Hector Fawley’s legacy continues as champion greyhound retires
The Cockerell family has decided to retire their champion greyhound, Hector Fawley, marking the end of a remarkable journey in the sport.
The Group 1-winning greyhound, known for his exceptional performances, is now set to embark on a highly anticipated stud career.
Hector Fawley, a son of Bernardo and Rolanda Hooch, concluded his racing career with an impressive record of 26 wins from 75 starts, amassing $799,775 in prizemoney. His final victory came in the G3 Silver Bullet race over 525m at The Meadows in November.
The decision to retire Hector Fawley was influenced by an injury sustained in his last race at The Meadows in December, where he tore chest muscles.
Despite initial plans to compete in Queensland’s Golden Sands event, his recovery progress, combined with overwhelming interest from breeders, led to the conclusion that retirement was the best option.
Hector Fawley brought immense joy to the Cockerell family, delivering a Group 1 victory in the 2023 Hume Cup and showcasing his versatility as both a middle-distance competitor and a sprinter.
2023 Hume Cup Replay – Hector Faley (34.26)
One of his most notable achievements came in The Sandgroper, a 520m slot race at Cannington, where he staged a stunning comeback from last place to claim victory against a star-studded field.
Recognised as Greyhound Clubs Australia’s Run of the Year, his win in The Sandgroper highlighted his incredible speed and tenacity.
Hector Fawley also demonstrated his ability to compete with the nation’s top sprinters, placing third in the 2023 Phoenix race and achieving impressive personal bests at The Meadows and Sandown Park with times of 29.54 and 29.13, respectively.
2024 The Sandgroper Replay – Hector Fawley (29.42)
The greyhound’s pedigree further enhances his legacy, with champion Irish sire Kinloch Brae as his maternal grandsire and a rich dam-line steeped in success.
His retirement has generated significant interest among breeders, with 57 requests already lined up for his stud services.
As the Cockerell family transitions from racing with Hector Fawley, they remain optimistic about the future, particularly with two promising litters sired by Bernardo.
Both litters, out of Madam Rosmerta and Cornish Pixie, offer hope for continuing the family’s success in greyhound racing.
While Hector Fawley’s departure leaves a significant void, the Cockerells remain committed to their passion for the sport, ensuring his legacy lives on through his lineage and the memories he created on the track.