One of my old mates in Greyhound Racing is a guy that’s done it all. Ron Hood started back in the 70’s and has trained, been heavily involved in Administration as Manager of Ballarat, then went to the GRV as Grader. He was still keeping his hand in until recently at the Meadows driving the Lure, he was acknowledged as one of the best of all time. Always forthright in his opinion his past experience gives him the right to make comment. My favourite conversations with Ron surrounded suggesting he had stitched your dog up when he was Board Grader, now that use to fire him up. Like myself he is tragic St.Kilda supporter and we have put up with plenty I am sure he derives more pleasure in the deeds of his children and grandchildren many of which have followed him into our great sport. Here’s is a story I did with him back in the 90’s and a front page story from 1987.
2024/25 Ken Carr Medal: Ron Hood
Ron Hood has added another honour to his long list of achievements in greyhound racing, being awarded the 2024/25 Ken Carr Medal in recognition of his excellence and service to the industry.
Father of Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club Manager Jodie Faralla, Melbourne Cup–winning trainer Seona Thompson, and respected bank manager Carolyn Hood, Ron raised his daughters with love, integrity and a strong work ethic.
He began his journey in the sport as a greyhound trainer before transitioning his methodical skills into administration, taking on the management of the Ballarat track.
“Greyhound racing started as a family experience for us,” Jodie said.
“It’s the little things I remember – like Carolyn and I getting into our pyjamas before a long drive home from the races at Warrnambool or Horsham. I felt like I did everything with Dad.”
Ron took over the Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club, at a time when it was run by mostly volunteers as the Manager / Grader.
“When he was Grading, Dad could tell you everything about any dog that came through Ballarat,” Jodie said.
“His skills and his hands-on approach made him perfect for the job. He’d be driving the lure one minute and fixing TVs the next. The Ballarat Club really became our home.”
Ron later moved into the role of Central Grader when GRV was based at 1 Queen Street.
“Dad’s time as a Grader was really special for me,” Jodie said.
“I was working at Tabcorp then, just two floors away from him. All I ever wanted was to be around my dad.”
