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SANDWICHES EMERGES A BRILLIANT DERBY CHAMPION

Cheap Sandwiches is the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby champion. In what was his third Derby decider in ten months, the sensational son of Burgess Bucks would emerge a brilliant and deserving winner.

In victory, he would hand Graham Holland his own place in history. Ater joining legends Tom Lynch and Gay McKenna on four Derby successes last November, Holland and his Riverside Kennels operation are now out on their own, responsible for five Derby champions.

A WARM FAVOURITE DESPITE DRIFT

Of course, it came as no surprise as 2024 Derby runner-up Cheap Sandwiches was a red-hot favourite to go one better this year.

Despite drifting in the ring, he would be sent to traps the 4-5 market leader ahead of the UK’s Proper Heiress at 7-2 and the youngster of the field Glengar Silent on 11-2.

Magical Mag was next in at 10-1 with Droopys Deploy attracting plenty of support to start at 12-1. Barefoot On Song was friendless, starting the rank outsider of the field at 40-1. Little did we know she was going to play a huge part in the outcome.

DERBY ROAR AS LOUD AS EVER

The Derby roar was as loud as ever, welcoming the bell and accompanying the hare as it came up behind traps.

And then bang! Barefoot On Song came away like a bullet from a gun to lead up from trap three. Magical Mag came next with the remainder caught a little on heels, including Cheap Sandwiches.

The sectional times weren’t flying. Barefoot On Song, despite rocketing from traps would post 3.40, while Cheap Sandwiches would post his slowest first line sectional of the Derby (3.47). Barefoot On Song continued to dictate into the turn but Cheap Sandwiches was now motoring. Showing big early speed, the favourite would be within a half length of the leader on the turn.

On the inside of the track, Proper Heiress was motoring, getting up the inside of Magical Mag and forcing his rival wide. She would lose her footing and hit the deck, badly hampering Droopys Deploy in the process.

Glengar Silent would fail to hold his position and was last into the turn, although he was soon left fourth after as Magical Mag and Droopys Deploy tangled.

SANDWICHES MAKES HIS MOVE

As all this was happening off the pace, Cheap Sandwiches was making his move.

Joining Barefoot On Song as they swung into the back straight, he quickly charged to the front. Finally, Cheap Sandwiches was in front in a Derby decider.

In what was his third Derby final in ten months, one of the most popular greyhounds in training was on his way to glory on the biggest stage. The crowd certainly approved and each of his strides was greeted with approval from the packed stands.

Barefoot On Song, a mother to a litter of pups, was his nearest rival and was chasing hard but she was never going to reel in Cheap Sandwiches who moved into an almost three length advantage to halfway. Proper Heiress was a similar margin away third, while Glengar Silent attempted to get involved back in fourth.

DERBY GLORY

Running a typically fluent third corner, Cheap Sandwiches never lost an inch of momentum.

He was on his way to Derby success and never faltered. Showing great pace, strength and class, the son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie was welcomed by a wall of noise as he turned for home and he ran right through the line to contain Barefoot On Song.

Cheap Sandwiches would emerge a three-length winner in 29.37. Barefoot On Song would run the race of her life in second, while Glengar Silent flew home to grab third off Proper Heiress a further four lengths back. There was no luck for Droopys Deploy in fifth, while thankfully Magical Mag galloped on behind the field after picking herself up off the sand.

There were joyous scenes after the race. Gary Walshe walked Cheap Sandwiches back up the track, stopping to speak so well to Virgin Media’s Barry Whyte. The presentation area was packed with so many unable to contain their excitement, relief and delight.

After five weeks of the most pulsating racing, Cheap Sandwiches had done it. He had claimed the Derby crown and few would begrudge him his place in history. 

Kerry Boyle presents the trophy to Dan Brasil and Claire Boyle presents the Trainers Trophy to Graham Holland after Cheap Sandwiches won the 2025 BOYLE Sports Irish Derby. Also included are Tim Lucey CEO GRI, Pat Flanagan Chairman GRI, Nickey, Rachel and Timothy Holland and the winning connections.                  Pic: Imelda Grauer

THE CHEAP SANDWICHES STORY

Cheap Sandwiches would discard the bridesmaid tag in wonderful fashion.

A brilliant and deserving winner of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby, he was greeted by his lucky owners the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate - a group of college friends with a few added into the mix.

The road to Derby glory began at the wedding of Ger Brassil, a son of Dan Brassil. A discussion on whether a group of friends should buy a horse was put to bed by Dan, who told them in no uncertain terms that they would be mad to buy a horse and it would make much more sense to buy a greyhound.

And so, a syndicate was set up. With various members of Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch FC five-aside football team in the group, they chose to call themselves the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate.

Dan Brassil was tasked with finding them a dog and they had some success with a couple of their first purchases including Free Sandwiches and Doggy Barko. The syndicate is made up of Dan Brassil and his son Ger, ‘the money man’ Dave O’Brien, Eoin Sweeney, Dan’s son in law Keith Daly, Eoin O’Goilligan, Dara Lundain, Kevin O’Donovan, Rob Hanley, Fergal O’Donnell (described as a wealthy f**ker by his friends) and Jim O’Brien. 

DAN TASKED WITH FINDING A DOG AND TURNED TO JOE

Dan Brassil was again tasked with finding them a fourth track performer and he turned to his great friend Joe O’Connor of Ballyduff. Joe had bred a litter of Burgess Bucks out of his very talented racer Hearthill Josie.

She had just six career starts in the opening half of 2022 but won four times, posting 28.36, 28.68 and 28.70 around Tralee. Her dam line goes back to Skipping Chick. Dan was suitably impressed with the pups and made his choice.

It wasn’t long after he began to work with Cheap Sandwiches that he realised he had a good one. He would contest the Lee Strand with Dan at the end of the lead but after finishing runner-up in the famous stake, would move to Graham Holland’s all-conquering Riverside Kennels and the rest is certainly history.

As for the name, the various members of the Syndicate were coy on how they came up with it but suggested it all went back to a night in Las Vegas. You know what they say. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

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MAJOR SET FOR A MAGICAL FUTURE AFTER PLATE SUCCESS

While Cheap Sandwiches was the star of proceedings, Magical Major took the headlines on the undercard at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night when capturing the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate with a swashbuckling display.

Pat Guilfoyle’s brilliantly fast son of King Sheeran and Magical Mary has yet to discover how to make life easy for himself but his brute pace again got him out of a sticky situation. Grouchos Hoffa went up fastest to take the field along around the opening two bends but there was a line of dogs in his slipstream.

Harlequin Gee Up turned second but would be joined by Sunshine Sioux and Carrick Scholsey, while there was a gap between them. This came in very handy for Magical Major, who had somehow found himself a close behind despite having to show some handy footwork amongst rivals on the opening bend.

As Magical Major made his move, he was greeted by huge roars from the crowd. Cutting through the pack, he would assert before the third turn. Sunshine Sioux took up the pursuit but it was futile. Magical Major would power home to win by two lengths from Sunshine Sioux in 29.53. Carrick Scholsey was the same distance away third.    

CONSOLATION GLORY FOR CALLAWAY

One of the races of the night came in the BOYLE Sports Irish Derby Consolation final with Callaway Five, Magical Sapphire and Ballyhooly Bruno all playing a part, although the verdict would ultimately go to the first named as he held off his rivals in a driving finish.

Callaway Five was fastest into stride and led the field into the bend but he found himself under severe pressure when Magical Sapphire avoided traffic on her inner to turn a close second. Ballyhooly Bruno would also slip around in third, setting up the contest.

Magical Sapphire would press hard into the third turn, getting to within a half-length while Ballyhooly Bruno would also arrive into the third turn full of running only to run out of room. Stuck on the fence behind the pace-setter, he couldn’t find a gap.

Magical Sapphire remained a serious threat as she turned for home but Callaway Five stayed a straighter line and kicked again. In a desperate finish, Callaway Five held on for Owen McKenna and Denis Murphy to win by a neck from Magical Sapphire in 29.77.

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A PLACE IN HISTORY AWAITS

With the 2024 BOYLE Sports Derby run much later than the norm, it seems as though it has only been a matter of weeks since Bockos Diamond led home his kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches to capture the blue riband event at a very wet Shelbourne Park.

However, it has been ten months since that famous night and there is no sign of Bockos Diamond as we await the outcome of the 2025 renewal. However, we do have Cheap Sandwiches and he is set to follow in the footsteps of his kennelmate by starting a red-hot favourite claim his place in history at a packed Shelbourne Park this evening.

After five weeks of wonderful racing action, countless brilliant performances, a number of shocks and a fair share of drama, the outcome of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby will come down to less than a half minute of racing.

A massive crowd will pour through the stiles once they open the doors at 4.30pm, providing an atmosphere like no other. The weather Gods are promising to play ball so there will be no excuses on that front and it is now own to the final six to put their best foot forward.

HEIRESS FLYING THE FLAG FOR THE UK

Proper Heiress races in the red jacket and will carry the hopes of the UK.

Not since Toms The Best captured the 1997 renewal has the winner been trained across the Irish Sea but Mark Wallis will be hoping to end the drought.

Indeed, it’s been seventeen years since the last British trained finalist but in Proper Heiress they have a realistic challenger. Bred by Willie O’Connor in Kilkenny, he was sold out of Enniscorthy after impressing in his second career outings and quickly established himself as one of the best in the UK.

Multiple Category 1 successes are evidence of just how good he is, although this is easily his toughest test. Of course, he has also carried his fair share of luck but last week’s defeat was his first of the classic. He may have only finished fourth after an uncharacteristic flat display but he was promoted with the disqualification of Oreo Ollie.

Hi record from trap one is very impressive. In fact, his only defeat from the inside box came on debut and he is seven from seven since. That will give confidence to his many followers but there is no doubt he will need to improve on his semi-final effort when some sixteen lengths behind the hot favourite Cheap Sandwiches.

He boasts a victory over that rival in the third round but will need to show more fluency from boxes than he when previously wearing red in the earlier rounds. If he finds a start, he could then put himself in the mix and certainly won’t shirk a challenge. One of the features of his run through the Derby has been his bravery on the bend and were there only a half a gap available to him, he would do everything in his power to get through it.

MAG LOOKING FOR SOME MORE MAGIC

Magical Mag will bid to hand Pat Guilfoyle a second Derby success, some eight years after Good News won the 2017 renewal.

The daughter of Ballymac Cashout has been a revelation through the classic, producing a flying start in every round with the exception of week 1 when overcoming a stumble at boxes to qualify.

Trap to line successes would follow in the second, third and fourth round before a third-place finish in the semis where she again set a strong pace to the third turn.

A winner of seven of her last ten starts, she has built quite a following and many will stay loyal this evening. It certainly isn’t hard to make a case for the December ’22 whelp.

Most are rightly expecting her to flash from trap two. If turning in front, it is certainly race on. Obviously she will need to contain Cheap Sandwiches into the bend but that is entirely possible and any traffic amongst her rivals would only aid her cause.

Certainly, quotes of 10-1 seem a bit generous about a bitch at the very peak of her powers and she is expected to play a big part in the contest.

BAREFOOT FLYING THE FLAG FOR THE MUMS

Barefoot On Song is set to start the rank outsider of the field from trap three but she certainly doesn’t know that and doesn’t give the impression she would care.

There is a real freedom to the manner in which she races, often shaking off traffic and running above herself.

A naturally fast starter, she is very strong and Bryan and Kathleen Murphy will be hoping she can provide them with yet another classic success. So too will her pups, who are almost ready to hit the track.

For a bitch to have a litter of pups and subsequently reach any classic final, let alone a Derby, is nothing short of remarkable and great credit must go to her master trainer Paul Hennessy and the bitch herself.

Kevin Hennessy has always said that the bigger the challenge, the more she puts her ears back and gets stuck in.

Few are expecting her to win tonight but that won’t upset those that know her best. Her mere presence is enough to have an impact on the race as she won’t be found wanting if things get tight and is likely to run her race once again.

She has already captured the Limerick Oaks this year as well as finishing third in both the Easter Cup and Select Stakes and finishing runner-up in the Munster Oaks. With a record like that, it would be no surprise to see her make the frame.

SILENT READY TO ROAR

In a very short spell, Glengar Silent has established himself as one of the fastest greyhounds in training and his semi-final performance is clear evidence of the fact.

Showing improvement with every start, he will tonight aim to claim his place in history.

Almost 30 years ago, Tina Marina became the youngest Derby winner of all time at just 684 days. Susie Sapphire was three days older when landing the Derby in 2021 but tonight Glengar Silent bids to eclipse both by becoming the youngest Derby winner of all time at 679 days.

The feature of his racing style is his power from the second turn. He needs to negotiate a clear passage around the opening bends but would be a serious player of turning close to the pace.

Pat Buckley is seeking a second Derby success with his youngster after winning the Derby back in 2009 with College Causeway. He was the last greyhound to come from further back than third to land the crown, a feat that Glengar Silent may be attempting to repeat this evening.

It’s a big ask from a greyhound of such limited experience but he has consistently answered every question put to him. His dam Singalong Sally ran up the Derby in 2021 and Glengar Silent will have a legion of supporters as he bids to go one better.

Owner Tom Nolan will be praying the gaps open at the right time for his star. If doing so, he can certainly mount a bold bid.

SANDWICHES TO DEVOUR HIS RIVALS

Cheap Sandwiches lines out in five in what is his third Derby final appearance in ten months.

It has certainly been a remarkable year for the stunningly fast son of Burgess Bucks and he will start a hot favourite to emerge triumphant this evening.

Runner-up last year, his progress through this year’s Derby has followed an upward trajectory with his level of performance getting better and better, culminating in a sensational semi-final display last weekend.

As a result, he has been quoted as short as 8-15 to go one better than last year. If he were to come home in front, he would hand Graham Holland a record fifth Irish Greyhound Derby success. Most are expecting that to happen and it’s hard to argue against.

Blessed with all the qualities needed to be a racing superstar, Cheap Sandwiches is a worthy favourite. Aside from running Bockos Diamond close last year, he also reached the final of the English Derby at Towcester this summer before capturing the famed Dundalk International in July.

Tonight, he aims to finally claim a first classic success on the biggest stage of them all. One suspects he will be very hard to contain. His owners, the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate may have had sleepless nights over the past week but their star is ready to produce and should he start on terms, he could assume control as early as the opening bend.

DEPLOY TO GO TO WAR

Droopys Deploy completes the field as he seeks to hand Robert Gleeson a second Derby success, some twelve years on from Slippery Robert in 2013.

He has looked so comfortable through the preliminary rounds, coming home fast in each of the five rounds to qualify with minimum fuss.

His semi-final run was a sign that he is running into the best form of his career and quotes of 25-1 and bigger just seem wrong about this powerful son of Malachi. Certainly, he needs to turn a little closer tonight to come home in front but any traffic amongst those on his inner and he could have a huge say at the business end.

He has long been a star for Paul Allen and Robert Gleeson and made a successful raid to Newcastle earlier this year, winning the ARC Northern Puppy Derby before returning to these shores to reach the final of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial.

The one criticism that is often aimed at him is that he doesn’t win often enough but you only need to win when it really matters and don’t be shocked to see his price tumble this evening.

It is very easy to make a case for Droopys Deploy this evening, especially at the prices. As a true wide seed, he is likely to steer clear of those on the inside of the track and won’t need much scrimmaging to his left to allow him turn closer than normal.

And then it’s a case of going hell for leather from the second corner. If you do fancy his chances, the advice is to take a bit of the 25-1 on offer this morning as he could be half that price this evening.

A FITTING DERBY CONCOLUSION SEEMS LIKELY

The stage is set for what should be a fitting conclusion to what has been a wonderful five weeks of top-class greyhound racing action.

Shelbourne Park offers the perfect back drop to the drama and all six sets of connections will be hoping for their pride and joy to put their best foot forward.

Sadly, there can only be one winner and all recent evidence suggests Cheap Sandwiches is finally going to claim the prize his immense talent so richly deserves. Absolutely flawless in the quarter finals and semi-finals, he is peaking at the right time, is proven on the big stage and seems to have too much ammunition for those in opposition.

He will still need to do everything right but after winning the opening heat of the opening round of the Derby, he is set to bookend the classic with another flawless effort this evening. Proper Heiress, Glengar Silent and Magical Mag are likely to attract significant support and all are capable of running a big race. Indeed, it would be no shock to see any of the trio emerging on top but Droopys Deploy is selected as the one to chase home Cheap Sandwiches. He has an ideal draw and much like the favourite, seems to be peaking at just the right time.

Whatever the result, may they all come off safe and sound and may we celebrate our wonderful sport late into the evening. The best of luck to all involved. 

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MAJOR TO MARCH TO PLATE SUCCESS

The action at Shelbourne Park gets underway at 7.36pm with a brilliant card on offer aside from the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby decider.

The feature of the undercard is of course the final of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate.

There’s an argument to be made that this evening’s Plate final I as good as any that came before with the top three in the betting, Magical Major, Sunshine Sioux and Carrick Scholsey set to be serious classic contenders in 2026. Throw in the talented trio of Grouchos Hoffa, Boylesports Blue and Harlequin Gee Up and it will make for fascinating viewing.

Sunshine Sioux and Carrick Scholsey both won their semi-finals in good style but one suspects Magical Major is ready to show the world what he is capable of. He is potentially as fast as any dog on the planet and were he to come away racing from trap two, he could leave his rivals chasing shadows.

That is a big ‘if’ however. He hasn’t always found a clear passage in his races but his pace is not in question and he is a confident selection from trap two this evening. Sunshine Sioux is drawn on the fence and both are likely to race prominently.

Harlequin Gee Up is drawn in three and tends to take a step right in the early yards. That could afford the inside pair the room they need to get into full stride. Carrick Scholsey will also race prominently from five, as will Grouchos Hoffa in the stripes of six but Magical Major can turn on the pace before producing something special.

LIVE TV COVERAGE

There are open races over all distances on the remainder of the card and the likes of Droopys Patriot, Bombay Pat and Coosane Pickles will all start at short odds.

If all three were to put their best foot forward they would likely come home in front but none of the trio can afford mistakes.

Don’t forget the all action canbe viewed live on sisracing.tv while the Derby final and Plate decider will be amongst the live action shown in the hour-long programme on Virgin Media 3. The Virgin action begins at 9pm.  

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ALL THE DERBY TRIVIA

The following will appear on tonight’s card at Shelbourne Park.

It highlights some of the trivia pertinent to tonight’s BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby decider.

Graham aiming to create history on 5 wins

Graham Holland has long been the dominant trainer in Irish greyhound racing and will have a chance to claim perhaps the greatest record of his career this evening when sending out the red-hot favourite Cheap Sandwiches in the Derby decider. 

Graham currently sits on four Irish Derby wins but could create history if his 2024 Derby runner-up does this business this evening. His first Derby success came in 2016 with Rural Hawaii, three years later it was the turn of Lenson Bocko in 2019 with Newinn Taylor obliging the following year in 2020.

