose the dog, and he’s even been given naming rights, which is proving difficult, but there’s a good chance it will reference his brother, Justin, who tragically died in a car accident 19 years ago.
His mother, Cathy, explains the strong bond Matt had with his brother.
“Justin used to always say, if anything goes on with Matt, let me know. Nobody could do anything to him.”
Matt was elated on the day he chose his pup.
“I’m really happy to have a part, a share, of a greyhound. At the track, I’ll be part of the team! I’ll be really excited to see my greyhound win first.”
Cathy said her son has dreamed of having a share in a greyhound for years.
“It’s really a dream come true.”
*Thrill of the Chase returns to 7Two this Sunday at 11am and on Saturday 27 February at 9pm for the final of the Group 1 Australian Cup at The Meadows.
