By PAUL DOLAN
RAY Fewings has worn many caps in a long career in racing of the three codes.
Among his many roles has been as a racecaller. In 1972 Fewings became the voice of South Australian thoroughbred racing on radio 5DN when Bryan Martin moved to Melbourne. He was also a morning presenter on 5DN, sometimes referred to as a ‘shock jock’.
In recent years Fewings has been mainly calling greyhound races from Angle Park, Gawler and Murray Bridge.
‘Mr. Versatile’ has decided to hang up the binoculars, but his involvement in the greyhound industry will continue even though his distinctive tones won’t be heard across the airwaves.
Radio TAB general manager David Salmon said Fewings requested his departure to be without any announcements or fanfare.
“We respected Ray’s request and let his retirement proceed the way he wanted it,’’ Salmon said.
“I called my first race when I was aged 13, that was 60 years ago,’’ Fewings said.
Fewings holds a greyhound trainers license. Current kennel stars include Always Ho Ho, a 10-time winner, and talented stayer Porridge Box who has won six races.
“We have bred several litters so hope to be around for a while yet,’’ he said.
Fewings is also a board member of GRSA.
Chief executive of GRSA Matt Corby said: “Ray has been terrific on our board. It takes a special person to win two terms on a Board when they are part of the industry that the Board governs.
“Early in his journey of life I’d say it was apparent that Ray had a great voice and a willingness and enthusiasm to speak to an audience. He put two and two together.’’
Corby added that Fewings has been commissioned to compile the 50th anniversary book of night greyhound racing in South Australia.
“Angle Park celebrates this mark in April next year and the book will be our way of commemorating the occasion.’’
Corby recalls hearing Fewings say that when he gets to the Pearly Gates, no matter how he is assessed, he would like to think they would say – if nothing else – this guy had a crack at things.
Now ain’t that the truth!!