And then of course, there was Bockos Diamond last year, allowing Graham to join such greats as Tom Lynch and Gay McKenna on four wins.

Lynch trained the great Spanish Battleship to three Derby wins in the 1950s before claiming the last of his four wins in 1967 with Russian Gun, while McKenna’s final success came just over 50 years ago with Catsrock Daisy winning the 1972 decider. His other winners were Ballyowen Chief in 1965, Always Proud in 1966 and Monalee Pride in 1970.

And so, if Graham Holland were to win this evening, he would become the first trainer to win five Derby titles. Now that would be something very special. 

UK’s Heiress following in some famous footsteps

Mark Wallis and those connected to Proper Heiress must be applauded for taking a chance to challenge for Derby honours.

The record of UK trained runners hasn’t been spectacular in recent years but in getting to the final he has done something none of his compatriots have managed since 2008.

On that occasion Ballymac Ruso, for Matt Dartnell, would finish third to Shelbourne Aston. A year earlier, Groovy Stan would represent Malcolm Daniels in the decider. In fact, in the early years of this century, British trained finalists were common place.

The legendary Westmead Hawk would finish fifth to He Said So in 2005, La Fontaine fourth to Climate Control in 2003, while Tinys Bud and Droopys Vieri would finish behind Cool Performance in one of the greatest Derby finals of all time in 2001. Rapid Ranger got the century off to a flying start for the UK, finishing a good second to Judicial Pride in 2000.    

But when was the last time a runner from across the Irish Sea captured our blue riband? You have to go all the way back to 1997 and Toms The Best. The Nicky Savva trained star would go on to become the only greyhound in history to complete the Irish/ English double when coming home clear at Wimbledon the following June.

For the record the David Geggus trained Sole Aim in 1971 and John Bassett handled Yellow Printer were the only other UK trained winners of the Irish Derby. Proper Heiress really is aiming to create a bit of history.

Can Silent become the youngest ever champion?

Tina Marina raced to a wonderful success in the 1996 Derby, becoming the youngest greyhound to do so.

 At 684 days old she was a full three days younger than 2021 champion Susie Sapphire. Just four years on, Glengar Silent will tonight bid to eclipse both.

You see Glengar Silent was born on November 18th, 2023, meaning he will be 679 days old as you read these words. Should he come home in front, he would take over the mantle as the youngest Derby champion of all time. 

Ladies doing themselves proud

The last female winner of the Derby was the exceptional Susie Sapphire in 2021.

Second to her on that night was another flying lady, Singalong Sally, making it the first time bitches were first and second in the Derby.

Incidentally, one of the main fancies for tonight’s Derby decider is Glengar Silent who is actually a son of Singalong Susie. But it’s up to Magical Mag and Barefoot On Song to fly the flag for the fairer sex this evening.

Prior to Susie Sapphire, the previous bitch to win the Derby was Spring Time in 1999. Remarkably, Ger Watson’s brilliant bitch was the third female to win Derby in the 90’s. The others being The Other Toss in 1990 and Tina Marina in 1996.

For those wondering, the nine bitches to have tasted Derby success are Monalogue in 1933, Muinessa (1937), Brave Damsel (1941), Catsrock Daisy (1972), Penny County (1979), The Other Toss (1990), Tina Marina (1996), Spring Time (1999) and 2021 winner Susie Sapphire.

Silent hoping to end drought for trap four

Aside from bidding to become the youngest Derby winner of all time, Glengar Silent is also hoping to end a trap our drought in Derby deciders.

You have to go all the way back to 2011 to find the last time the black jacketed runner would come home in front. On that occasion, it was Razldazl George that emerged on top for Dolores Ruth.

In contrast, the orange jacket of trap five has been the most prolific. Fans of Cheap Sandwiches will be glad to hear that trap five has won nine Derby finals since the turn of the century. Coincidentally, prior to the 2022 Derby winner Born Warrior, the previous trap five winner came in 2019 when Lenson Bocko raced to victory. He happened to be partly owned by Graham Box, Bev Lochead and Austin Whelan, who were also lucky enough to own last year’s champion Bockos Diamond. He wore the stripes of six and was the first winner to wear the stripes since Newinn Taylor in 2020. He too was trained by Graham Holland.    

Can Sandwiches emulate Hawaii?

Back in 2016 Rural Hawaii would hand Graham Holland a first Derby success.

 He has since won two more but Cheap Sandwiches tonight has the opportunity to emulate the 2016 champion. You see, the year that Rural Hawaii came out on top, he happened to win Heat 1 of round 1, meaning he won the first and last race of that year’s classic.

You guessed it. Cheap Sandwiches also won the opening heat of this year’s Derby and is a red-hot favourite to win the final contest of the classic. It would be quite a way to bookend the Derby.

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ANOTHER VERY BUSY IRISH FOCUS

Given the week that’s in it, it’s hardly a surprise that much of the action on this evening’s Irish Focus on sisracing.tv comes from Shelbourne Park with the semi-finals of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound and the semi-finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate taking centre stage.

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CHEAP SANDWICHES 8-15 FOR DERBY GLORY

Last November Cheap Sandwiches was sent to traps a clear second favourite for 2024 BOYLE Sports Derby decider at 7-1.

His kennel companion Bockos Diamond would start the hottest Derby favourite of all time at 3-10. 

Of course, the race went as the market suggested it would with Bockos Diamond leading home Cheap Sandwiches. Fast forward ten months and it is Cheap Sandwiches’ turn to start an odds-on favourite for Derby glory.

After his two stunning performances in the quarter and semi-finals, he has been introduced by BOYLE Sports as the 8-15 favourite and it’s difficult to argue against their stance.

Glengar Silent was originally put in as the 4-1 second choice but he is now joint second choice alongside Proper Heiress. Each of the duo can be backed at 9-2.

Magical Mag suffered her first defeat since the opening round when picked up in the semi-finals but is available at double figure odds at 10-1. The two outsiders of the field are Droopys Deploy and Barefoot On Song. Droopys Deploy is available at 25-1, while Barefoot On Song is 33-1.

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DERBY PLATE MARKET AND DERBY SPECIALS

Magical Major may have finished only third in his semi-final but he is a warm favourite to land the Michael Fortune Memorial Plate with sponsors BOYLE Sports introducing him at 11-10.

Just behind him are Sunshine Sioux and Carrick Scholsey with both on the 5-2 mark.

With the trio taking up so much percentage in the market, it’s no surprise to see the remaining three at big prices. Grouchos Hoffa has been running extremely well and won’t be friendless at 8-1, while Boylesports Blue is 25-1 and Harlequin Gee Up is 40-1.

BETTING WITHOUT IN DERBY

Glengar Silent tops the betting without Cheap Sandwiches market for the BOYLE Sports Derby.

The brilliant youngster is just 11-8 to oblige, while Proper Heiress is 7-4. Magical Mag is next at 7-2 with Droopys Deploy (6-1) and Barefoot On Song (16-1) next in. 

MATCH BETTING AVAILABLE

There are also a couple of match bets to sink your teeth into if you are that way inclined. Glengar Silent is 8-11 to beat Proper Heiress in a match bet with the latter available at even money.

Droopys Deploy is 2-5 to beat Barefoot On Song (7-4) in the other match bet market.

DISTANCE BETTING

The winning distance betting is interesting.

The winner to win by over 2.5 lengths is 4-5 while under 1.5 lengths is 7-4. They bet 3-1 that the winner will win by a margin between 1.5 lengths and 2.5 lengths inclusive. 

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SANDWICHES FASTEST OF DERBY TO THIRD TURN

It was clear to all watching that Cheap Sandwiches was absolutely motoring to the third turn on Saturday night when emerging a facile winner of his BOYLE Sports Derby semi-final and the clock backed up the view.

Coming home clear in 29.14, he posted a fastest of the Derby 16.84 to the third turn, highlighting his well-being in the process. Of course, in the 2024 renewal Cheap Sandwiches won his semi-final in 29.13, posting 16.87 to the third turn. It certainly shows how consistent top-class greyhound can be.

The second heat saw Glengar Silent making the third bend table for the first time in the classic. The rapidly improving son of Droopys Sydney produced his best start of the Derby to date and would take the lead before the third turn to clock 17.08.

The two semi-final clocks to the third turn have been added to the table below:

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):

 

 

1st round

2nd round

3rd round

Q-finals

S-finals

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheap Sandwiches

17.22

17.17

 

17.03

16.84

Glengar Silent

 

 

 

 

17.08

Magical Mag

 

17.06

17.14

17.20

 

Oreo Ollie

17.17

 

17.28

17.25

 

Proper Heiress

17.20

17.33

17.03

17.36

 

Shanahee Boomer

 

17.16

16.99

 

 

Ballymac Stud

 

 

16.99

 

 

Singalong Curly

 

17.27

17.09

 

 

Unanimous Leo

 

 

17.14

 

 

Cheque For Cash

17.28

17.24

17.20

 

 

Bombay Pat

16.96

16.90

 

 

 

Bockos Diamond

17.06

17.04

 

 

 

Toolmaker King

 

17.09

 

 

 

Solo And Go

17.16

17.14

 

 

 

Magical Keith

17.09

17.14

 

 

 

Seven Beach

17.22

17.16

 

 

 

Barefoot On Song

 

17.25

 

 

 

The Other Wild

 

17.27

 

 

 

Hopes Teddy

17.30

17.30

 

 

 

Phoenix Memphis

 

17.30

 

 

 

Droopys Patriot

16.93

 

 

 

 

Lennies Dream

17.04

 

 

 

 

Ballymac Danica

17.06

 

 

 

 

Hackney Corner

17.07

 

 

 

 

Rolo Tokyo

17.08

 

 

 

 

Carrick Scholsey

17.11

 

 

 

 

Magical On Fire

17.17

 

 

 

 

Swords Style

17.22

 

 

 

 

Ballymac Axel

17.22

 

 

 

 

Faypoint Ranger

17.27

 

 

 

 

Headleys Trump

17.28

 

 

 

 

Lookandlep

17.32

 

 

 

 

Callaway Five

17.38

 

 

 

 

Brickhill Moana

17.49

 

 

 

 

******

REAL DRAMA IN DERBY AS SANDWICHES AND SILENT IMPRESS

There was a bit of everything at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night as the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby field was reduced to six but not before two eventful semi-finals, both of which were won in brilliant fashion.

Cheap Sandwiches and Glengar Silent couldn’t have been any more impressive but the real drama came behind, particularly in the opening heat as the stewards were forced into action.

SANDWICHES SIMPLY STUNNING

Cheap Sandwiches was sent to traps the 1-2 favourite and it was quickly evident that his price was on the generous side as he produced his fastest run of the Derby and perhaps the greatest display of his illustrious career.

Posting a 3.38 sectional, he would quickly drive clear of the fast starting Barefoot On Song. Singalong Curly was also fast into stride but failed to hold his position into the bend and found traffic along with Ballymac Stud.

Instead, Barefoot On Song turned second with Proper Heiress somehow driving his way into third. Importantly, Oreo Ollie would turn fourth. Up front, Cheap Sandwiches was relentless. The wonderful son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie entered the back straight with eight lengths in hand. By halfway it was ten lengths and still he ran with purpose.

Barefoot On Song and Proper Heiress continued to give chase in the qualifying positions but that was to change. Cheap Sandwiches would stride out majestically to earn his place in the final, hitting the line twelve and a half lengths clear in a sizzling 29.14.

For his lucky owners, the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate, the Derby dream remains alive, while Graham Holland is on the cusp of history as he seeks a record fifth Derby title.

The battle for the remaining qualifying places continued behind the brilliant winner, however. Barefoot On Song and Proper Heiress continued to race in second and third around the third corner but now Oreo Ollie was running on strongly.

He shot past Proper Heiress to go third as they turned for home and started to close on Barefoot On Song. Swerving towards his rival, he was right on the shoulder of Barefoot On Song twenty yards from home and then came the unthinkable.

Oreo Ollie made an aggressive action towards the bitch in the final ten strides. The photo finish also told a story with his head pointing in her direction. There was just a short head between the duo with Oreo Ollie finishing second but the stewards were forced to take action and he was disqualified for fighting. It meant that UK challenger Proper Heiress, who finished a further three and a half lengths adrift in fourth, would progress to the final.

SILENT ROARS TO A BRILLIANT SUCCESS

Less than twenty minutes later, Cheap Sandwiches, Barefoot On Song and Proper Heiress would be joined in the final by Glengar Silent, Droopys Deploy and Magical Mag.

Thankfully, there was no intervention required from the stewards on this occasion as Glengar Silent produced a career best to again highlight his incredible ability and promise.

Somewhat predictably, the 5-4 favourite Magical Mag flashed from traps to lead the field into the turn but Glengar Silent, who was having just his tenth career start, found his trapping boots and went up a close second.

Happy Jet was third into the turn but he checked off the turn as Glengar Silent cut across, bumping into Callaway Five. Ballyhooly Bruno went third briefly but Droopys Deploy ran a fine corner to go second as they hit the second turn.  

Magical Mag had a length in hand as they hit the back straight but the writing was on the wall with Tom Nolan’s Glengar Silent right on her tail. Showing massive back straight pace, he would power past Magical Mag into the third turn.

Droopys Deploy also closed rapidly into the third turn and stayed on really strongly to take second but Glengar Silent was unrelenting. Powering home, the brilliant Pat Buckley trained son of Droopys Sydney and Singalong Sally would go on to win by two lengths in a rapid 29.26. Droopys Deploy would take second with Magical Mag again running her heart out a further length back in third.

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

Final draw

1 PROPER HEIRESS

2 MAGICAL MAG

3 BAREFOOT ON SONG

4 GLENGAR SILENT (M)

5 CHEAP SANDWICHES (W)

6 DROOPYS DEPLOY (W)

******

SCHOLSEY JUSTIFIES FAVOURITISM

Carrick Scholsey was sent off a 4-7 favourite in the opening semi-finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate and he would comfortably justify his restrictive odds despite being pressed by Grouchos Hoffa throughout.

In fact, the latter held a narrow lead into the bend but stayed to the middle of the track to allow Carrick Scholsey up his inner. After going up fast, Thomas Glynn’s Carrick Scholsey was in the perfect position to strike and he did so off the second turn.

Once going to the front, the Robert Gleeson trained son of Droopys Scolari and Droopys Beaufort was never going to relinquish his lead. Grouchos Hoffa remained second but Carrick Scholsey ran right to the line to eventually win by three lengths in 29.45. Grouchos Hoffa was second with Boylesports Blue running on to take third, just a length further back. 

INCREDIBLE FINISH SEES SIOUX GET UP LATE

The second semi-final was a far more competitive affair with an opening bend scrimmage having a huge bearing on the result.

Things were tight into the bend with Southwood Stan and Harlequin Gee Up disputing the lead, just ahead of Magical Major and Sunshine Sioux.

It was all set up or a thrilling contest only for Southwood Stan to forget to turn. Running straight off the bend, he allowed Harlequin Gee Up to skip clear of Sunshine Sioux, while each of the remaining competitors carried less luck.

There were big gaps between the first four into the back straight with Harlequin Gee Up leading by four lengths to the Owen McKenna trained Sunshine Sioux and a similar gap to Ballymac Axel in third. Magical Major was another three lengths adrift.

Incredibly, the same quartet would be covered by just over a length at the line. Sunshine Sioux closed on the leader all the way before getting to the front in the closing yards. Peter Comerford’s son of Droopys Sydney and Susie Sapphire would win by a neck in 29.98. Harlequin Gee Up would finish second with Magical Major coming from a mile back to grab third, just three parts of a length adrift.

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

Trap draw

1 SUNSHINE SIOUX

2 MAGICAL MAJOR

3 HARLEQUIN GEE UP

4 BOYLESPORTS BLUE

5 CARRICK SCHOLSEY (M)

6 GROUCHOS HOFFA (W)

******

DERBY FIELD TO BE HALVED FOR THE FINAL TIME

For the last time in this year’s BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby, the field will be halved at Shelbourne Park this evening with a place in the final up for grabs.

The semi-finals of the blue riband are very much the feature and those involved in any of the remaining twelve would take your hand off for a third-place finish right now.

The beauty of greyhound racing is often it’s unpredictabilityand anything is possible in each of the two semis. Cheap Sandwiches remains the one to beat in the classic and his connections will be hoping he can repeat his flawless display in last year’s semi-finals.

He will be a short price to come through his test, despite facing some exceptional rivals in the opening heat. Magical Mag is a warm favourite for the second heat but needs to be at her very sharpest with so many of her rivals capable of going close.

SANDWICHES TO REPEAT HIS 2024 SEMI-FINAL SUCCESS

Of course, Cheap Sandwiches has the benefit of racing in a BOYLE Sports Derby semi-final in the past, producing a career best 29.13 success on the corresponding night in 2024.

He has been drawn in the stripes and will be difficult to contain to the bend with most of his rivals edging left in the opening exchanges.

Should Cheap Sandwiches break on terms, he could quickly assume control on the outside of the track. Certainly, if turning in front he would be near impossible to reel in.

But standing in his way are some serious performers including the pride of the UK, Proper Heiress. The latter remains unbeaten in the classic and will have plenty of support despite a tough draw in the orange of five.

If he is to land a telling blow, he will need to be at his sharpest in the early yards. He does have the habit of overcoming tricky draws but this is arguably his greatest test with the Mark Wallis trained star in need of a his very fastest start.

If he were to turn in the qualifying spots, he would have the speed and strength to maintain his position but so much will come down to the start.

Drawn on his inner are brilliant youngsters Ballymac Stud and Singalong Curly in traps three and four. Both are capable of flying to the corner and have wonderful pace throughout. Singalong Curly, in particular, will need to fly from boxes to put himself in contention from four. A half brother to 2024 finalist Singalong Dolly, he looks a serious prospect for 2026 but his owner Gilbert Anderson and handler Pat Buckley will be hoping he can belie his inexperience by progressing to the final.

Ballymac Stud has really come into his own through this Derby campaign. The joint youngest competitor left in the classic, he has the all the qualities needed to be a Derby champion. Capable of a flying start, he has both the early speed and back straight pace to compete with the best in training and won’t be shy of support. Much like Proper Heiress, he will need to be at his sharpest at boxes but is nominated as the main threat to the favourite.    

On the inside of the track are the two outsiders Oreo Ollie and Barefoot On Song. Both are available at big prices but neither can be ignored. Oreo Ollie has tremendous early speed and is more than capable of racing prominently. His mere presence is a concern for those in need of an early advantage.

Barefoot On Song is a very natural starter and she too could race prominently in the early yards. If she is to have a say, she must clear Oreo Ollie in the opening yards.

It’s a wonderful contest but Cheap Sandwiches I a worthy and deserving favourite. With a level start, he would likely assert into the corner and that seems the most likely outcome. He is chosen to come home in front of Ballymac Stud and Proper Heiress although it would be no surprise to see any of the remainder progressing.

