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From the moment he entered the world on March 8, 2018, there was something undeniably special about the striking blue son of Fernando Bale and Serena Fly High—soon to be known as Tommy Shelby.
Named after the iconic character from the hit series Peaky Blinders, Tommy shared more than just a name with his fictional counterpart. Handsome, tenacious, tough, and wildly popular—Tommy was a true box office sensation.
Under the guidance of trainer Steve Withers, Tommy’s career flourished. Their bond, forged through countless hours on the road during the challenging COVID era, became the foundation of one of the most remarkable greyhound careers Western Australia has ever seen.
Tommy burst onto the scene in December 2019, winning his debut at Cannington in spectacular fashion. It was the beginning of a glittering career: 48 starts, 31 wins, 12 placings, and over $1 million in prizemoney.
A three-time Group 1 winner, nine-time feature race winner, and twenty-time feature finalist, Tommy’s achievements earned him the 2020-21 AGRA-GCA Australian Greyhound of the Year and back-to-back WA Greyhound of the Year titles—becoming only the third greyhound to do so.
Dubbed “The People’s Greyhound”, Tommy captured hearts across the nation. Fans dressed in Peaky Blinders attire would flock to the track, cheering him home with unmatched passion.
His early dominance in WA included wins in the Claude Powell, Kanyana Cup, and the Group 3 Perth Cup Consolation. He then took his talents east, claiming his first Group 1 in the Hobart Thousand, and later, the Australian Cup and the Golden Easter Egg—two of the sport’s most prestigious titles.
Tommy was known not just for his speed, but for his grit. While many champions led from the front, Tommy thrived in tough runs, often coming from behind to win with heart and determination.
After retiring in 2021, Tommy transitioned seamlessly into his stud career. With over 260 bitches served, his progeny have already won more than 2,000 races and $8 million in prizemoney, including Group 1 winners Morton, Uncle Tommy, West On Boonie, and Stormy Day.
In 2024, he sired both the Group 1 Perth Cup and Group 1 Galaxy winners on the same night—showcasing his versatility as a sire. His influence has now extended internationally, with over 70 litters on the ground in the UK.
A once-in-a-lifetime greyhound for Steve and Kira Withers and co-owners Mick and Jodee Harders, Tommy Shelby’s legacy is etched in the hearts of fans and the history of the sport.
We proudly welcome “The People’s Champion” into the WA Racing Hall of Fame.