GaryRalph, whose greyhound Gold Spring remains the only bitch to win two Ladies Bracelet finals, has passed away, aged 72.
Late last week Ralph succumbed to a particularly aggressive brain tumour.
Gold Spring won the 1979 and 1980 Ladies Bracelet finals at Harold Park when trained by Ralph, who also owned the Ray King-trained 1996 group one Association Cup winner Groovy Dancer and former champion Queensland sprinter Roanokee, who won the 1997 Mebourne Cup when trained by Roger Green.
Mick Abbott, trainer of former champion race and stud dog Token Prince, was a close friend of Ralph's for 40 years.
"Gary retired from greyhounds around 10 years ago but continued to maintain a keen interest in the sport,'' Abbott said.
"Shortly before he died, following an operation which proved unsuccessful, he stayed at my home for a week and we re-lived some wonderful greyhound racing memories together.
"Gary had been told his form of cancer was virtually inoperable but he gave it a shot and accepted his fate with bravery and dignity.
"He told me he had a wonderful family and had enjoyed a great life but I obviously feel he was taken from us too soon.''
Greyhound Racing NSW wishes to pass on its sincere condolences to the relatives and many friends of GaryRalph.