GLENGAR TO SILENT RIVALS

The second heat is even more competitive, although Magical Mag has built up a legion of supporters in recent weeks and is likely to start a warm favourite from three.

See drifted off the fence last week and tonight’s draw should be ideal.

A very natural starter, she is likely to hit the front at trap rise. A winner of each of her last three starts, she would be difficult to pick up if getting off the front but this is a Derby semi-final and each of her five rivals would be dangerous if turning close.

Of her rivals, Glengar Silent is the one with the highest ceiling. Blessed with incredible pace, he has been so impressive through the classic establishing himself as one of the most exciting young trackers in training.

If he were to get a clear run around the opening bends, he would quickly become a the one to beat with his pace from the second turn something to behold.

Ballyhooly Bruno is already a classic winner after landing the Shelbourne Open 600 earlier in the year and he returned to winning ways in the quarter finals. He seems to be strengthening up through the competition and is respected from trap two, although he will need to quickly better Happy Jet in the early yards to turn close enough to threaten.

Happy Jet has been much sharper at traps in recent weeks and can’t be dismissed from an ideal draw on the fence although he will need another good start to put himself into contention.

That leaves Callaway Five and Droopy Deploy to complete the field. The former has plenty of ability but has a bit to find on the clock. He will need a career best effort from trap four if he is to progress. Many expect Droopy Deploy to claim a place in the decider.

As the sole wide seed, a stripes draw should aid his cause. He has produced a series of big finishes to get this far and his many followers will be hoping he can again make the frame.

Magical Mag is the most likely pace-setter and is a worthy favourite but one suspects Glengar Silent could turn a little closer in this contest. If doing so, he could potentially unleash a decisive move down the back straight. He is chosen to pick up Magical Mag. The battle for third could go right down to the wire.  

HOT FAVOURITES IN PLATE SEMIS

The feature of the undercard at Shelbourne Park are the semi-finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Plate and there will be hot favourites in both heats.

Magical Major and Carrick Scholsey will be very short in their respective assignments and it would be something of a shock if either were beaten.

SCHOLSEY TO STRIKE

Carrick Scholsey was already seen as the one to beat in the opening heat but his task has become somewhat easier with the withdrawal of Easter Cup champion Hopes Teddy.

With little early speed on his inner, Carrick Scholsey can assert into the opening turn from trap five before coming home clear.

He ran a remarkable race last week, overcoming bad traffic on the turn to finish third and all evidence would suggest he is ready to go fast. Grouchos Hoffa, from an ideal draw in the six, is seen as the main danger to Carrick Scholsey.

MAJOR TO KEEP RIVALS IN LINE

Magical Major is drawn in two in the second heat and could find himself with room to race with Harlequin Gee Up expected to step right from three.

If avoiding a bump from the fast-starting Southwood Stan, Magical Major could soon find himself challenging for the early lead.

Sunshine Sioux is seen as the main threat but avoiding Harlequin Gee Up is imperative. Ballymac Axel impressed in the second round and is entitled to respect but Magical Major has plenty in his favour and is chosen to produce a massive run to further cement his status as one of the fastest and most exciting trackers in training.

******

ANOTHER PACKED IRISH FOCUS

This evening’s installment of the Irish Focus on sisracing.tv will feature a full review of the quarter final action in the BOYLE Sports Irish Derby.

The Irish Focus will go live soon after 6pm so head over to https://www.sisracing.tv/tag/irish/

******

CHEAP AND MAG FAVOURITE FOR DERBY SEMIS

Looking ahead to Saturday’s Derby semi-finals, BOYLE Sports have introduced Cheap Sandwiches and Magical Mag favourite for their respective heats.

Cheap Sandwiches was initially introduced at 8-11 but in the subsequent hours he has been the one to come in for support in the opening heat and is now available at 4-6.

Proper Heiress, despite a potentially very tricky draw in five, is next in at 3-1 with Ballymac Stud introduced at 4-1. Singalong Curly is next in at 10-1. To allow for the price change to Cheap Sandwiches, Oreo Ollie and Barefoot On Song have both been pushed out from 20-1 to 25-1.  

MAG UNTOUCHED AT 5-4

There has been no movement of sustained support for any of those in the second heat.

 Magical Mag is the 5-4 favourite but Damien Lonergan of Boylesports suggested on Monday morning that she may well drift if failing to attract support at her current mark. Glengar Silent is second choice in the market at 2-1, ahead of Droopys Deploy at 6-1 and Ballyhooly Bruno at 8-1. Callaway Five (10-1) and Happy Het (12-1) are the outsiders of the party. 

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

BOYLE Sports Semi-final betting:

Heat 1

25        Oreo Ollie

25        Barefoot On Song

4          Ballymac Stud

10        Singalong Curly

3          Proper Heiress

4-6       Cheap Sandwiches

Heat 2

12        Happy Jet

8          Ballyhooly Bruno

5-4       Magical Mag

10        Callaway Five

2          Glengar Silent

6          Droopys Deploy

******

SANDWICHES NOW 6-4 FOR DERBY GLORY

Right on queue, Cheap Sandwiches displayed all his many qualities at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night to further cement his place at the head of the betting for the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.

After running riot in a wide-margin success, he is now just 6-4 to land the classic with the sponsors.

Proper Heiress maintained his unbeaten record in the blue riband and remains his nearest market rival at 7-2, while Ballymac Stud, despite suffering defeat, is third in at 6-1 after again catching the eye. He is joined on 6-1 by Magical Mag, who continues to produce flawless displays. She has been handed a place in the weaker of the two semi-finals and that is certainly a factor in her price.

Glengar Silent continues to really impress and is now just 8-1. There is a big gap to the remainder with  Droopys Deploy and Singalong Curly next in at 25-1. Callaway Five, and Happy Jet are joined by impressive quarter final winner Ballyhooly Bruno at 33-1. Barefoot On Song and Oreo Ollie are seen as the outsiders of the party at 40-1.  

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

BOYLE Sports bet:

6-4      Cheap Sandwiches

7-2    Proper Heiress

6       Ballymac Stud

6     Magical Mag

8         Glengar Silent

25       Droopys Deploy

25      Singalong Curly

33     Callaway Five

33       Ballyhooly Bruno

33      Happy Jet

40       Barefoot On Song

40       Oreo Ollie

******

FAMILIAR NAME AT TOP OF THIRD BEND LIST

It will come as no surprise to any that Cheap Sandwiches set the standard to the third turn in the quarter finals of the BOYLE Sports Derby at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night.

He posted a fastest of the round 29.27 in victory and his 17.03 third bend sectional was a full 17 spots faster than that of Magical Mag in the next heat.

Magical Mag was again so professional in victory, posting 17.20. Oreo Ollie may have suffered defeat in the final heat but he did lad in 17.25 at the third turn, while Proper Heiress was some 33 spots slower to the third turn than a week earlier when clocking 17.36 in Heat 3.

A breakdown of the third bend leaders for each of the 4quarter finals can be found below:

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):

 

1st round

2nd round

3rd round

Q-finals

 

 

 

 

 

Cheap Sandwiches

17.22

17.17

 

17.03

Magical Mag

 

17.06

17.14

17.20

Oreo Ollie

17.17

 

17.28

17.25

Proper Heiress

17.20

17.33

17.03

17.36

Shanahee Boomer

 

17.16

16.99

 

Ballymac Stud

 

 

16.99

 

Singalong Curly

 

17.27

17.09

 

Unanimous Leo

 

 

17.14

 

Cheque For Cash

17.28

17.24

17.20

 

Bombay Pat

16.96

16.90

 

 

Bockos Diamond

17.06

17.04

 

 

Toolmaker King

 

17.09

 

 

Solo And Go

17.16

17.14

 

 

Magical Keith

17.09

17.14

 

 

Seven Beach

17.22

17.16

 

 

Barefoot On Song

 

17.25

 

 

The Other Wild

 

17.27

 

 

Hopes Teddy

17.30

17.30

 

 

Phoenix Memphis

 

17.30

 

 

Droopys Patriot

16.93

 

 

 

Lennies Dream

17.04

 

 

 

Ballymac Danica

17.06

 

 

 

Hackney Corner

17.07

 

 

 

Rolo Tokyo

17.08

 

 

 

Carrick Scholsey

17.11

 

 

 

Magical On Fire

17.17

 

 

 

Swords Style

17.22

 

 

 

Ballymac Axel

17.22

 

 

 

Faypoint Ranger

17.27

 

 

 

Headleys Trump

17.28

 

 

 

Lookandlep

17.32

 

 

 

Callaway Five

17.38

 

 

 

Brickhill Moana

17.49

 

 

 

******

SANDWICHES PUTS THE FOOT DOWN IN DERBY

The BOYLE Sports Derby field was reduced to the final twelve at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night and Cheap Sandwiches took the opportunity to put the foot down at the head of the Derby market, producing a flawless 29.27 success to set a strong standard in the quarter finals.

Magical Mag, Proper Heiress and Ballyhooly Bruno won the remaining three heats with all three wearing the red jacket of one to success. Outside of the Derby action, the second-round heats of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate also provided some superb racing with Magical Major again displaying massive pace and promise to go fastest.

Heat 1 – TOP CLASS SANDWICHES

After taking over as favourite for outright honours last weekend despite suffering defeat, Cheap Sandwiches quickly returned to winning ways with a brilliant run in the first of the four quarter finals in the BOYLE Sports Derby as he put his rivals to the sword with ruthless efficiency.

Although not the fastest into stride, he flew into the bend to join and head Unanimous Leo. It would be the pivotal moment in the contest. Quickly driving clear, Cheap Sandwiches was in complete control by halfway.

The race for the minor placings was far more competitive. After a flying start, Callaway Five had been headed into the turn by the front two and sat third as they hit the back straight with Droopys Deploy in fourth.

Meanwhile the Graham Holland Cheap Sandwiches was on his way to a facile victory. The Bark Wahlberg Syndicate owned son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie would race to a seven length success in 29.27 with Droopys Deploy running on strongly to take second, just a half length ahead of Callaway Five in third. Unanimous Leo would agonisingly lose out by a short head in fourth.  

Heat 2 – MORE MAGIC FROM MAG

For the third week running, Magical Mag was simply flawless in the second quarter final as she shot from the inside box to dominate throughout.

Despite edging off the inside rail, Pat Guilfoyle’s daughter of Ballymac Cashout and Mystical Luna would comfortably make the turn from Happy Jet and Blastoff Heffo.

Ballymac Stud and Shanahee Boomer had bumped in the opening yards and the former was forced to check off the turn. It looked to all the world that he would struggle to get back involved but he had different thoughts.

Magical Mag would continue to run with purpose out front before eventually coming home three and a half lengths clear of Happy Jet in 29.69, while the race for third was far more eventual. Ballymac Stud, after entering the back straight in fifth of five, displayed huge pace down the back straight to go third but he was then all out to hold the renewed effort of Blastoff Heffo. The pair would finish two lengths behind Happy Jet with Ballymac Stud getting the better of his rival by a neck.

Heat 3 – HEIRESS REMAINS UNBEATEN

UK challenger Proper Heiress maintained his unbeaten record in the competition in Heat 3, although he did have to work hard for victory.

In a race where there were a number of hard luck stories, Cheque For Cash had perhaps the saddest tale to tell.

He too was defending his unbeaten record in the competition and seemed set to go around in front when leading up from four. Proper Heiress had other ideas, however. Despite making a moderate start from the inside box, the Mark Wallis trained star charged up the fence to challenge on the turn.

Bumping Cheque For Cash out of the way, the son of Droopys Sydney and Powerful Mush forced his way to the front. This would make all the difference. Cheque For Cash would recover to challenge for second into the back straight alongside Singalong Curly but both would be pressed by Glengar Silent who found a seam around the opening corner.

It was now Proper Heiress in charge but Glengar Silent displayed the best back straight pace to go second into the third turn. It was at this point that he edged off, hampering Cheque For Cash and allowing his kennel companion Singalong Curly back into the qualifying spots.

It also aided Proper Heiress, who increased his advantage. Glengar Silent did run on well to close again on the run in but the MWD partnership owned Proper Heiress would justify odds-on favouritism by a length in 29.78. Glengar Silent again caught the eye in second with Singalong Curly holding on for third by the shortest of short heats from Magical Sapphire a further two and a half lengths adrift.

Heat 4 – BRUNO BACK TO WINNING WAYS

An opening bend scrimmage had a huge bearing on the outcome in the final hat with Ballyhooly Bruno taking full advantage of an inside draw to turn within striking distance.

Oreo Ollie hit the front in the opening exchanges and would turn in front only to find Ballyhooly Bruno on his tail.

The latter hadn’t won in Shelbourne since late June but he displayed all his experience on the corner. Staying tight to the fence he nudged his way up the inside of Barefoot On Song, who was forced wide into De Lahdedah. Rural Pest and Coosane Pickles would also take a bump, effectively ending their claims. De Lahdedah came out worst of the traffic.

It was now clear that the winner would come from Oreo Ollie or Ballyhooly Bruno. There was two and a half lengths between them as they turned into the back straight but Ballyhooly Bruno quickly set about closing the gap.

By the third turn, the Tom O’Neill trained son of Jacob Tashadelek and Foyle Lucy had shot up the inside of the early pace-setter and he quickly asserted. Once doing so, the Ashgrove Trio Syndicate owned Ballyhooly Bruno would ease clear to eventually win by two lengths in 29.69. Oreo Ollie ran a big race in second with Barefoot On Song the same distance away in third.

******

MAJOR SHOWS REMARKABLE PACE TO WIN

Magical Major posted 29.45 in the opening round of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate so it was hardly a surprise to see him go faster as he justified odds-on favouritism in the first of the second-round heats.

What was surprising was the manner in which he won, coming from off the pace to still clock a fastest of the round 29.42.After a slow start from trap four, the brilliant young son of King Sheeran and Magical Mary found himself off the pace into the turn.

Southwood Stan and Razldazl Kamaria were far sharper at boxes but it was Grouchos Hoffa that went to the front into the bend. Magical Major has clearly been learning with experience and, despite the doors closing in front of him, he took a step to his right to make a move into the turn.

Still fourth as they began to swing left, he stayed wide of his rivals to dispute second into the back straight. What was to follow was further evidence of his potential brilliance. Showing huge pace to the third turn, he raced up to Grouchos Hoffa with relative ease before shooting through on the inside.

It would prove a decisive manoeuvre. Pat Guilfoyle’s star would ease on to win by three lengths with Grouchos Hoffa second and Southwood Stan progressing, two lengths further back in third. 

SIOUX IMPRESSES AGAIN

Supporters of Sunshine Sioux would have been delighted with what they saw in the early yards of Heat 2 as the Owen McKenna trained powerhouse again broke smartly to dispute the early lead.

Harlequin Gee Up would also aid his cause by moving wide from trap two, leaving Sunshine Sioux with plenty of room to get up to full stride.

Once forcing his way around in front, Sunshine Sioux was never going to be headed. Harlequin Gee Up did turn second and pressed to the third turn but it was futile. The superior strength of Sunshine Sioux began to tell as they turned for home. Stretching clear, Peter Comerford’s hugely talented son of Droopys Sydney and Susie Sapphire would ease on to win by an ever extending eight lengths from Ventry Faith in 29.48. Carrick Scholsey recovered from bad early traffic to take third, just three parts of a length further adrift.

AXEL SHOWS HIS CLASS

Ballymac Axel was simply too fast and too strong for his rival in Heat 3, charging to the front into the third turn before easing on to record a comfortable success for Murt Leahy and his lucky owners the JR Racing Syndicate.

Predictably, Easter Cup champion Hopes Teddy went up fastest and led the field around the turn but the wirting was on the wall for his supporters when Ballymac Axel stayed wide of the likes of Cagey Billy and Breaghmore Dice to go second before they hit the second turn.

Closing the gap quickly on Hopes Teddy, Ballymac Axel was in front by the third turn and drove further clear at this point. Staying on strongly, the son of Ballymac Cooper and Jaytee Pearl would eventually see off Hopes Teddy by five and a half lengths in 29.58. Cagey Billy was three parts of a length back in third.

******

A REAL SENSE OF JEOPARDY AS DERBY CONTINUES AT SHELBOURNE

With each week, the sense of jeopardy increases in the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.

Tonight, as the remaining 23 competitors arrive on track, each and every member of their support team would take third spot in tonight’s quarter finals.

Ultimately, only twelve will progress and there will be great disappointment and excitement in equal measure as the drama unfolds on the track. The undoubted clash of the third round was that of the UK’s best Proper Heiress and one of the very best on these shores, Cheap Sandwiches. Tonight, the pair have been kept apart and each is set to start odds-on for their respective assignments.

On top of the Derby action, there will also be huge interest in the second round of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate. Below is a blow-by-blow guide to the evening’s action.

SANDWICHES CAN ATONE FOR LATEST DEFEAT

Cheap Sandwiches may have suffered defeat last weekend but looked sharper and he has the perfect opportunity to return to winning ways in the opening heat.

 The 2024 runner-up will be odds-on to oblige and should he start on terms from trap five, is likely to go to the front early.

Standing in his way are some talented rivals, although none can boast the CV of the favourite. From the draw, Paul Hennessy’s Priceless Romeo and Barefoot On Song are more than capable of playing a part. They erace from traps one and two and need only concentrate on going up as fast as they can.

In contrast, Callaway Five in trap three and Unanimous leo in four will need to be at their very sharpest in the early yards. The latter was an impressive third round winner, shooting from the same trap to make every inch.

The presence of Cheap Sabndwiches is a concern for him as he would be vulnerable if faailing to dictate. Droopys Deploy completes the line up in the stripes and would be aided by any traffic on his inner. He will stay on well but may need to show more urgency into the bend to emerge a contender.   

In truth, Cheap sandwiches really should have too much for his rivals. He is chosen to take charge into the corner before going on to see off the well-housed Priceless Romeo and Barefoot On Song.

STUD TO IMPRESS AGAIN

The absence of Tarsna Maasai from Heat 2 is clearly a disappointment but, given his price, it won’t have much of an effect on the betting market with Ballymac Stud set to start favourite just ahead of magical Mag and Shanahee Boomer.

This is a truly fascinating contest with the opening five strides of great significance. Both Magical Mag and Shanahee Boomer are really fluent from boxes and are certain to race prominently but if Ballymac Stud were to match them from boxes, he would quickly emerge as the one to beat.

Blessed with terrific early speed, Liam Dowling’s hugely exciting youngster would be very difficult to contain if left alone in the first few strides. He displayed his awesome pace and potential in the third round when shooting to the front on the corner before running out a comfortable winner.

It would be no surprise to see him repeat that level of form or, indeed, go even faster. For that reason, he is selected to come home in front. As for Magical Mag and Shanahee Boomer, both are deserving of real respect given their current form but, if failing to dictate, would potentially find themselves under pressure with both Happy Jet and Blastoff Heffo certain to finish with purpose.

