Tuono Charlie, the greyhound who dominated the Irish racing scene this year with an unparalleled streak of 16 consecutive wins, has officially retired. Regarded as one of the greatest stayers in history, his illustrious racing career came to an abrupt end following a severe hock injury sustained during a trial over the weekend. Charlie is now transitioning to a new chapter as a stud dog, already adapting to a more relaxed life on the couch.
A Heartbreaking Moment for His Team
Alan Brazier and Sharon Hunt, the devoted breeders and trainers who guided Tuono Charlie throughout his remarkable journey, were heartbroken by the news. They assured fans that their star athlete would receive the finest care and expressed relief that he has been comfortable since the injury.
Sharon reflected on the unexpected setback, describing it as a devastating blow. She explained how much Charlie means to them, calling him a cherished member of their family. “We bred him and raised him from the very beginning. He returned to us as a young dog ready to race, and the rest is history.”
A Champion From the Start
Sharon recalled how early signs hinted at Charlie’s exceptional talent. “We knew he was special, but we never imagined just how extraordinary he would become. From the start, he had a natural knack for racing. As his confidence grew, so did his brilliance. Six-bend races always came naturally to him.”
She praised his relaxed demeanour and focused mindset. “Training him was a dream. Once a race was over, he switched off completely. He only came alive when it was time to race. He knew when his race meal arrived that it was time to shine.”
An Unforgettable Journey
Charlie’s incredible winning streak, particularly after stepping up to longer distances, marked the pinnacle of his career. Sharon shared how these moments defined their time as trainers. “Switching to six bends was always the plan, but we never imagined the success he would achieve. Once he started winning, he never stopped. It felt surreal. We had to pinch ourselves at times.”
She recounted the highlights of his journey, from Kilkenny and Cork to Shelbourne Park, with the Tralee stake perfectly aligning with his rise to the Cambridgeshire victory. “It felt like destiny. To have such an extraordinary sequence of wins is something we still find unbelievable.”
As Tuono Charlie transitions to his new role, his legacy as a racing icon remains untouched, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and in the hearts of those who witnessed his greatness.