TLC breathes new life into Bakali George for young trainers
BAKALI George passed $10,000 in earnings last week for owner/trainer combination Leland Medcraft and Kate Jackson of Bullengarook.
The young couple who train part-time from “Bakali Kennels” were rewarded with their favourite dog “George” landing another emotional win.
It was an early start for the pair as they hit the road to Shepparton on Thursday with the son of Rippin’ Sam x Miss Hodge.
The white and brindle dog started $3.50 favourite with Aussie bookmakers so there was a little expectation that the kennel favourite could salute.
“He’s a special little dog and Kate and I sometimes get emotional when he runs,” Medcraft said.
From box seven, Bakali George settled third early before rounding them up for win number four in a time of 22.55 over the 385m.
“He flew over the top of them for the win,” Medcraft said.
“When we first got him, he didn’t know what it was all about so the wins are special.”
George is loved by the dedicated team after there was an instant connection when the giveaway greyhound landed at the property back in 2020.
“We loved him straight away… I could tell you a lot of stories about this dog,” Medcraft said.
Bakali George was named after Medcraft’s grandfather, adding to the family relationship straight away.
“Yeah he’s named after my grandfather… he was very scared when he arrived but we gave him cuddles every night and played games with him,” Medcraft said.
“He didn’t know what a feed bowl was, a ball was or anything so all the wins are great… he is our favourite.
“He has his favourites as well and he just doesn’t let anyone walk him.
“With a lot of love and attention he has come a long way.”
Bakali George rises in class on Wednesday night at Ballarat where he competes in race 12, with Sportsbet having him as a $34 shot to notch up win five.
Ballarat fields for Thursday night’s meeting have been released.