HEIRESS TO REMAIN UNBEATEN

Proper Heiress sent out a clear and very loud warning to his Derby rivals last week.

The UK’s best means business and after lowering the colours of Cheap sandwiches on his way to a brilliant victory in 29.27, he will start a deserving and hot favourite for Heat 3. 

The Mark Wallis trained star seems to have everything, trapping ability, early speed, pace down the back and strength. That bodes well for his Derby challenge, although he can’t take the foot off the pedal tonight.

He may have a kind draw on the fence and is certainly the one to beat, but nothing will come easy, especially if failing to hit the ground running. The presence of Singalong Curly on his right shoulder in two is a concern.

The latter now boasts a career record of five wins from six starts, each better than the previous. He posted a sizzling 3.33 sectional after a lightning fast start last week and could give the favourite plenty to think about in the opening exchanges. He is clearly a hugely exciting puppy for Pat Buckley and owner Gilbert Anderson and is greatly respected

The same can be said for his kennel companion Glengar Silent. He too has a massive future. He may still lack a yard of pace early but what he lacks to the corner he makes up for in the remainder of the contest. He charges through the gears down the back straight and stays on well. If the early pacers were to make any mistakes or get in each other’s way, he would be ready to pounce.

Cheque For Cash is also likely to attract some support. The Karol Ramsbottom trained star remains unbeaten in the Derby and comes into tonight’s contest in superb form. A trap four draw is a major worry but he has the early speed to overcome it.

Magical Sapphire is also in fine form and will surely stay on best of all but she really needs to be at her very sharpest in the early yards to land a blow. Phoenix Memphis completes the line-up. He may be available at a big price but is another with terrific early dash and it would be no surprise to see him figure.

It’s a fascinating contest but Proper Heiress has control of his own fate. If starting on terms, he would quickly seize control and is chosen to lead home the Pat Buckley trained pair of Glengar Silent and Singalong Curly.

PEST TO SOLVE RIDDLE

The final heat should offer a very fitting conclusion to the quarter final action.

The remarkable De Lahdedah will start favourite and is certain to have massive support. The evergreen son of Lenson Bocko has been running as well as ever, showing all the speed and strength needed to make a serious Derby challenge.

The draw is a concern for his many loyal followers, however. Housed in four, he needs to negotiate a clear passage into the back straight, something that has eluded him in recent outings. He will no doubt finish faster than any and will be very difficult to knock out of the frame but there is a strong chance one of his rivals will get loose on him.

Rural Pest is certainly one capable of doing so. So impressive in the early rounds of the Juvenile Derby, he has a near ideal draw in five. If producing one of his better starts, he could potentially set the pace into the back straight. In such circumstance, he would be very difficult to reel in. 

ON the inside of the track, Ballyhooly Bruno has a good make-up in one, while Barefoot On Song is another that could run well at a decent price. She is a very natural starter and it would be no surprise to see her playing a big part.

Oreo Ollie has fine early speed and can race prominently from three and could yet have a big ay in the outcome with the Jack Kennelly trained star more than capable of holding up the likes of De Lahdedah and Rural Pest.

Coosane Pickles completes the line-up and is always popular with punters. A big finisher, she seems to be returning to form with each run and isn’t easily dismissed.

It really is a puzzle and Rural Pest is chosen to solve it at the expense of De Lahdedah and Barefoot On Song.

EXPECT ANOTHER MAGICAL DISPLAY FROM MAJOR

The three heats of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate will provide the perfect lead into the Derby action itself and it would be no surprise to see any of the three heats winners going as fast as the Derby contenders.

Magical Major will tart a red-hot favourite in the opening heat but those that have followed his career to date will b concerned about a trap four draw. It won’t be an issue if he tidies up his starting but that’s a big if.

Blessed with incredible pace, Pat Guilfoyle’s charge is set to develop into a superstar and is selected to come out in front, although any mistakes would leave the door open for Grouchos Hoffa and De Bono Lad.

SCHOLSEY TO REVERSE FORM WITH SIOUX

Sunshine Sioux found his trapping boots in the opening round and posted a sensational 29.25.

His reward is a kind draw on the fence in Heat 2. If repeating his latest slick exit, he would almost certainly emerge on top but Carrick Scholsey is ready to pounce. The latter was second to Sunshine Sioux last week and is the more likely favourite. If getting to the front early, he can reverse form with Sunshine Sioux. Ballinabola Jim is selected as the one to follow them home in third.  

AXEL TO MAKE MOST OF DRAW

The final heat offers many possible outcomes, although the most likely is that Ballymac Axel returns to winning ways from a favourable draw in the stripes.

Easter Cup champion Hopes Teddy is the most likely pace-setter from two and must be respected but in a contest not bursting with early speed, Ballymac Axel can turn closer than in recent defeats. If doing so, he should prove too strong for Hopes Teddy and is selected to come home in front. Boylesports Blue is seen as a value alternative. With a clear run he too could have a big say.

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TARSNA MAASAI OUT OF DERBY

The sad news came through yesterday afternoon that Tarsna Maasai is out of the BOYLE Sports Derby after picking up a Gracilis injury in the third round.

Geoff Parnaby confirmed the news, stating it was a slight tear but was enough to keep him off the track for six to eight weeks.

It comes as a real blow to Parnaby with his talented son of Droopys Sydney only on the way back to his best. After picking up an injury in the Tipperary Cup at Thurles, Tarsna Maasai came into the Derby somewhat undercooked and his improvement through the classic is clear evidence that he was returning to top form.

Sadly, it wasn’t meant to be. Tarsna Maasai was due to run from the outside box in Heat 2. In his absence the trap will remain vacant. We wish the thoroughly likeable September ’22 whelp a speedy recovery and we look forward to seeing him back at his beloved Shelbourne Park in the future.

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IRISH FOCUS FEATURES DERBY AND MORE

The full third round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Derby will be reviewed on this evening’s instalment of the Irish Focus on sisracing.tv, but we also took the opportunity to take in much of the wonderful racing on offer around the country.

The Irish Focus will go live soon after 6pm so head over to https://www.sisracing.tv/tag/irish/ and remind yourself of what a wonderful weekend it was in Irish greyhound racing.

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HEIRESS AND SANDWICHES ODDS-ON IN DERBY QUARTER FINALS

After their epic clash on Saturday night in the third round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby, Proper Heiress and Cheap Sandwiches have been kept apart in the quarter final draw and both greyhounds will be odds-on favourite for their respective assignments. 

BOYLE Sports have issued prices for each of the four quarter finals and the aforementioned duo are the only runners set to start at odds-on. Cheap Sandwiches races in the orange jacket in the opening heat and is 1-2 to come home in front with Unanimous Leo next in at 11-2.

Proper Heiress will wear red in Heat 3 and is 8-11 to emerge on top at the expense of Glengar Silent at 4-1 and Singalong Curly and Cheque For Cash at 5-1.

Ballymac Stud, following his hugely impressive third round success, is 11-8 for Heat 2 where his main market rivals are Magical Mag at 2-1 and Shanahee Boomer at 9-4. De Lahdedah has been beaten in each of his last two starts but is the 11-8 favourite for the final heat. Of his rivals, Rural Pest is the nearest at 4-1. The full heat betting can be found below.

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

Quarter final betting from BOYLE Sports

Heat 1

8      Priceless Romeo

6        Lennies Dream

12        Callaway Five

11-2     Unanimous Leo

1-2      Cheap Sandwiches

14       Droopys Deploy

Heat 2

2           Magical Mag

14        Happy Jet

11-8     Ballymac Stud

9-4      Shanahee Boomer

16        Blastoff Heffo

33        Tarsna Maasai

Heat 3

8-11     Proper Heiress

5          Singalong Curly

33           Phoenix Memphis

5             Cheque For Cash

4             Glengar Silent

12           Magical Sapphire

Heat 4

6             Ballyhooly Bruno

5      Barefoot On Song

8      Oreo Ollie

11-8     De Lahdedah

4        Rural Pest

5        Coosane Pickles

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SANDWICHES MOVES TO TOP OF DERBY MARKET

Cheap Sandwiches may have suffered his first defeat of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby on Saturday night but still took over at the top of the sponsor’s betting.

This comes following the withdrawal of his old foe, kennel companion and last year’s champion Bockos Diamond and the elimination of Bombay Pat.

Cheap Sandwiches, who ran up last year’s renewal, is now just 5-2 to hand Graham Holland a fifth Derby title but he has a notable rival at the head of the market in the form of the UK’s finest, Proper Heiress. The latter lowered the colours of Cheap Sandwiches after an epic battle on Saturday and is now just 7-2 to go all the way. 

Behind the duo is the rapidly improving Ballymac Stud. He put everything together on Saturday and emerged a brilliant winner for Liam Dowling. As a result, he is now just 8-1 to land the Derby with his remarkable kennel companion De Lahdedah next in at 10-1.

Glengar Silent also displayed huge pace on Saturday night and is now just 12-1, ahead of the Maiden Derby champion Shanahee Boomer on 14-1. The full market can be seen below:

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

BOYLE Sports bet:

5-2        Cheap Sandwiches

7-2     Proper Heiress

8        Ballymac Stud

10     De Lahdedah

12         Glengar Silent

14         Shanahee Boomer

20        Magical Mag

20         Unanimous Leo

20        Coosane Pickles

25       Singalong Curly

25           Callaway Five

33       Lennies Dream

33           Rural Pest

33       Cheque For Cash

33        Droopys Deploy

33       Barefoot On Song

40         Priceless Romeo

40       Oreo Ollie

50         Magical Sapphire

50       Ballyhooly Bruno

66        Happy Jet

100      Phoenix Memphis

100      Blastoff Heffo

100       Tarsna Maasai

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BOOMER AND STUD FASTEST TO THIRD TURN

Honour of going fastest to the third turn on Saturday night in the third-round heats of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby was shared by Shanahee Boomer and Ballymac Stud.

Both were hugely impressive in their respective wins, and they became just the third and fourth greyhounds to dip under the 17 second barrier in this year’s classic.

Posting a rapid 16.99, they went just over a half-length quicker than fastest heat winner Proper Heiress, who moved well with a 17.03 return to the third turn.

Singalong Curly, after posting 17.27 in the second round, went over two and a half lengths faster as he posted 17.09, while both Magical Mag and Unanimous Leo led to the third turn in 17.14.

A full breakdown of the third bend leaders for each of the 8 third round heats can be found below:

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):

 

1st round

2nd round

3rd round

 

 

 

 

Shanahee Boomer

 

17.16

16.99

Ballymac Stud

 

 

16.99

Proper Heiress

17.20

17.33

17.03

Singalong Curly

 

17.27

17.09

Magical Mag

 

17.06

17.14

Unanimous Leo

 

 

17.14

Cheque For Cash

17.28

17.24

17.20

Oreo Ollie

17.17

 

17.28

Bombay Pat

16.96

16.90

 

Bockos Diamond

17.06

17.04

 

Toolmaker King

 

17.09

 

Solo And Go (F)

17.16

17.14

 

Magical Keith

17.09

17.14

 

Seven Beach (F)

17.22

17.16

 

Cheap Sandwiches (F)

17.22

17.17

 

Barefoot On Song

 

17.25

 

The Other Wild

 

17.27

 

Hopes Teddy

17.30

17.30

 

Phoenix Memphis

 

17.30

 

Droopys Patriot

16.93

 

 

Lennies Dream

17.04

 

 

Ballymac Danica

17.06

 

 

Hackney Corner (F)

17.07

 

 

Rolo Tokyo

17.08

 

 

Carrick Scholsey

17.11

 

 

Magical On Fire

17.17

 

 

Swords Style (F)

17.22

 

 

Ballymac Axel

17.22

 

 

Faypoint Ranger

17.27

 

 

Headleys Trump

17.28

 

 

Lookandlep (F)

17.32

 

 

Callaway Five

17.38

 

 

Brickhill Moana (F)

17.49

 

 

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HEIRESS AND SANDWICHES BUCKLE THE HIGHLIGHT OF DERBY THIRD ROUND

Bockos Diamond may have been missing but the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby moved to another level on Saturday night with the each of the third-round heats won in terrific fashion.

The younger contingent took their chance to step forward with puppies Ballymac Stud, Unanimous Leo and Singalong Curly all impressing but the headlines went to Proper Heiress as he made a case for being the best chance of a UK winner of the classic since Toms The Best landed the 1997 renewal.

Proper Heiress was simply outstanding in Heat 3 as he saw off Cheap Sandwiches in an epic encounter that saw the duo go toe to toe like two prizefighters. Below is a heat-by-heat guide to Saturday’s third round action.

Heat 1 – LEO POUNCES TO MAKE ALL

All evidence would suggest that Unanimous Leo is a real competition greyhound.

The winner of the Champion Open Unraced at Kilkenny, he would also reach the final of the Juvenile Derby before taking in the Derby.

In what was just his eleventh career outing, he displayed in the opening third round heat that he belongs in this type of company with a superb front running effort after a flying start. Racing from four, the son of Glengar Bale and Nice Mystery would flash from traps to dictate the pace around the turn.

Magical Keith broke smartly but could only turn second and was never going to worry the leader given his own stamina limitations. Instead, the eye was drawn to the stronger running Ballyhooly Bruno Magical Sapphire and Lennies Madge in behind although none could get close enough to threaten the pace-setter.

Trained by Pat Buckley for Ciaran O’Sullivan, Unanimous Leo would hit the line two and a half lengths to the good in 29.58. Magical Sapphire would stay on for second while Ballyhooly Bruno was just a length adrift in third. 

Heat 2 – CURLY HANDS BUCKS A DOUBLE

After racing as Sallagh Curly through the start of his career, Singalong Curly certainly didn’t seem to mind the name change in Heat 2 as he produced a thoroughly professional run for a greyhound so young to complete a rapid double for Pat Buckley.

Now under the ownership of Gilbert ‘Singalong’ Anderson, the hugely exciting son of Deerjet Sydney and Mydras Dawn would produce another paw-perfect effort. Hitting the ground running from the inside box, he soon had daylight on the chasing pack.

The Other Wild and Ballinabola Joe were expected to dictate the pace but neither read the script and it was Happy Jet, a kennel companion to the leader, that took up the chase. Singalong Curly was not going to be stopped, however.

Belying his youth and inexperience, Singalong Curly raced to a comfortable two length success over his staying on kennel companion Happy jet in 29.52. Blastoff Heffo ran on well to take third a further three lengths back.

Heat 3 – HEIRESS STEPS UP TO SEE OFF SANDWICHES IN AN EPIC

Bockos Diamond may have been missing from Heat 3 but it still managed to serve up the race of the Derby thus far with Proper Heiress (Droopys Sydney/ Powerful Mush) and Cheap Sandwiches delivering the most wonderful buckle.

This really was greyhound racing at its very best. Barefoot On Song made a brief cameo at traps, flashing from four to lead early but she was soon left standing by her more fancied rivals. Proper Heiress, with the inside line in his favour, flew into the turn to lead but Cheap Sandwiches was soon on his shoulder and pressing.

It was now race on. The Mark Wallis trained UK raider, Proper Heiress, would enter the back straight with a narrow lead but Cheap Sandwiches never gave him a moment. The pair, clear of the remainder, flew into the third turn with Cheap Sandwiches doing all he could to get back on terms.

That happened between the last two bends but, still, Proper Heiress gave his all and made full use of his inside pitch. With Cheap Sandwiches swinging wide off the final turn, Proper Heiress finally built a decisive advantage. Both ran hard to the line but the honours went to the MWD partnership owned Proper Heiress as he saw off his gallant rival by a length in a rapid 29.27. Barefoot On Song actually ran a huge race to finish just three lengths away in third.        

Heat 4 – BOOMER WITH A TYPICALLY PROFESSIONAL RUN

After the drama of Heat 3, the professional manner and straightforward nature of Shanahee Boomer’s success in Heat 4 came as welcome relief to those still breathless from the action fifteen minutes earlier.

The Maiden Derby champion again wore the black jacket of four and was soon in charge after another flying start. Trained by Kieran Lynch for the Bate The Ditch Syndicate, the talented son of Good News and Droopys Dream was always in complete control with his nearest rival the short runner Solo And Go.

Priceless Romeo and Coosane Pickles did finish with purpose to grab second and third but Shanahee Boomer was flawless as he won by two lengths and two lengths in 29.42. Given the winner’s professionalism and consistency at boxes, he is certainly worthy of a mention when attempting to pick out possible Derby winners.    

Heat 5 – PAT BOWS OUT AS STUD STRUTS HIS STUFF

Bombay Pat was promoted to Derby favouritism after the withdrawal of Bockos Diamond during the week but it sat heavy on his shoulders as he made his exit in Heat 5, missing the start before never really getting going.

In contrast, after catching the eye behind Proper Heiress the previous week, Ballymac Stud sent out a clear and very concise warning to his rivals that he is a serious Derby player for Liam Dowling. Fastest into stride was Lennies Dream from two but Ballymac Stud was soon showing wonderful acceleration to join his rival.

Running an exemplary opening bend, Ballymac Stud would quickly go to the front before opening up a near three length advantage to halfway. It was hugely impressive from the hugely promising son of Droopys Sydney and Ballymac Pete, although the contest wasn’t over yet.

Turning for home, Lennies Dream began to close on the leader but the gap was too great. Ballymac Stud would roll home a length to the good in a fast 29.37. Lennies dream ran a huge race in second while Rural pest stayed on to finish three lengths away in third, in turn knocking out his kennel companion Bombay Pat who would take fourth. 

Heat 6 – DEPLOY ARRIVES LATE

Droops Deploy found a way to win Heat 6 for Robert Gleeson and Paul Allen.

In what was one of the most competitive heats of the round, Oreo Ollie set the fractions only to be pressed by Callaway Five into the third turn.

There was a decent gap back to Upper Horgan and Droopys Deploy in third and fourth as they hit halfway but things began to get a little tighter into the third turn. As Callaway Five challenged on the outside of Oreo Ollie, the pair bumped, allowing Droopy Deploy, who had moved third, to draw closer.

Oreo Ollie battled his way back to the front to lead the field into the home straight but Droopys Deploy had the momentum and the son of Malachi and Droopys Charm stayed on best to lead twenty-five yards out to win by a half length in 29.91. Oreo Ollie was second with Callaway Five third.

Heat 7 – MORE CASH IN THE BANK FOR CHEQUE

Cheque For Cash (Dromana Bucko/ Paradise Asia) is one of the most straightforward and consistent greyhounds in training as he once again displayed in Heat 7, coming home in front of a talented field that included the warm favourite De lahdedah.

Owned by the Cash back Syndicate and trained by Karol Ramsbottom, Cheque For Cash was popular in the ring ahead of his assignment and he did everything right to justify his support. Breaking fastest from the inside box, he would quickly move into a comfortable advantage before going on to make every inch.

The race for the minor placings was far more eventful with De Lahdedah forced to pull out all the stops after finding himself in fourth after checking off the second turn. Tarsna Maasai would do all he could to close on the leader in second and was right on his heels into the third turn but Cheque For Cash kept finding up front.

