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  • Wednesday, 16 Sep, 2015,
  • by Greyhound Racing Victoria

Luca’s Mighty Racing Career Over

One of Australia’s favourite greyhounds that provided so many thrills throughout his career has sadly been retired due to injury.

Luca Neveelk was the greyhound that epitomised all that is great about greyhound racing. The family atmosphere; the ability of a ‘little’ trainer to reach the pinnacle of the sport; and the ability of a champion to draw crowds and spark an interest were all traits associated with Luca.

Luca Neveelk was trained by Gerry and Rose Kleeven, a couple in their 70’s that live in the little town of Denison in Gippsland.  He remains with them at their family home and is now at stud after providing so many amazing moments throughout his career.

“He had a marvellous career and he came at a great time for us, just when we needed a lift,” Gerry said.

Although suffering a serious injury, Gerry said his greyhound was in good spirits following incident.

“The on-track vet at Traralgon did a marvellous job, she was just amazing.

“When he got home all he did was walk onto his bed roll over onto his back with his four legs in the air and went to sleep.”

Luca Neveelk has had surgery on his injury and is now back with the Kleeven’s on their property. He has a career at stud in front of him.

The distinctive blue greyhound finished his career with three group triumphs including the Group1 Australian Cup, and the Group 2 Geelong and Ballarat Cups. He made a total of eight group finals and was placed on two further occasions in group events. He was a giant in the greyhound racing game and was a racer loved by all fans of the sport.

He finished his career with 29 wins, 12 placings and $518,000 in prizemoney from his 49 starts.


WATCH: Luca Neveelk’s Group wins. 

 

2015 Group 1 Australian Cup 

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2014 Group 2 Ballarat Cup

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2014 Group 2 Geelong Cup

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PIC: Rose and Gerry Kleeven with their champion Luca Neveelk after the Geelong Cup. Courtesy Clint Anderson

Greyhound Racing VictoriaGreyhound Racing Victoria

Greyhound Racing Victoria

GRV regulates the sport of greyhound racing in the state of Victoria under the Racing Act 1958 (Act), which includes setting standards and ensuring they are met by participants.

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