A heartwarming story has unfolded between a greyhound racing trainer and two local people living with cerebral palsy.
Greyhound Matt Loch won his maiden 450m race at Ballarat on July 5 and is named after Matthew Field and Lachlan Barsby, who live with cerebral palsy.
Geelong trainer Michelle Mallia-Magri not only named the greyhound after Matthew and Lachlan, but she has also given them a 25 per cent ownership share.
It ensures that Matthew and Lachlan not only have a symbolic connection to Matt Loch but also directly benefit from his victories and achievements.
“Both Matty and Lachie are incredible individuals who I’ve had the privilege of getting to know over the years,” Michelle said.
“They have been dealt a tough hand in life, and I saw this as an opportunity to give back and involve them in a sport that brings me so much joy.”
Michelle’s friendship with Matthew, a devoted greyhound enthusiast in his early 30s, began on the racetrack of their shared hometown, Geelong.
Known affectionately as ‘multi Matty,’ he has become a beloved member of the racing club.
Matt Loch is not Matt’s first share in a greyhound; Michelle previously granted him a 25 per cent ownership share in Matt’s Hope, a highly successful greyhound with more than $130,000 in prize winnings.
“Matt’s enthusiasm and passion for greyhound racing is like nothing else – he always calls me, filled with excitement, after the races, even when our dogs don’t come in first,” Michelle said.
“He celebrates the success of every winning team.”
Eight-year-old Lachlan was introduced to Michelle through his grandfather. Despite his limited means of communication, Lachlan managed to send Michelle a photo of himself giving a thumbs-up gesture after Matt Loch’s maiden win.
“When I saw that photo, I got goosebumps,” Michelle said.
“If I can bring a smile to their faces, week after week, through greyhound racing, then it gives me purpose to wake up every morning and train these dogs to deliver the best performance they can.”