Ballymac Tibet was in a qualifying position in third but while he stayed wide, De Lahdedah moved to the inside to unleash his traditional big finish. Cheque For Cash would go on to win by two lengths in 29.58 with De Lahdedah coming through for second. A half-length further adrift, the battle for third went to Tarsna Maasai as he contained Ballymac Tibet by a neck.  

Heat 8 – MORE MAGIC FROM MAG

Magical Mag seems to be in the habit of making things looks easy.

That was certainly the case in the final heat as she flew from the inside box to record a dominant success over the fast-finishing Glengar Silent.

Drawn on the fence, Magical Mag exploded from traps and was clear of the field by the turn. Phoenix Memphis turned second but he was brushed aside by Glengar Silent, who moved with real purpose down the back straight to go second before halfway.

Magical mag remained well clear but Glengar Silent flew home to close the gap. Magical Mag was never under any pressure, however, as she cruised to a most impressive two length victory for Pat Guilfoyle in 29.51. Glengar Silent again displayed his huge ability in second with Phoenix Memphis holding on for third, some six lengths away. 

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DRAMA EXPECTED ON THE TRACK IN DERBY THIRD ROUND

It’s been a newsworthy week in the BOYLE Sports Derby but the talking stops this evening as those lucky enough to remain in the blue riband will do battle for a place in the final 24.

The absence of Bockos Diamond leaves a gaping hole in tonight’s proceedings but there are a number of superstars ready to fill the void.

These include his kennel companions Bombay Pat and Cheap Sandwiches but don’t be shocked if a couple of others step forward. Below is a heat-by-heat guide to this evening’s third round action in the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.

MADGE REPRESENTS VALUE IN OPENER

The opening heat certainly promises to be a race of two halves.

Magical Keith may well start favourite and is certain to race prominently, perhaps along with Unanimous Leo and No More Fiftys but they can’t all dictate the pace.

Should the trio go to war, it could potentially leave the door open for one of the three big finishers, Ballyhooly Bruno, Magical Sapphire and Lennies Madge. One suspects the third turn will be every bit as important as the opening turn and there’s a strong chance one of the big finishers will arrive late and fast.

At the prices, the nod goes to Lennies Madge. Immensly strong, she will bid to stalk her rivals into the back straight before making a move from the third turn. Any traffic amongst the early paced contingent could see the field get pretty contracted into the third turn and that can play to the strengths of Lennies Madge. The Paul Hennessy trained powerhouse is chosen to arrive late and fast to deny Magical Keith.

JOE TO RETURN TO WINNING WAYS

Ballinabola Joe has been a pal to the layers in recent weeks, suffering defeat at short odds in both rounds to date but he is given another chance in Heat 2 where he is again set to start a hot favourite from the outside box.

Nothing will come easy to the Pat Buckley trained star but he is long overdue a better start and would have enough ammunition to account for his rivals if coming away on terms. The Other Wild is a potential banana skin.

Drawn in five, the Rural Kennels Open Unraced winner is very sharp and has been threatening to return to his very best. With a flying start, he could give the favourite plenty to think about. Singalong Curly (formerly Sallagh Curly) is drawn on the fence and is another with claims for Pat Buckley. He will need to match his latest slick exit if he is to follow up.

Of the remainder, Blastoff Heffo will finish with purpose and will be difficult to keep out of the frame if avoiding traffic, while Brunch Pal and Happy Jet have been running well and can’t be completely discounted either.

Much will come down to the start, but Ballinabola Joe is primed for a huge run soon. If it comes this evening, he will be very difficult to beat.  

SANDWICHES TO SEE OFF HEIRESS

The withdrawal of Bockos Diamond leaves a giant hole in Heat 3 that is likely to be filled by either Cheap Sandwiches or Proper Heiress.

The pair are amongst the very best in training and their clash is perhaps the standout of the evening’s action.

Prince Naseem and Barefoot On Song will attempt to get involved in the battle up front but the market will suggest it is a two-dog affair. Proper Heiress remains unbeaten in the classic and won’t be shy of support from trap two.

He was a lucky winner last week, when left in front at the turn after a slow start. He was racing in perhaps the worst of the weather conditions and did seem to get a bit stuck in the sloppy conditions own the back straight.

He can be forgiven for that run and is greatly respected but Cheap Sandwiches is on home turf and is chosen to continue his unbeaten passage through the Derby. Blessed with superb early speed, the brilliant son of Burgess Bucks can assert into the bend before containing Proper Heiress and Prince Naseem.

BOOMER TO FIND A WAY

Heat 4 is the most open of the eight with each of the runners holding strong claims.

Solo And Go is likely to set the pace but he is vulnerable from the third turn. With Maiden Derby champion Shanahee Boomer set to push him hard in the early yards, Solo And Go may be forced out of his comfort zone.

If Shanahee Boomer can find a way around Solo And Go without a hold up, he could then emerge as the one to beat although Lemon Joey and second round winners Priceless Romeo and Coosane Pickles are also big players in what is a really competitive affair.

Slight preference is for Shanahee Boomer but there is no chance of a surprise result with each of the six runners capable of going close.

BOMBAY PAT LOOKS THE PART

Bombay Pat is now clear favourite for Derby glory following the withdrawal of his kennel companion Bockos Diamond and can go some of the way to justifying his billing in Heat 5.

From an ideal draw in the stripes, he will bid to continue his march through the blue riband.

Standing in his way are a group pf talented rivals but whether any of them can match Bombay Pat into the turn has yet to be seen. Certainly, Rural Pest, Lennies Dream, Ballymac Stud and Hello Diego are all capable of a flying start but matching the favourite for pace into the turn is a different matter.     

Ballymac Stud has shown at times that he is capable of going up fast but needs to be at his very sharpest in what is the toughest test of his career. He ran an eye-catching race in defeat behind Proper Heiress in the second round and is clearly maturing into a top-class performer. He is nominated as the main threat but Bombay Pat can’t be opposed. Starting more fluently these days than in the past, he can sit close to the pace in the opening strides before hitting the turbo on the run to the turn.

OLLIE GETS NOD IN OPEN AFFAIR

Toolmaker King’s absence from the inside box in Heat 6 has thrown the contest wide open.

The layers have struggled to separate Callaway Five, Oreo Ollie and Droopys Deploy in the betting and each of the trio could come out on top.

Both Highview Plan and Upper Horgan will come home fast but one suspects it may be too late with one of the aforementioned trio at the head of the betting likely to get loose. The pin falls on Oreo Ollie and he is a tentative selection but nothing will come easy. Value hunters will take a second look at the fast-finishing Highview Plan.

LAHDEDAH REMAINS A STAR

De Lahdedah may be just a few weeks shy of turning four but he retains all his power, pace and incredible ability.

He is selected as the bet of the night in Heat 7 where he will look to slip around behind the likes of Cheque For Cash before making a decisive move from the third turn.

Drawn in three, the Liam Dowling trained superstar will need to mind himself in the opening exchanges but is likely to turn close enough. Cheque For Cash and Faypoint Harvey can race prominently on the inside and Tarsna Maasai in the stripes but the main threat to De Lahdedah comes in the form of his strong running kennel companion, Champion Plate winner Ballymac Tibet.

De Lahdedah can take charge in the second half of the contest before going on to contain Ballymac Tibet with Cheque For Cash nominated as the main threat to the duo. 

GLENGAR TO SILENCE RIVALS

The final heat of the round is another wide-open affair.

Had it not been for last week’s run, Seven Beach would have been a warm favourite but the manner in which he folded from the final turn is a concern. He is again a possible leader but looks vulnerable.

Magical Mag did everything right to contain De Lahdedah last week. She will need another flying exit to get off the front from an inside draw as Phoenix Memphis is likely to go up fast on her right shoulder. Westway Rossa can also go up well and is respected from three, while Hot Wood and Glengar Silent complete a talented field.

Hot Wood needs to return to his very best to land a blow but Glengar Silent seems to be developing into the star he has promised to be. The November ’23 whelp is almost a full year younger than the nest youngest runner in the line up and seems to improve every time he hits the track.

He will need to find a way to turn close, but he has terrific back straight pace and will be absolutely flying from the second turn. He is just selected ahead of Seven Beach and Magical Mag. 

******

TRAFFIC WARNING FOR THOSE JOURNEYING TO SHELBOURNE

Those journeying to Shelbourne this evening are warned that there will be heavy traffic in the area as well as traffic restrictions in place due to the World Cup qualifier between Ireland and Hungary, which is due to kick off at 7.45pm.  

The opening race at Shelbourne Park is scheduled for 8.03pm, which does allow a little extra wiggle room but it’s also worth remembering that we are straight into the BOYLE Sports Derby action so allow extra time to get to Shelbourne. It is certainly better to be early than late so get on the road a little earlier than normal.  

******

DERBY ACTION STREAMED LIVE ON SISRACING.TV

Of course, we advise everyone that can to make their way to Shelbourne Park this evening for the third round of the BOYLE Sports or indeed travel to one of the other tracks to watch via the intertrack service.

But if you can’t get to either, you can watch all the action live on sisracing.tv. Just click on the link: https://www.sisracing.tv/

******

SIOUX AND MAJOR SHINE BRIGHTEST IN DERBY PLATE

The opening round of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate was the feature of Friday’s action at Shelbourne Park and while there were five fine displays from the respective heat winners, the displays of Sunshine Sioux and Magical Major were the clear standout.

At just two years of age, Sunshine Sioux is far from an old hand but he does boast a bit of experience with fourteen starts under his belt. He has long been seen as a very fast greyhound, but he may have added another strioing to his bow if his display in the opening heat is anything to go by.

Normally a big finisher, he made a far faster start to hold a narrow lead into the turn. Carrick Scholsey also came away well from four but couldn’t get to Sunshine Sioux into the turn with the latter slipping around in front.

Those familiar with the powerful son of Droopys Sydney and Susie sapphire knew he wasn’t going to be picked up once doing so and he duly ran right to the line to contain the best efforts of Carrick Scholsey in second.

Trained by Owen McKenna for Peter Comerford, Sunshine Sioux would emerge two and a half lengths clear of his rival in a rapid 29.25. There was a further four length gap to Boylesports Blue in third. If the winner continues to show that sort of early dash going forward, he could develop into one of the very best in training. 

KAMARIA DAZLS

Epic Ace was an unbackable favourite in Heat 2 but a slow start and traffic ended his hopes.

In contrast, Dolores Ruth’s Razldazl Kamaria broke fastest to dictate the pace from the outset. Both Breaghmore Dice and Grouchos Hoffa pressed hard into the third turn but Razldazl Kamaria would kick again.

It would prove a decisive maneouvre with the son of Ballymac Best and Boylesportswink easing on to win by two and a half lengths from Breaghmore Dice in 29.96. There was a further head to Grouchos Hoffa in third. 

BIG JIM TOO STRONG

Ballinabola Jim would return to winning ways in Heat 3, showing all his strength and track craft to come through in the latter stages.

Harlequin Gee Up and Droopys Oratior took the field along but were always under pressure with the Brendan Muprhy trained Ballinabola Jim sitting in third.

Predicatbly, things started to get a biot tighter at the third turn with ballinabola Jim making his moev on the outside of the front two and De Bono lad forcing his way through on the fence. By the home turn, it was clear the winner was going to come from this duo.

De Bono Lad may have briefly got his head in front but Ballinabola Jim had momentum and he charged to the line to emerge a length and a half winner over De Bono Lad in 29.76. Droopys Orator was two lengths further back in third.

STAN SHOWS REAL DETERMINATION

Southwood Stan was particularly gutsy in the fourth race, showing fine early speed to get to the front before continuously closing the door on Cagey Billy.

Trained by Adam Dunford for Jonathan O’Grady, Southwood Stan would take charge halfway to the bend to lead Cagey Billy into the back straight.

The leader would swing off the second turn, leaving a gap up his inner, but Cagey Billy was immediately cut off as Southwood Stan came back towards the fence. Still, Cagey Billy seemed too close in second and he again challenged at the third turn.

Once again, Southwood Stan would cut him off. The son of Droopys Sydney and Southwood Queen was still in front on the final turn but Cagey Billy was still in hot pursuit. In a driving finish, Southwood Stan somehow repelled his rival by a neck in 30.17. Cloverfield Clan was best of the remainder in third, a length and a half further adrift. 

MAJOR PRODUCES SOME MAGIC

Magical Major had struggled to find racing room in his most recent outings around Shelbourne Park but that changed in the final heat with the immensely talented son of King Sheeran and Magical Mary charging up the fence to lead from the corner.

Pat Guilfoyle’s young star didn’t need a second chance. Quickly pulling away from the chasing pack, he had maters well in hand by halfway but still continued to pile on the pressure. The October ’23 whelp would hit the line nine and a half lengths clear in a quick 29.45. Hopes Teddy was second with Harlequin Paul another two and a half lengths away in third.

******

RUMOURS CORRECT AS DIAMOND OUT OF DERBY

The phone began to hop on Thursday evening.

The news was far from great. Bockos Diamond was a serious doubt for his third-round assignment in the BOYLE Sports Irish Derby. A flood of money came for Cheap Sandwiches and others in the Derby betting and it was soon confirmed that all was not right with Bockos Diamond.

The defending champion flew in a gallop on Tuesday but came off sore after a gallop on Thursday and the unthinkable seemed certain. Bockos Diamond would be withdrawn from the classic he won in such spectacular fashion in 2024.

Sadly, the news was confirmed on Friday morning. Bocko Diamond will not take his place in the third round, leaving a gaping hole in the classic.

There is no doubt, those remaining in the blue riband will quickly fill the void but it comes as a real blow to Graham Holland and all at Riverside Kennels, his owners the Remember Them Syndicate and to each and every greyhound racing enthusiast that wanted to see the sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat complete an historic Derby double. Alas, it wasn’t meant to be.

While the injury isn’t believed to be serious, we now face the prospect that with nothing left to prove connections may choose to retire their star. That is not something most of us wish to think about. We wish the champ a quick recovery and pray we will get a chance to give him the send of he so thoroughly deserves in the future.

******

BOMBAY THE CLEAR DERBY FAVOURITE

With the hugely disappointing news that Bockos Diamond has been withdrawn from the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby, his kennel companions Bombay Pat and Cheap Sandwiches are now the top two in the betting.

Bombay Pat is now just 5-2 with the sponsors to claim Derby success and it’s difficult to argue the fact. In sensational form at present, he is best positioned to capitalise on the withdrawal of Bockos Diamond.

After finishing runner-up last year, Cheap Sandwiches is now just 4-1 to go one better in 2025, while Proper Heiress is now shorter for Derby glory than any UK trained greyhound has been for many years at just 6-1.

Behind the trio is De Lahdedah at 14-1, Ballinabola Joe at 16-1 and Glengar Silent at 20-1. It’s 25-1 bar. 

The full market can be found at: https://www.boylesports.com/sports/greyhounds/future-dogs/shelbourne/boyle-sports-irish-greyhound-derby-2025

******

EPIC READY TO SERVE A DERBY PLATE ACE

Epic Ace, the last greyhound to lower the colours of Bockos Diamond, can play a starring role in the opening round of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate at Shelbourne Park this evening.

One of the very fastest greyhounds in training, his recent displays suggest he will be hard to beat in the competition if avoiding bad luck. Certainly, the pace he displayed in his second round assignment in the Derby was startling, although traffic would ultimately end his hopes.

A fortnight on, he has the perfect opportunity to get back to winning ways in Heat 2 of the Derby Plate. Set to start an odds-on favourite, the Pat Guilfoyle trained star can assert into the bend before coming home clear of Grouchos Hoffa.

MAJOR TO MARCH TO SUCCESS

Magical Major will also be fancied to come home in front for Guilfoyle, although he remains very raw. Even in his latest run at Limerick in a sprint contest, he threw away ground on the opening bend before powering clear to score. He has finally been handed the trap one draw he wants in Heat 5 but needs to avoid getting squeezed up by the Easter Cup champion Hopes Teddy - drawn in two - in the opening yards. Flight Club will finish fast and Harlequin Paul has fine all-round pace but Magical Major can come through this latest test to confirm his standing as one of the fastest and most promising young greyhounds in training.   

A CRACKING CONTEST

In terms of depth, the opening heat is the hottest of the round with Carrick Scholsey and Hackney Corner taking on the likes of Boylesports Blue, Sunshine Sioux and Ballymac Axel.

Much will depend on which of the big two in the betting gets first run. Carrick Scholsey is drawn on the right side of Hackney Corner but will need to come away racing.

He gets the nod over Hackney Corner but it’s possible they could have a protracted battle with the pair matched in many ways. Ballymac Axel and Sunshine Sioux can stay on strongly to battle it out for third spot. 

BIG JIM TO JUSTIFY FAVOURITISM

Ballinabola Jim may be showing signs of age but he continues to run with enthusiasm and he is chosen to come out on top in Heat 3.

From an ideal draw in the stripes, the Brendan Murphy trained powerhouse can justify short odds to see off the likes of De Bono Lad and Droopys Orator.

A REAL CONUNDRUM

Heat 4 is a total conundrum.

In fact, the more you study this contest, the more possibilities unearth themselves. In the end, the pin fell on Southwood Stan. A fast starter with an ideal draw on the rail, he could get first run on his rivals and is chosen to come home in front of Cloverfield Clan and Cagey Billy.

******

A LATER START AT SHELBOURNE ON SATURDAY

There will be a later start at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night with the first of the nine races on the card, Heat 1 of the third round of the BOYLE Sports Derby, due to go to traps at 8.03pm.

The action will be streamed live on sisracing.tv.

Those journeying to Shelbourne are also warned that there will be heavy traffic as well as traffic restrictions in place due to the World Cup qualifier between Ireland and Hungary, which is due to kick off at 7.45pm.   

Sat. 06th Sept.

Off

1

20.03

2

20.18

3

20.32

4

20.48

5

21.06

6

21.24

7

21.40

8

21.54

9

22.08

******

DIAMOND ODDS-ON TO SEE OFF SANDWICHES AGAIN

When the draw for the third round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby threw Bockos Diamond and Cheap Sandwiches together it came as no shock to anyone.

The pair have met numerous times in the past, most notably in last year’s final and the English Derby decider earlier this year, and the score is currently 5-0 to Bockos Diamond.

As always, BOYLE Sports were quick to price up the third-round heats and Bockos Diamond is an odds-on chance to bring the score to 6-0. Of course, it is far from a 2-dog race with the UK’s best Proper Heiress also in the line-up, as well as second round scorer Barefoot On Song, the second fastest second round qualifier Prince Naseem and Danzig Rebel, who ran a who race in defeat last weekend.

BOYLES have introduced Bockos Diamond the 4-6 favourite ahead of Cheap Sandwiches at 2-1, while Proper Heiress is 5-1 to claim his second victory over Bockos Diamond after his wonderful Juvenile victory at Towcester earlier in the summer.

