Answer:
Stealthy as a shadow in the dead of night, cunning but affectionate if given a bite. Never owned but often loved. At my sport considered cruel, but that's because you never know me at all.
My life can be measured in hours. I serve by being devoured. Thin, I am quick. Fat, I am slow. Wind is my foe.
What is it that makes tears without sorrow and takes its journey to heaven?
Though I wander the earth, I am no longer here. I am pale and I chill everyone near. Who am I?
When young, I am sweet in the sun. When middle-aged, I make you gay. When old, I am valued more than ever.
I am black within and red without; with four corners round about. What am I?