Former racetrack star Curnow Keats has quickly been adopted after recently arriving at GAP.

The four-year-old is now settling into what is arguably the most important phase of his life – his forever home.

Curnow Keats retired after 43 race starts, in which he scored nine wins and 19 minor placings, including a fourth placing in the 2019 Group 3 Great Chase Grand Final.

His trainer Ray Floyd, based in the Gippsland town of Cobains, shared some his special memories of his former star.

“First thing in the morning, every morning, Curnow Keats – or ‘Charlie Boy’ as we used to call him – wanted to have a cuddle,” Floyd recalled.

“He is the most affectionate, loveable greyhound…and he gave his all on the track, but he always wanted to start the day with a cuddle.”

“He is the most affectionate, loveable greyhound…and he gave his all on the track, but he always wanted to start the day with a cuddle.”

“He is a very clever animal too, taking on board everything that we taught him, as well as getting on very well with all the other dogs in the kennel. He was such a pleasure to have around.”

Towards the end of our discussion, Ray’s voice started to crack with emotion, as he concluded, “Charlie Boy will make a magnificent family pet.”

Curnow Keats, who boasted lightning early speed, burst on the scene winning his first two race starts – a heat and final of the GRV VIC Bred Maiden Series at Warragul – before heading straight for the big smoke.

Curnow Keats, or Charlie as he is affectionately known, looks right at home at foster carer Lisa’s home.

His Great Chase semi-final win at The Meadows saw him defeat group-class greyhounds Wallbanger and Weblec Eagle, while in the final a week later he was beaten by the brilliant Simon Told Helen, who went on to win four Group 1s and become a modern-day champion.

Prowess on the racetrack – or a lack of it – is not a prerequisite for rehoming a retired racer, and Curnow Keats, who is named after Carlton football player Charlie Curnow, has successfully made the transition from racing with a glowing score card.

GAP foster mum, Lisa Tunney spent three weeks getting Charlie ready for life beyond racing.

“We think Charlie will transition well into a family home with a backyard to play in,” Lisa said.

“During his time with us he learnt all sorts of things about being in a household, and he adapted quickly to our daily routines.”

“Charlie was extremely playful… he loved doing zoomies every day. He was also pretty affectionate and would often approach us for a pat or a cuddle.”

Thanks to the efforts of GAP staff, who make it their business to ensure the best possible match up for potential new owners with greyhounds that are ready to be rehomed, Curnow Keats is now enjoying life in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

And, as the next chapter of this greyhound’s life unfolds, you can listen to Charlie’s new owner, 33-year-old Jake, speak about his experience adopting through GAP, and how much joy Charlie has brought to his life in the Soundcloud audio above.

*This article was written by Victoria Shaw, who is Australia’s only female race caller.

WATCH: Curnow Keats (1) defeats a high-quality field in a semi-final of the Great Chase in 2019.