JUST THREE ODDS-ON FAVOURITES

Just 6 of the 16 second round favourites obliged and it’s worth noting aside from Bockos Diamond, there are just two more odds-on favourites in the form of Ballinabola Joe and Bombay Pat.

The betting for each of the eight third round heats is posted below.

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby – Third round heats

BOYLE Sports bet:

(Prices correct at time of publication)

Heat 1

5       Ballyhooly Bruno

7-4      Magical Keith

5       No More Fiftys

4      Unanimous Leo

10-3   Magical Sapphire

8       Lennies Madge

Heat 2

4       Sallagh Curly

8       Blastoff Heffo

20     Brunch Pal

25      Happy Jet

5-2      The Other Wild

4-5    Ballinabola Joe

Heat 3

50      Danzig Rebel

5          Proper Heiress

20     Prince Naseem

25     Barefoot On Song

4-6     Bockos Diamond

2      Cheap Sandwiches

Heat 4

14       Maireads Diamond

4          Solo And Go

8          Priceless Romeo

5-2       Shanahee Boomer

3         Lemon Joey

9-4     Coosane Pickles

Heat 5

20    Lookandlep

8      Lennies Dream

9-2    Ballymac Stud

8       Rural Pest

8       Hello Diego

1-2     Bombay Pat

Heat 6

NR       Trap Vacant (Toolmaker King)

2         Callaway Five

2      Oreo Ollie

10    Highview Plan

10    Upper Horgan

2      Droopys Deploy

Heat 7

11-4   Cheque For Cash

8        Faypoint Harvey

EVS    De Lahdedah

3        Ballymac Tibet

33     Alva Mist

14      Tarsna Maasai

Heat 8

9-4       Magical Mag

8      Phoenix Memphis

9-2     Westway Rossa

10     Hot Wood

3     Glengar Silent

5-2     Seven Beach

******

TOOLMAKER KING PULLED OUT OF DERBY

Toolmaker King will sadly miss his engagement in the third round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night with Robert Gleeson confirming the news on Monday morning that his star had strained a hock in his superb second round victory.

Toolmaker King was the undoubted bright spot of the weekend for Gleeson who saw most of his team eliminated from the Derby. He is now down to just one runner in the shape of Droopys Deploy. Thankfully, Toolmaker King will be back in action soon, but the injury was enough to end his Derby hopes.

It comes as a real shame as his latest performance was evidence of the greyhound he will become. Certainly, he is amongst the most exciting young trackers in training and will be a star in 2026. We wish him a speedy recovery.

His absence means that only five greyhounds will line out in Heat 6 with the inside box vacant.  

******

DIAMOND STILL ON TOP BUT BOMBAY A CLOSE SECOND IN DERBY MARKET

Bockos Diamond remains favourite to capture the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby after his comfortable second round success on Friday night.

The sponsors reported strong support for the brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat ahead of his latest assignment and had already cut him to 4-1 but he is now just 7-2 to successfully defend his crown.

Bombay Pat has been imperious in both rounds to date and is now right on the heels of his kennel companion in the market. After setting standard in the opening round, he went even faster on Saturday, clocking a sizzling 29.17. As a result, he is just 4-1 to race to Derby glory.

Behind the front two is another of their kennel companions, last year’s runner-up Cheap Sandwiches, and UK challenger Proper Heiress at 12-1. Incredibly, three of the top four will meet in the third round with Bockos Diamond, Cheap Sandwiches and Proper Heiress locking horns on Saturday.

The only other runner currently available at less than 20-1 is De Lahdedah. The 2024 English Derby champion looked very comfortable in a narrow defeat at the weekend and continues to looks a strong challenger for Liam Dowling and the Garsuns Syndicate. 

Toolmaker King was at his best in the second round and was a notable mover in the market at 20-1, while Magical Mag, Shanahee Boomer, Ballinabola Joe and Glengar Silent are all on the 25-1.

The top end of the market can be seen below:

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

BOYLE Sports bet:

7-2         Bockos Diamond

4             Bombay Pat

12           Cheap Sandwiches

12           Proper Heiress

16           De Lahdedah

20           Toolmaker King

25           Magical Mag

25           Shanahee Boomer

25           Ballinabola Joe

25           Glengar Silent

33           Rural Pest

33           Seven Beach

33           Ballymac Tibet

33           Lennies Dream

33           Coosane Pickles

40           Priceless Romeo

40           Callaway Five

40           Hello Diego

40           The Other Wild

40           Ballymac Stud

50-1       bar

******

BOMBAY PAT QUICKEST ON THIRD BEND CLOCKS

Bombay Pat really was the star turn of the second round of the BOYLE Sports Derby, posting a fastest of the competition and a career best for the 550yd trip, 29.17 on Saturday night.

It comes as no shock that he also tops the third bend sectional charts with a sizzling 16.90 run.

It was a tremendous run but there is evidence to suggest he could go faster. In fact, in last year’s quarter finals he posted 16.85 on his way to a 29.19 return and on current form he could easily have a few more chances to better this year’s mark.

Second fastest to the third turn was a familiar name in Bocko Diamond. While still a long way off his best 2024 mark to the same point, there was something very easy about the manner in which he dispatched his rivals on his way to posting 17.04.

He was marginally faster than Magical Mag, who atoned for her opening round defeat when posting 17.06 in her impressive Friday night success. Toolmaker King was one of the best winners of the round on Saturday and he too displayed fine pace to record 17.09 to the third turn, although that run can be upgraded after he made a slightly tardy start and took a bump on the bend.

A full breakdown of the third bend leaders for each of the 16 second round heats can be found below:

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):

 

1st round

2nd round

 

 

 

Bombay Pat

16.96

16.90

Bockos Diamond (F)

17.06

17.04

Magical Mag (F)

 

17.06

Toolmaker King

 

17.09

Solo And Go (F)

17.16

17.14

Magical Keith

17.09

17.14

Seven Beach (F)

17.22

17.16

Shanahee Boomer (F)

 

17.16

Cheap Sandwiches (F)

17.22

17.17

Cheque For Cash (F)

17.28

17.24

Barefoot On Song

 

17.25

Sallagh Curly (F)

 

17.27

The Other Wild

 

17.27

Hopes Teddy

17.30

17.30

Phoenix Memphis

 

17.30

Proper Heiress

17.20

17.33

Droopys Patriot

16.93

 

Lennies Dream

17.04

 

Ballymac Danica

17.06

 

Hackney Corner (F)

17.07

 

Rolo Tokyo

17.08

 

Carrick Scholsey

17.11

 

Oreo Ollie (F)

17.17

 

Magical On Fire

17.17

 

Swords Style (F)

17.22

 

Ballymac Axel

17.22

 

Faypoint Ranger

17.27

 

Headleys Trump

17.28

 

Lookandlep (F)

17.32

 

Callaway Five

17.38

 

Brickhill Moana (F)

17.49

 

******

******

BOMBAY PAT SETS THE DERBY STANDARD AGAIN

The second round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby came to a conclusion at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night.

Despite windy conditions and some heavy rain at various points on the evening, there were some outstanding performances but the headlines simply had to go to Bombay Pat as he fastest of the Derby 29.17 in the first heat on the card.

It was the second week running in which the brilliant tracker would go faster, and he is now just 5-1 for outright honours with the sponsors.  

Others to impress included Glengar Silent and Toolmaker King, while Paul Hennessy recorded a fine double with Priceless Romeo and Barefoot On Song.

Faypoint Ranger T1, Prince Naseem T3, Sunshine Sioux T2, Bombay Pat T6 and Ballymac Tibet T5 race to the first Bend in Heat 9 Rd 2 of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.         Pic: Imelda Grauer

Heat 9 – BOMBAY CONTINUES TO PURR

After going fastest in the opening round, the Graham Holland trained Bombay Pat produced another faultless display to go even faster in the second round when coming home clear in Heat 9.

In fact, the brilliantly fast son of Pestana and Clear Mountain would post the fastest time of the Derby thus far, clocking a sizzling 29.17.

Breaking as smartly as he ever does, the red-hot favourite would quickly move through the gears to head the fast-starting Prince Naseem into the bend. The latter would run an incredible race to eventually finish second, although Faypoint Ranger would use his inside line to chase Bombay Pat into the back straight.

There was no stopping Bombay Pat as he galloped on relentlessly for his owners Pat and Justin Muldoon, but Prince Nassem would keep him honest. Moving past Faypoint Ranger at the third turn, Prince Naseem stayed on really strongly to finish just two lengths adrift with Ballymac Tibet running on well to grab third, some three and a half lengths further back.  

Heat 10 – ROMEO GUNS DOWN RIVALS

Priceless Romeo produced a power-packed display to win Heat 10 for the long-standing combination of Paul Hennessy and Bryan and Kathleen Murphy.

This would have been an especially satisfying result for the trio as he is a home bred son of Priceless Jet and Priceless Opera.

The Other Wild went to the front early, just clearing Cushie The Best on the turn but the writing was on the wall when Priceless Romeo moved second on the second turn. He had gone up in third before checking wide on the bend.

Despite this, he recovered well to move beyond Cushie The Best as they straightened up into the back straight. Once doing so, he always had his sights on the leader. The Other Wild did all he could to contain Priceless Romeo but it was futile.

Priceless Romeo went to the front between the last two bends before staying on well to see off another big finisher, Blastoff Heffo, by a length and a half in 29.63. The Other Wild would finish another two and a half lengths adrift in third.  

Heat 11 – NOTHING SILENT ABOUT GLENGAR

With each outing Glengar Silent seems to improve and that was certainly the case in Heat 11 as he mowed down Phoenix Memphis to emerge a comfortable and most impressive winner for Tom Nolan and Pat Buckley.

Phoenix Memphis predictably set the pace from an inside draw but he was a sitting duck when Glengar Silent went up a good second. Showing his now trademark back straight pace, the exciting son of Droopys Sydney and former Derby runner-up Singalong Sally would fly to the front by the third turn.

There was simply nothing Phoenix Memphis could do to counter Glengar Silent. Once going to the front, the latter eased right away in the style of a greyhound with a big future. The November ’23 whelp would go on to hit the line six lengths clear in 29.48. Lennies Madge ran on to take second, while Phoenix Memphis was just a head further down.  

Heat 12 – HEIRESS RIDES HIS LUCK

The Mark Wallis trained Proper Heiress would ultimately win Heat 12, justifying favouritism in the process, but he had a fair share of luck.

Left in front at the second turn after missing the start and looking in a battle to even qualify, his supporters will certainly feel they played the get out of jail card.  

Magical On Fire and Droopys Orator went up fastest, chased by Ballymac Stud but the trio conspired to cuase each other’s downfall. Magical One Fire had her heels clipped on the bend by Ballymac Stud, who was then forced to check wide, while Droopys Orator was also hampered although he did manage to lead around the bend only to find Proper Heiress up his inner.

The UK’s best was only fifth into the turn but, in a matter of strides, found himself in front. Taking over at the second turn, he seemed likely to run out a comfortable winner only for both Lemon Joey and Ballymac Stud to press him hard into the third turn and on the run for home.

Proper Heiress, owned by the MWD Partnership, would go on to win by a length and a half from Lemon Joey in 29.88. Ballymac Stud, despite finishing a length away in third, impressed in defeat.

Heat 13 – SONG ON TUNE

Barefoot On Song was at her very sharpest in Heat 13, exploding from trap three to dictate throughout, completing a memorable double for Paul Hennessy and Bryan and Kathleen Murphy in the process.

Ballinabola Joe was the red-hot favourite but failed to come away racing, leaving Barefoot On Song to skip clear into the bend.

By this point in proceedings, conditions were very tough as the rain continued to pour but Barefoot On Song made light work of the task at hand. The daughter of Grangeview Ten and Jaytee Osprey flashed from three to dominate.

Ballinabola Joe did make up eye-catching ground to sit a close second around the final turn but Barefoot On Song stuck on well to win by a length and a half in 29.90. There was an eight length gap to Maireads Diamond in third. 

Heat 14 – A REGAL DISPLAY FROM KING

Robert Gleeson endured a tough night on Friday but Toolmaker King gave him consolation in Heat 14 showing fine early pace and determination to get up the inside of the favourite Rural Pest on the corner before emerging a superb winner.

Willie Hyslop’s son of Droopys Sydney and Droopys Curio would force his way up the inside of the fast-starting Rural Pest to lead from halfway between the opening two bends. Once doing so, he quickly set about putting the contest to bed.

Showing fine back straight pace, Toolmaker King would open a decisive advantage before coasting home two and a half lengths clear of the rallying Rural Pest in 29.43. It was a fine display by the winner and one that highlights his Derby credentials. Behind the front two, Alva Mist ran on really well to grab third on the line, some five and a half lengths behind the runner-up.  

Heat 15 – ROSSA WINS IN STYLE

Westway Rossa was at her best in Heat 15, showing fine pace and determination to run down Hopes Teddy before going on to contain Magical Sapphire to lead home a 1-2 for the fairer sex.

Hopes Teddy broke on terms before moving to the front into the bend but he was always under pressure when Westway Rossa turned a close second.

The latter made her move into the third turn, rounding Hopes Teddy, while also forcing him to check. She was quickly followed by Magical Sapphire but the leader saved ground off the final bend, staying tight to the fence to extend her lead.

Running right to the line for Damian Maginn and Henry Scimia, Westway Rossa would emerge a deserving two and a half length winner in 29.61. Magical Sapphire was second with Highview Plan running on very strongly to take third a length and a half further adrift.

Heat 16 – KEITH GIVES RIVALS THE SLIP

Magical Keith displayed all his early dash to dominate in Heat 16.

A four-dog race after two withdrawals, he made full use of the extra room in the early yards, clearing the corner with a bit to spare. As his rivals clashed on the bend, Magical Keith took the opportunity to race into a commanding advantage by halfway.

Droopys Deploy did emerge from the pack and closed notably on the leader but Magical Keith was too far clear. Trained by Pat Guilfoyle for S Harvey, the son of Ballymac Cashout and Burgess Sarah would go on to see off Droopys Deploy by a quickly disappearing length in 29.69. No More Fiftys after his early traffic problems would take third, another seven and a half lengths back. 

******

MORE DERBY FIREWORKS EXPECTED

Further fireworks are expected at Shelbourne Park this evening as the second round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby draws to a conclusion.

Bombay Pat set the standard in the opening round and could well do so again from an ideal draw in the stripes but there are plenty of others capable of going fast throughout the card.

Of course, qualification is the main objective ahead of the third-round draw which will be held after racing. Below is a heat-by-heat guide to tonight’s Derby action.

PAT LOOKS BOMB PROOF

Bombay Pat was imperious in the opening round, getting loose into the turn to post a standard-setting 29.27.

Eight days on, he will be fully expected to get Saturday’s action off to a flying start when he lines out in the stripes in Heat 9.

Standing in his way are his kennel companion and Kirby memorial champ Faypoint Ranger and the Champion Plate winner Ballymac Tibet. Both are hugely talented but Bombay Pat looked a serious Derby contender last week and he can follow up in style.

Ballymac Tibet is normally a good starter but tends to lack a yard of pace into the turn. In contrast, Bombay Pat is an inconsistent starter but really flies into the bend. He is chosen to lead up on the outside of the track. Faypoint Ranger still looks short of racing. He will need to set the pace to land a telling blow.

Sunshine Sioux and Prince Naseem complete the field with Slipalong Duke reported a non-runner. If either are to play a part, they must reproduce their very best form. Bombay Pat is a confident choice to lead home Ballymac Tibet.

CORNER A WORTHY FAVOURITE

While only winning by a head, there was something very comfortable about the manner in which Hackney Corner won his opening round heat.

Showing superb early speed and real fluency around the opening two bends, he quickly mastered his rivals.

A similar run would see him justify favouritism in Heat 10. Drawn on the fence, he need only start on terms and he would become very difficult to contain. The Other Wild wears the stripes and is set to come on for his opening round defeat. However, he will need to be at his sharpest at trap rise as Cushie The Best will go up strongly from five.

Blastoff Heffo is a strong runner and could make the frame if avoiding traffic although he may need to get first run on Priceless Romeo. In short, Hackney Corner won’t be a big price but is fully expected to follow up his opening round success at the expense of The Other Wild and Blastoff Heffo.

MEMPHIS TO DOMINATE

Heat 11 is arguably the most open and competitive contest of the entire second round.

Picking a likely favourite is even difficult. Ordinarily, 2024 Juvenile Derby winner and Derby third Callaway Knegare would be strongly fancied but he really did look himself in the opening round.

If he were to return to form, he would take the world of beating but you need to take it on trust. Instead, after returning to his best in recent weeks, Phoenix Memphis makes more appeal from an ideal draw on the fence.

A fast starter with an ideal draw on the fence, he is the most likely pace-setter and could set a strong gallop for a long way. Glengar Silent is very exciting but needs to sharpen up at trap rise, while both Cagey Billy and Lennies Madge will finish with a flourish.

This really is a conundrum but slight the edge goes to Phoenix Memphis to make all to contain Glengar Silent and Callaway Knegare.

HEIRESS TO RULE

There is real quality on show in Heat 12 where the pride of the UK, Proper Heiress, takes on the likes of Magical On Fire, Ballymac Stud and Produce Stakes winner Lemon Joey.

Proper Heiress did so much right in the opening round, eventually running out a facile winner yet gave the impression there was even better to come.

For that reason, he is set to start a warm favourite and will be hard to beat from an ideal draw on the fence. Mark Wallis will be hoping he can come away racing. If doing so, he can quickly assert. Magical On Fire was a superb winner last week but will need to hit the ground running an clear Proper Heiress to the turn if she is to emerge on top.

Ballymac Stud is perhaps a greater threat. He ran well in the opening round, his first start over 550yds, and seems likely to improve for that outing. If he can get loose into the opening bend, he would certainly have a big say in the outcome.

Lemon Joey is also greatly respected. Murt Leahy’s star ran a big race in defeat in the opening round and is drawn to perfection in the stripes. If coming away racing, the son of Ballymac Best is also likely to play a big part. Proper Heiress is the choice but nothing will be easy in a race of this depth.

JOE LOOKS THE PART

Ballinabola Joe will be one of the hottest favourites of the night in Heat 13.

He left his chances at traps in the opening round but did show awesome pace to close on the leaders into the third turn. After qualifying in third, his reward is a kind draw in the stripes.

If trapping on terms, the Pat Buckley trained Champion 550 winner will likely to have too much pace for his rivals and can build a clear lead to halfway before cruising home clear. The battle for second and third could be far more competitive but Barefoot On Song is chosen to follow Ballinabola Joe home in second.

PEST CAN MAKE USE OF EXTRA ROOM

The withdrawal of Coloursaregreen from Heat 14 will have a huge bearing on the contest.

The extra room will certainly suit Toolmaker King but it will also play to the strengths of Rural Pest. The latter is set to start a far hotter favourite and will likely to fly to the turn from five.

