Jordan Formosa, 25, was born and bred into the sport of greyhound racing – assisting his father, Jason, from the time he could walk.
However, in his teenage years, another passion – football – took precedence. Formosa became heavily involved with the Heathcote District Football League, and football in general in the Bendigo region. Subsequently, greyhound racing spent some time ‘on the bench’.
But the calling for greyhound racing was still strong, and around four years ago Formosa decided to take his first love more seriously.
“I thought I’d do it properly… So, I branched out on my own,” Formosa said.
Formosa still trains from the family property, but since ‘grabbing the bull by the horns’ he’s made a name for himself as an aspiring young trainer with a team of 10 greyhounds.
And he’s currently enjoying a ‘magic carpet ride’ with Erolo Bale – a greyhound he purchased for only $2500 in December last year.
“He’s been an incredible buy… I’ve already won eight races from 25 starts with him,” Formosa said.
Erolo Bale is racing in career best form, and at his most recent start defeated Group 1 Australian Cup finalist Scatterbox at Healesville.
WATCH: Erolo Bale (8) win his most recent start, defeating G1 Australian Cup finalist Scatterbox (4) at Healesville.
He is now chasing his fifth straight win on Saturday morning at Shepparton in a Grade 5 event over 450 metres. (He will line up in Race 8, Box 4 at 10.05am).
“He’s racing with confidence… He loves to race, and he loves to win,” Formosa said.
Expert form analyst The Watchdog has assessed Erolo Bale at $4.60, behind All In Ava (Box 7 – $3.40) and Hardaway Jayjay (Box 2 – $4.20). Mr. Vinnie (Box 8 – $4.80) is also given a top chance.
Formosa believes box four will suit Erolo Bale as, due to strict social distancing procedures, he will be one of the last runners to be placed into the boxes. “He can ‘play up’ in the boxes, so the shorter time he’s in there the better.”
However, Formosa considers Hardaway Jayjay as the hardest to beat. “He’s well drawn and was an impressive winner a few starts back at Shepparton.”
While greyhound racing now occupies most of his time, football hasn’t wandered far from Formosa’s mind – and heart.
He’s currently enrolled in a six-month course at Victoria Regional Coaching Academy, which unfortunately has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’d like to coach in the Heathcote DFL, but my ultimate coaching ambition would be taking charge of the Bendigo Pioneers Under 18s in the TAC Cup competition,” Formosa said.