With Toolmaker King expected to edge inwards from four, Rural Pest will have all the room he needs and can run out a comfortable winner at the expense of Toolmaker King. Hackney Tango and De Bono Lad can battle it out for third.

SAPPHIRE CAN SHINE FROM IDEAL DRAW

The penultimate heat of the round is a trick affair with many of those on show holding strong claims. Magical Sapphire was a superb winner last week and is perfectly drawn in the stripes.

She is the most likely favourite and will be hard to contain if turning close.

Westway Rossa is another capable of making a bold bid. She is particularly potent when she finds a way to turn in front and must enter calculations. Easter Cup champion Hopes Teddy hasn’t produced his best in recent months but his opening round success was encouraging.

If he can come on for that run, he too could have a big say from an ideal draw on the rail. He would almost certainly need to dictate the pace but given his brilliant early speed that is likely. Ballymac Lake is a real all-rounder and can’t be ignored while Highview Plan will finish at speed.

Picking a winner is no easy task but slight preference is for Magical Sapphire, who comes into tonight’s race on the back of two impressive victories.

FIFTYS TO FIRE

The final heart of the round should offer a fitting conclusion to the second round with so many in the line-up holding strong claims.

The betting reflects the open nature of the contest with Swords Style and Magical Keith disputing favouritism, just ahead of Droopys Deploy and No More Fiftys.

Droopys Slick and the fast starting Badly Behaving complete the line-up and neither can be ignored either. The race to the turn will be of utmost importance. Swords Style and Magical Keith will attempt to get loose into the turn but No More Fiftys has the benefit of an inside draw and after two eye-catching runs in defeat, he is ready to get his head in front.

If starting on terms, the Adam Dunford trained star can steal a march on his rivals. He is quick down the back straight and can contain his rivals before holding them off on the run in. Swords Style is in fine form and can emerge as the main threat, while Magical Keith can race prominently but is not the strongest stayer.

Droopys Deploy is perfectly housed in six but is inconsistent at traps and will need plenty to go right for him in the early exchanges. No More Fiftys is chosen to end the second round in style.

******

DIAMOND SETS THE PACE AS DERBY CONTINUES

There were a number of fine displays at Shelbourne Park on Friday night as the second round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby got underway.

The likes of Magical Mag and Cheap Sandwiches dipped under 29.50 but it was the defending champion Bockos Diamond that set the pace with a straightforward success. 

Heat 1 – SHANAHEE GOES BOOM

Maiden Derby champion Shanahee Boomer was back to winning ways in the opening heat, showing fine early dash to lead the field from the opening yards.

Lennies Dream went up second but lost her momentum as Shanahee Boomer cut the corner, while Droopys Patriot found little room to race after a tardy start.

As a result of all this, Tarsna Maasai slipped around on the outside of the field to go second but he was chasing shadows. Shanahee Boomer entered the back straight in a clear lead and he proceeded to dominate thereafter.

Representing Kieren Lynch and the Bate The Ditch Syndicate, the son of Good News and Droopys Dream would go on to win by four lengths from Tarsna Maasai in 29.63. Lennies Dream would race in third from the opening bend to qualify a further length and a half adrift.

Heat 2 – PICKLES LEAVES IT LATE

Clement Ryan’s Coosane Pickles (Droopys Sydney/ Droopys Pickles) may have been very lightly raced in recent months but gave notice that she maintains all her strength and determination in the second heat when coming from well back to beat Callaway Five and Seven Beach.

The last named was sent to traps the 5-4 favourite and seemed set to justify his billing when rocketing from five to set a strong pace. Callaway Five went up second with Coosane Pickles sitting off the pair in third.

It seemed as though the order was set although Seven Beach began to show signs of fatigue as he moved between the last two bends. In contrast, Callaway Five and Coosane Pickles seemed full of running.

Callaway Five got to Seven Beach inside the final twenty-five yards but he too was collared by the fast-finishing Coosane Pickles in a tremendous finish. The Michael O’Donovan trained Coosane Pickles would get up to win by a head from Callaway Five in 29.73. Seven Beach was just a half-length away in third.  

Heat 3 – MAG DIGS IN TO HOLD LAHDEDAH

Magical Mag came in for heavy support ahead of Heat 3 and her many backers were spot on as she flashed from traps to make every inch, although that doesn’t tell the full story of the race.

De Lahdedah would move into second on the run up and looked the most likely winner as they entered the back straight.

On the heels of the leader, De Lahdedah seemed set to make his move up the inside of the leader but that door was closed, forcing the 2024 English Derby champ to switch wide. It handed the initiative back to Magical Mag.

Pat Guilfoyle’s daughter of Bally8mac Cashout and Mystical Luna would again come under pressure from De Lahdedah in the latter stages but there was no stopping the leader. Digging deep, she held off De Lahdedah by a head in 29.42. The pair were three lengths clear of third place finisher Ballyhooly Bruno.

Heat 4 – DIAMOND WITH A POLISHED DISPLAY

A week after suffering his first defeat at Shelbourne Park and just his second on Irish soil, Bockos Diamond quickly got back in the winning groove in Heat 4, dispatching his rivals with relative ease in 29.40.

While it was much better from the sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow, it was still well off his 2024 best although there seems little doubt he is running himself back to full match sharpness.

Breaking smartly from six, Bockos Diamond soon built a clear lead on his fast-starting kennel companion Faypoint Harvey. It was little more than a procession thereafter. Easing clear to the third turn, he would gallop further clear of his rival to eventually come home seven lengths clear.

It was little more than routine for Bockos Diamond, yet it was the fastest run of the night to that point. Faypoint Harvey would cling onto second spot, holding off the staying on Happy Jet by a head.

Heat 5 – CASH FOR CHEQUE BACKERS

Cheque For Cash faced just three rivals in Heat 5 which didn’t seem likely to suit but he was at his professional best to emerge a good winner for Karol Ramsbottom and the Cash Back Syndicate for the second week running.

Sent to traps the 11-8 favourite, the son of Dromana Bucko and Paradise Asia didn’t fly from traps but did start on terms before showing his superior early speed. Hot Wood and Upper Horgan would turn second and third and threaten in the latter stages but Cheque For Cash meant business.

Sticking his neck out, he repelled the persistent challenge of Hot Wood by a length in 29.64. There was a similar gap to Upper Horgan in third.

Heat 6 – CURLY IS NO STOOGE

Sallagh Curly may be named after one of the Three Stooges but he certainly doesn’t run like them.

The exciting son of Deerjet Sydney and Mydras Dawn may have been having just his fifth career outing but he looked right at home in Heat 6, showing fine speed in the opening exchanges to lead a talented field around the bend.

Razldazl Kamaria would take up the chase down the back straight but Michael Lynch’s Sallagh Curly was not for catching. The Pat Buckley trained youngster would belie his inexperience by comfortably seeing off his nearest rival by three lengths in 29.72. Hello Diego, the hot favourite, would run on strongly to take second with a further three length gap to Lookandlep. 

Heat 7 – SOLO SAYS GO

Solo And Go displayed all his exceptional early speed to get loose in Heat 7, eventually clinging on in a desperate finish from the fast-finishing Danzig Rebel.

Trained by Liam Dowling for the Kingdoms Palace Syndicate, Solo And Go faced a tough draw in three but a flying start saw him dictate a strong pace in the opening exchanges.

Another Kerry based challenger Oreo Ollie gave chase into the back straight and stood out as the greatest threat to the leader. Despite closing in second, Oreo Ollie could never get close enough to pass Solo And Go.

Instead, Danzig Rebel, after racing in third for much of the way, came with a late rush to close rapidly in the final fifty yards. In a tremendous finish, Solo And Go would hold on. The son of Ballymac Best and Ballymac Minton would see off Danzig Rebel by a head in 29.75. Oreo Ollie was just a neck further back in third.

Heat 8 – SANDWICHES WITH A TASTY DISPLAY

There was real quality on show in the last of the eight heats and yet 2024 runner-up Cheap Sandwiches would emerge a comfortable and pretty straightforward winner for Graham Holland and the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate.

Importantly, both Carrick Scholsey and Epic Ace were tardy at boxes, leaving room for Cheap Sandwiches to get up to full speed on the outside of the track. Unanimous Leo also flew up from three and held a narrow lead in the early yards.

Cheap Sandwiches would join him on the corner, however, before easing on as they entered the back straight. The son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie would ease into a decisive lead down the back straight before coasting to a five-length verdict in 29.49. Brunch Pal would run a huge race in defeat, moving second between the last two bends. Unanimous Leo would finish a further length and a half adrift in third. 

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DIAMOND ON DECK AS BOYLE SPORTS DERBY CONTINUES

Last weekend’s evidence suggested that this year’s BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby is going to be hugely competitive going forward.

There were numerous superb displays but also many tight finishes and it is likely to be much the same at Shelbourne Park this evening as the second round of the classic gets underway.

Again, so many star names are on show but top billing goes to Bockos Diamond as he bids to put his first ever Shelbourne Park defeat behind him, although impressive opening round winner Rolo Tokyo is likely to emerge a worthy adversary.

PATRIOT TO SHOW HIS DERBY CREDENTIALS

All eyes will be on the inside as the hare approaches the boxes.

Lennies Dream was thoroughly professional in her opening round assignment, flashing from traps to dominate and her many supporters will be hoping for a repeat performance but Droopys Patriot will be a warm favourite.

The latter was having his first start over 550yds last weekend and looked a natural. Showing his trademark early speed, he left a talented field in his dust and he can follow up for Robert Gleeson and the Newmarket Racing Syndicate.

The recent Maiden Derby winner Shanahee Boomer is a professional at traps and can also race prominently but he will struggle to lead Droopys Patriot into the bend, while the same can also be said for Tarsna Maasai. Betgoodwin Ben will need to improve on his opening round effort, while Harlequin Paul will need a career best effort. 

BEACH TO COME FORWARD

The withdrawal of Fahee Phantom could have a bearing on the result in Heat 2.

His absence means that Seven Beach will have a vacant box on his immediate inner, leaving the Jennifer O’Donnell trained star a perfect clear path into the bend.

That could make all the difference in a race where there is real quality on show. Ballymac Danica was paw-perfect in the opening round but had no answer to Seven Beach in the Champion Stakes decider. Callaway Five has a kind draw on the fence but needs to be at his sharpest, while Coosane Pickles is exceptionally fast and likely to come on for her comeback outing in the opening round.

Even the outsider of the field, Swithins Jim can run meaning any mistakes could be very costly. Seven Beach doesn’t tend to make mistakes, however, and for that reason is selected to emerge on top at the expense of his old rival Ballymac Danica.

LAHDEDAH AND MAG TO DELIVER A GREAT BUCKLE

De Lahdedah and Magical Mag will dominate the market in Heat 3.

It may well develop into a two-dog affair on the track if they do things right in the early yards but it would be unwise to ignore the claims of Ballyhooly Bruno and Ballinabola Jim.

Ballyhooly Bruno ran far better than his opening round form suggests but he needs to be at his sharpest to reverse form with De Lahdedah. The latter remains one of the best in training and is so strong he can wait for the gaps to appear before making his move.

That’s exactly what he did last Friday and he is again chosen to race prominently before making a decisive move in the closing stages. Magical Mag is a serious rival, however. She stumbled at traps in the opening round and was always struggling to make up the ground thereafter. With a faster start, she can emerge as a serious threat to De Lahdedah.

DIAMOND SET TO SHINE BRIGHT

Everyone seems to have an opinion on Bockos Diamond at present.

Some say he’s not as good as he was last year, others believe he is and will bounce back from last weeks defeat. This scribe favours the latter view in the belief that he has been left short of work to give him the best chance of reaching peak form on September 27th.

No matter what you feel, he is the one to beat in Heat 4 where supremely impressive opening round scorer Rolo Tokyo is the obvious danger. Faypoint Harvey is also respected from a kind draw on the fence but Rolo Tokyo is clearly the main worry for supporters of the defending champion.

He displayed fine early speed to dictate from the start last week but it was the manner in which he stayed on to increase his advantage that was most impressive. He is clearly a serious tracker but Bockos Diamond remains the one to beat.

Despite suffering defeat last week, he still managed to post 29.45 and with natural improvement he could go considerably faster. He is chosen to make full use of his sensational early speed to dominate from the early yards.

CASH SET TO DICTATE

With both Untold Rufiyaa and Da Bold Falcon absent from Heat 5, Cheque For Cash will have all the room in the world up the middle of the track to set a strong gallop.

It is then a case of which of the big finishers turns close enough to threaten.

Toolmaker Josepe is definitely short of early speed but will finish with a flourish. He may have three rivals to pass, however, as both Hot Wood and Upper Horgan are likely to go up faster. Hot Wood certainly has the form in the book and is a big threat, while neither of Toolmaker Josepe or Upper Horgan can be ignored but the vote remains with the likely pace-setter Cheque For Cash to follow up on his opening round success. 

TRUMP TO SHOOT DOWN DIEGO

Hello Diego is a short price for Heat 6 and has outstanding claims.

He ran on strongly behind Bombay Pat last week, highlighting his well-being but his prospects will depend on how close he can turn. Normally a good starter, he tends to get a little outpace into the turn and with the likes of Lookandlep and Razldazl Kamaria on his immediate inside, that would leave him vulnerable.

Instead, the nod goes to Headleys Trump. The Lee Strand champion made a fine Shelbourne debut last week, leading early to repel the persistent challenge of the proven Tarsna Maasai. He posted 29.82 but there is an argument the track was running at its slowest at that point.

With a perfect draw on the fence, he seems certain to contest the early lead and can stay tight to the fence to move on, potentially building a decisive lead to halfway. Hello Diego will finish at a flourish but at the odds available, Headleys Trump is simply too big a price and is chosen to emerge triumphant at the expense of the favourite and Lookandlep.

AXEL SET TO CRANK UP HIS CHALLENGE

Ballymac Axel was already set to start a warm favourite in Heat 7 but his task has become somewhat easier with the withdrawal of Blossoms Syd from trap five.

With a vacant box on his left, Ballymac Axel will have plenty of room in the early exchanges and is set to turn close behind the likes of Solo And Go and Oreo Ollie.

If doing so, Ballymac Axel would quickly emerge as the one to beat. A real powerhouse, he will finish at speed and can pick up the pace-setters. Solo And Go is perhaps the most likely leader but he is vulnerable from the third turn, while Oreo Ollie would need to set the pace although he does have an ideal draw on the fence.

Both can give a good account but Ballymac Axel can again highlight his strengths and emerge a good winner for the second week running.

A WONDERFUL FINISH TO DERBY ACTION EXPECTED

The opening session of second round heats will come to a perfect conclusion with Heat 8 amongst the best of the Derby this far.

Epic Ace lowered the colours of Bockos Diamond last week and has been rewarded with a very tough draw in four with opening round winners Carrick Scholsey and Cheap Sandwiches to contend with.

Carrick Scholsey has been a revelation since the application of a middle seeding and a step up to 550yds. A winner in 29.33 and 29.42 in his last two outings, he is a serious contender for Derby honours. He does tend to take a step left at boxes, however.

That could leave Cheap Sandwiches with all the room he needs on the outside of the track. The 2024 runner-up blew away the cobwebs in a workmanlike opening round success and can only strip fitter and sharper. If doing so, he could remind everyone paying attention that he remains a leading fancy for this year’s classic.

Obviously, there is no room for error in such a race with Unanimous Leo also likely to race prominently but it is difficult to see beyond the big three. Epic Ace will need to be at his very sharpest from four, while Carrick Scholsey will again need to come away racing. Cheap Sandwiches is the safest bet and with the draw in his favour he is selected to emerge on top once again.

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DERBY NON-RUNNERS

There are a number of non-runners in the second round of the Derby with the latest confirmed withdrawals coming yesterday afternoon.

Coloursaregreen and Da Bold Falcon were confirmed non-runners yesterday morning before being joined by Da Bold Falcon and Blossoms Syd. It brings the total of reported non-runners to six. The six are as below:

Non-runners

HEAT 2 – FAHEE PHANTOM

HEAT 5 – DA BOLD FALCON

HEAT 5 – UNTOLD RUFIYAA

HEAT 7 – BLOSSOMS SYD

HEAT 9 – SINGALONG DUKE

HEAT 14 – COLOURSAREGREEN

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PHANTOM AND DUKE OUT OF THE DERBY

Following the withdrawal and retirement of Untold Rufiyaa, there are two further non-runners in the second round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.

Fahee Phantom displayed fine pace down the back straight in his opening round defeat, but he has been withdrawn from Heat 2, which is scheduled for Friday. He was due to race from four and that trap will now remain vacant.

The following evening, Slipalong Duke has been withdrawn from Heat 9, the first of the eight heats on the card. He too was due to race from trap four and that box will now remain vacant.

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CHANGE OF OFF TIMES AT SHELBOURNE THIS WEEKEND

Both Friday and Saturday’s meetings at Shelbourne Park will be streamed live on sisracing.tv and as a result, there are slightly altered off-times.

The Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby second round will be run over the two nights with eight heats on each evening.

On both nights the Derby heats will be run off as races 1 to 8 with the opener due off at 7.48pm. A full break down of the off-times can be seen below.

Shelbourne Park

Fri (29th) & Sat (30th) Aug.

Scheduled OFF

1

19.48

2

20.03

3

20.18

4

20.32

5

20.48

6

21.06

7

21.24

8

21.40

9

21.54

10

22.08

******

DERBY ACTION ON IRISH FOCUS

It goes without saying that the opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Derby will feature on this evening’s installment of the Irish Focus on sisracing.tv.

We will look back at many of the highlights over the two nights of the opening round.

The Irish Focus will go live soon after 6pm so head over to https://www.sisracing.tv/tag/irish/ and remind yourself of what a wonderful weekend it was in Irish greyhound racing.

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SPECIALS UPDATED BY SPONSORS BOYLE SPORTS

BOYLE Sports have been quick on the draw to update their specials. All the usual markets are there and there are some notable changes.

The track record to be broken is now 5-1 from 9-2, a bitch to win the Derby remains a 10-1 chance, while after performing well in the opening round it’s now just 6-4 about a bitch reaching the final.

Of course, a few big names did exit the competition and this has had a bearing on the trainer markets. After lowering the colours of Bockos Diamond in the opening round, Epic Ace is now even money to be Pat Guilfoyle’s top runner.

It’s no surprise to see the aforementioned Bockos Diamond remain a hot favourite to top Graham Holland’s contingent, although Bombay Pat is now considerably closer in that particular market. Hackey Corner is just 7-4 to be Pat Buckley’s top runner, while Lennies Dream is 7-2 to be Paul Hennessy’s best after a superb opening round display.

Lennies Dream also tops the ‘Top Bitch’ market at 7-2. She is just ahead of Ballymac Danica and Coosane Pickles on 4-1. The full list can be seen below.

BOYLE Sports Special Markets

Track Record To Be Broken During The Derby

5-1         Yes (28.94 current track record)

Winning Seed

4-6         Wide

5-4         Rails

16           Middle

A Bitch to win the Derby

10    Yes

Top Bitch (place terms: 1/4 the odds first 3)

7-2     Lennies Dream

4         Ballymac Danica

4         Coosane Pickles

8         Magical Mag

8             Magical Sapphire

10           Lennies Madge

10           Magical On Fire

16           Westway Rossa

16           Hackney Tango

16           Cosmonaut

33           Badly Behaving

33           Blackeyed Turbo

33           Desert Flower

33           Barefoot On Song

33           Brickhill Mona

A bitch to reach the Derby final

6-4         Yes

Top Patrick Guilfoyle trained runner

EVS        Epic Ace

4             Magical Sapphire

4             Magical Keith

4             Magical Mag

6             Magical On Fire

20           Prince Naseem

Top Pat Buckley trained runner

7-4        Hackey Corner

5-2        Ballinabola Joe

6             Hopes Teddy

6             Glengar Silent

10           Sallagh Curly

10           Unanimous Leo

14           Betgoodwin Ben

20           Happy Jet

Top Paul Hennessy trained runner

5-4         Lennies Dream

3             Hello Diego

4             Coloursaregreen

5             Lennies Madge

7             Priceless Romeo

14           Barefoot On Song

Top Graham Holland trained runner

EVS       Bockos Diamond

6-4         Bombay Pat

5             Cheap Sandwiches

8             Rural Pest

12           Swords Style

12           Faypoint Ranger

25           Faypoint Harvey

33           Bushpark Rodney

33           Fahee Phantom

******

DIAMOND STILL DERBY FAVOURITE DESPITE DEFEAT

Bockos Diamond may have suffered his first defeat at Shelbourne Park and just his second on Irish soil on Friday night in the opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby but he remains a hot favourite to successfully defend his crown.

Available at 9-2 with the sponsors ahead of the opening round, he is now 5-1 to complete an historic double. One of the big movers in the market was his kennel companion and fastest opening round winner Bombay Pat, who is now just 8-1 to win the blue riband.

It gets a bit tighter behind the front two in the market with impressive opening round scorers and Robert Gleeson trained kennel companions Carrick Scholsey and Droopys Patriot at 14-1.

2024 runner-up Cheap Sandwiches is alongside the UK’s Proper Heiress at 16-1, while four of the most impressive opening round winners, Rolo Tokyo, De Lahdedah, Hackney Corner and Epic Ace are available at 20-1. Lennies Dream and Ballymac Danica are the two shortest priced bitches remaining at 25-1. They are joined on that mark by Ballinabola Joe and Callaway Knegare.

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

BOYLE Sports bet:

5          Bockos Diamond

8          Bombay Pat

14       Carrick Scholsey

14       Droopys Patriot

16       Cheap Sandwiches

16       Proper Heiress

20       De Lahdedah

20       Epic Ace

20       Hackney Corner

20       Rolo Tokyo

25       Ballinabola Joe

25       Ballymac Danica

25       Callaway Knegare

25       Lennies Dream

33       Ballymac Tibet

33       Magical On Fire

33       Rural Pest

33       Seven Beach

33       The Other Wild

40-1   bar

******

BOYLE SPORTS IRISH GREYHOUND DERBY – 2nd ROUND DRAW

Friday, August 29th.

Saturday, August 30th.

******

PATRIOT SETS THIRD BEND STANDARD IN DERBY

As has become tradition, we will look back at the third bend sectionals after each round of the BOYLE Sports Derby and the dog to take the honour of going fastest in the opening round was Droopys Patriot as he posted a rapid 16.93 on Friday night.

Robert Gleeson’s charge was ultra-impressive, leaving some talented rivals chasing shadows. It was made even more impressive when you consider he was headed at traps by the fast-starting Faypoint Harvey but there was no stopping Patriot. Showing wonderful acceleration, the Irish Sprint Cup runner-up posted a 3.38 first split on his way to a most impressive victory.

Next fastest to the third turn and the only other greyhound to dip under the 17-second mark was Bombay Pat as he recorded 16.96 on his way to a fastest of the round 29.27 in victory. He too was racing on Friday.

Of course, Bombay Pat was also one of the fastest opening round winners in last year’ opening round and it goes to show the consistency of the very best in training with the Graham Holland trained star clocking 16.93 last year, some three spots faster than his latest run.

champion as regards the opening round was Bockos Diamond. He posted a sizzling 16.85 to the third turn despite making only a moderate start. It’s also notable that he went seven spots faster overall this year, confirming he is as good as ever. 

The fastest of Saturday’s competitors was Lennies Dream. She was electric from traps and maintained tremendous gallop throughout, posting 17.04 to the third turn before going on to win in 29.37.

Reigning champion Bockos Diamond wasn’t at his brilliant best in his opening round defeat but did run a very encouraging race behind Epic Ace. As it happens, the duo were side by side at the third bend marker with both posting 17.06.

Considering, Bockos Diamond holds the record third bend sectional with a scarcely believable 16.58 in last year’s semi-finals, it shows how much improvement there is to come from the brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat.

Others to move particularly well to the third turn included Ballymac Danica, Hackney Corner, Rolo Tokyo, Magical Keith, Carrick Scholsey, Solo And Go, Oreo Ollie and Magical On Fire.

A full breakdown of the third bend leaders for each of the 26 opening round heats can be found below:

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):

 

 

 

1st round

 

 

Droopys Patriot (F)

16.93

Bombay Pat (F)

16.96

Lennies Dream

17.04

Bockos Diamond (F)

Epic Ace (F)

17.06 (Inseparable)

Ballymac Danica

17.06

Hackney Corner (F)

17.07

Rolo Tokyo

17.08

Magical Keith

17.09

Carrick Scholsey

17.11

Solo And Go

17.16

Oreo Ollie (F)

17.17

Magical On Fire

17.17

Proper Heiress (F)

17.20

Cheap Sandwiches (F)

17.22

Seven Beach (F)

17.22

Swords Style (F)

17.22

Ballymac Axel

17.22

Faypoint Ranger

17.27

Cheque For Cash (F)

17.28

Headleys Trump

17.28

Hopes Teddy

17.30

Lookandlep (F)

17.32

Callaway Five

17.38

Brickhill Moana (F)

17.49

******

A BIT OF EVERYTHING AS OPENING ROUND OF BOYLE SPORTS DERBY CONCLUDES

The opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby came to a wonderful conclusion at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night and it provided some incredible racing action.

There was everything on offer, sensational displays, tight finishes, some real shocks, drama and it left those present wanting more.

There were so many superb displays but the honour of going fastest went to Rolo Tokyo as he made a statement in Heat 19 as he posted a brilliant 29.29 to establish himself as a serious Derby contender. It was also a big night for the ladies with four heat wins for Lennies Dream, Ballymac Danica, Magical On Fire and Magical Sapphire. 

Heat 13 – FIVE WINS FROM ONE

Callaway Five made the most of an ideal draw on the fence in Heat 13 to make his way to the front in the opening exchanges.

Prince Naseem was fastest into stride but couldn’t match Callaway Five for early dash.

Once going to the front, Callaway Five was always containing the persistent challenge of recent Munster Oaks winner Badly Behaving. The son of Ballymac Cashout and Clondoty Amy held a narrow lead down the back straight but once hitting the third turn, eased on to eventually score with a bit in hand.

There was traffic in behind the front two around the last two bends allowing Prince Naseem and Maireads Diamond to qualify but they were never going to worry the pace-setter. Trained by Owen Mckenna for Denis Murphy, Callaway Five would go on to beat Badly Behaving by three lengths in 29.86. there was a five length gap to Prince Naseem with Maireads Diamond fourth.

Heat 14 – HEADLEYS TRUMPS MAASAI IN A THRILLER

Headleys Trump (Coolavanny Hoffa/ Mercenary Mary) and Tarsna Maasai had a wonderful buckle in Heat 14 with little separating the pair from trap rise.

Importantly, Headleys Trump, who was making his Shelbourne debut for Nick Cotter, had the inside line and that would ultimately make all the difference.

Breaking smartly from four, Headleys Trump and Tarsna Maasai went to the corner side by side. Headleys Trump would emerge with a narrow advantage, which he would hold throughout. Barefoot On Song did close up behind the front two and looked a threat as they hit the final turn but the leaders kept finding up front.

In a tremendous finish, Headleys Trump would go on to see off his rival by a head in 29.82. Barefoot On Song would eventually finish just a length down in third with Glengar Silent fourth.  

Heat 15 – SCHOLSEY A SERIOUS PLAYER

Carrick Scholsey, much like his footballing namesake, is a serious player.

After impressing from trap five last weekend, he again relished the wider draw in Heat 15 showing superb early speed and pace throughout to emerge a facile winner, in turn justifying restrictive odds.

Under the guidance of Robert Gleeson for owner Thomas Glynn, Carrick Scholsey is most certainly a leading fancy for Derby glory and this was the perfect start to his campaign. Ballymac Kamala was his nearest challenger in the early stages but checked her stride off the second turn.

Instead, Fahee Phantom displayed plenty of dash to move second and did all he could to close on the leader but Carrick Scholsey wasn’t for catching. The son of Droopys Scolari and Droopys Beaufort would run out a most impressive four length winner in 29.42. Fahee Phantom was two lengths clear of the fast-finishing Happy Jet while fourth went to Untold Rufiyaa.

Heat 16 – TEDDY BACK TO WINNING WAYS

Hopes Teddy may have been lightly raced since winning the easter Cup earlier in the year but he blew away the cobwebs with a trap to line success in Heat 16.

Magical major was the hot favourite but a tardy start allied with bad traffic on the opening turn ended his Derby dream.

In contrast, Hopes Teddy broke fastest and quickened into a clear lead by the turn. Left further clear at this point he seemed certain to run out a comfortable winner but just couldn’t get away on his rivals.

Indeed, by the third turn his kennel much younger kennel companion Sallagh Curly was on his heels and closing. Hopes Teddy kept finding, however. Trained by Pat Buckley for Ciaran O’Sullivan, the son of Confident Rankin and Dolls Lady would stay on to secure a three parts of a length verdict over the fast-finishing Town Lucky in 29.96. there was just a half length to Sallagh Curly with Ballinabola Jim fourth.  

Heat 17 – MAGICAL CERTAINLY WAS ON FIRE

There was another wonderful finish in Heat 17 with Magical On Fire forcing her way past the hot favourite Rural Pest only to be pressed hard by the fast-finishing Cagey Billy.

In essence, Magical On Fire had to win this race twice for Pat Guilfoyle.

Rural Pest was sent top boxes the 4-6 favourite and all seemed to be going to plan when he shot from trap six to lead early but Magical On Fire was in determined humour. Going up fast along the fence, she entered the back straight a very close second and proceeded to match Rural Pest to halfway.

By the third turn she was upsides and, with the inside line in her favour, took over. Rural Pest attempted to rally, while Cagey Billy started to bridge the gap in third. In a superb finish, Magical On Fire ran right to the line to contain the advancing Cagey Billy by a short head in 29.67. There was just a neck to Rural Pest in third.

Heat 18 – DANICA DANCES IN

Ballymac Danica may have been off the track since the Champion Stakes decider but she looked razor-sharp in Heat 18, getting first run on her kennel companion Ballymac Stud and making every inch to claim a lucky thirteenth career victory.

The market certainly got things right with Liam Dowling’s daughter of Ballymac Cooper and Ballymac Arminta the big mover before going to traps joint favourite at 6-5 with her kennelmate. She would justify the support with a thoroughly professional effort.

Flashing from two, she quickly opened a two-length advantage on Ballymac Stud. The duo turned clear of those in behind and the order would never change. Ballymac Stud did run hard to the third turn but Ballymac Danica was up to the challenge, pulling out extra to maintain her advantage to the line.

Danica would go on to win by two lengths in 29.52 with Ballymac Stud just clinging onto second by a short head from the staying on Blastoff Heffo. Alva Mist would take fourth.

Heat 19 – TOKYO ON A ROLL

Rolo Tokyo couldn’t have been any more impressive in Heat 19, leaving a number of talented rivals chasing shadows as he posted a fastest of the night 29.29 for Damian Maginn and owner John Schofield.

From an ideal draw on the fence, the son of Coolavanny Hoffa and Oi Oi Upenalty was always likely to have a say but he turned this into little more than a procession. Flying up the fence, he was three lengths clear by the turn and would pound his rivals into submission with every stride thereafter.

Cushie The Best gave chase but couldn’t land a glove on the leader. The same could be said for Callaway Knegare in third. Indeed, the latter couldn’t even hold third with Upper Horgan running on strongly to finish just behind Cushie The Best.

They were all a long way behind Rolo Tokyo, however. Maintaining a relentless stride to the line, the May ’23 whelp would eventually hit the line seven lengths clear. Cushie The Best had a half-length to spare over Upper Horgan while Callaway Knegare was a disappointing fourth.    

Heat 20 – SAPPHIRE WITH A MAGICAL DISPLAY

Pat Guilfoyle was always destined to have a big say in Heat 20 with half of the field representing his Nenagh based operation and he duly sent out the first two home with Magical Sapphire outgunning her kennel companion and long-time pace-setter Magical Keith.

The duo broke fastest to dominate from the outset. Magical Keith showed the better early speed and would enter the back with two lengths in hand before increasing it to two and a half lengths by halfway.

Magical Sapphire was only readying herself for a big challenge, however. Closing on the leader into the third turn, she was poised to make her move turning for home and she duly outstayed her kennelmate to win by a length and a half in a fast 29.58. Magical Keith was second with Coloursaregreen finishing another three and a half lengths away in third.

Heat 21 – BRUNCH IN A BUNCH FINISH

There was no tighter finish in the opening round of the Derby than that of Heat 21, while it also provided some real drama with one of Ireland’s best over the past two years Boylesports Bob grabbing the attention of the stewards.

Brunch Pal would emerge on top, albeit the first five were only separated by inches. Razldazl Kamaria dictated the pace into the turn, pursued by Faypoint Ranger. The latter moved to the front off the second corner and set sail for home but he would struggle to get to the line.

Behind him, Brunch Pal would draw closer in third, while so too would Timmys Bucks and Boylesports Bob after early traffic problems.

In the most remarkable finish, Brunch Pal joined and headed Faypoint Ranger inside the final fifty yards. Timmys Bucks and Razldazl Kamaria also joined in, while Boylesports Bob was now hammering home on the outside of the field.

In the final strides, Boylesports Bob edged inwards, showing intent, squeezing up the field. Four greyhounds flashed past the line locked in battle with Faypoint Ranger just behind them. The judge was called into action, as were the stewards. Boylesports Bob was disqualified, while the judge declared that the David Murray trained Brunch Pal did enough to come home in front.

Owned by Anna Murray and Michael Malone, the son of Dorotas Wildcat and Bo Bobbity would emerge a short head winner in 29.96. Razldazl Kamaria was second, Timmys Bucks a head away in third and Boylesports Bob another short head back in fourth. Faypoint Ranger would progress in fifth as a result of the indiscretion of Boylesports Bob.  

Heat 22 – DREAM RUN FROM LENNIES

After the drama of Heat 22, the following heat was a far more straightforward affair with Lee Craze’s Lennies Dream earning the dream comments of fast away, always led. Droopys Deploy was favourite but a mistimed start cost him any chance of victory.

In contrast, Lennies Dream was lightning fast from three and never saw a rival. Born Braver and Da Bold Falcon turned closest but seemed to get in each other’s way on a couple of occasions.

Meanwhile, Lennies Dream was in splendid isolation. Maintaining a relentless gallop to the line, the daughter of Ballyhimikin Jet and Charming Pet would race out a facile scorer. The Paul Hennessy trained starlet would go on to beat the fast-finishing Highview Plan by six and a half lengths in a quick 29.37. Da Bold Falcon ran well in his comeback outing to finish just three parts of a length away in third while the fourth qualifier was Droopys Deploy.

Heat 23 – AXEL PUTS THE FOOT DOWN

Ballymac Axel was having his first start for Murt Leahy, his first start at Shelbourne Park and only his third ever outing on Irish soil in Heat 23 but it failed to stop him from emerging a superb winner.

Effectively a UK challenger for the JR Racing Syndicate, the son of Ballymac Cooper and Jaytee Pearl did everything right, coming away well to dispute the early lead before driving his way to the front on the corner.

Once doing so, it was all very comfortable for the powerful tracker. Cosmonaut ran a fine race for much of the way in second but was never going to worry the leader. Instead, Ballymac Axel stayed on powerfully to improve his advantage.

He would go on to cross the line by six lengths in 29.61 with the promise of much better to come. Cosmonaut was second with Magical Mag another length and a half adrift in third. Triangle Brando qualified in fourth.  

Heat 24 – LEO LEAPS TO LEAD LATE

After scoring earlier in the evening with Hopes Teddy, Pat Buckley and Ciaran O’Sullivan completed a double with Unanimous Leo in the final heat.

Lennies Desire was a hot favourite from an outside draw but he encountered bad traffic problems, ending his Derby hopes.

Solo And Go, in contrast, flashed from the inside box to dictate the pace from the opening strides although he was pursued by Juvenile Derby runner-up Unanimous Leo. This would set up a great finish with the duo having a great battle up the run in.

Ventry Faith would close on the front two in third but never get close enough to get his nose in front. Solo And Go continued to lead the field around the last two bends but Unanimous Leo wouldn’t be shaken off.

The son of Glengar Bale and Nice Mystery would finally get to Solo And Go in the final strides to win by a neck in 29.75. Ventry Faith was just a half-length behind while the fast-finishing Hot Wood would finish a close fourth.   

******

EXPECT MORE FIREWORKS IN BOYLE SPORTS DERBY

By the end of this evening’s action at Shelbourne Park we will have seen the BOYLE Sports Derby winner in action.

Friday’s action was of the highest quality with Bombay Pat setting a strong standard and it will be interesting to see if any of the many superstars in action tonight can go as fast.

There are twelve heats in all and it seems safe to expect many more brilliant displays ahead of the second-round draw after racing.

LILAC LOOKS A BRIGHT PROSPECT

Saturday’s action gets off to a flying start with a talented line-up contesting Heat 13.

To highlight the quality on show, the sponsors have installed the recent Munster Oaks champion Badly Behaving their 7-1 outsider.

It is a contracted market with Flashing Lilac the 2-1 market leader and she could well emerge as the one to beat if reproducing her latest effort when lowering the colours of Cheap Sandwiches. It’s difficult to believe that was her first career success but she left those on the stands in little doubt that she is a huge talent.

She will need to match that effort, however, as her remaining rivals are capable of going fast. Callaway Five and Grouchos Hoffa are nominated as the main dangers.

MAASAI TO SHOW HIS CLASS

Tarsna Maasai has shown on more than one occasion in the past that he is at his best over the 550yd trip around Shelbourne Park and his many supporters will ensure that he starts favourite in Heat 14 from an ideal draw in his beloved stripes.

A reserve will go into trap two after the withdrawal of Lemon Orla. The main danger to Tarsna Maasai is perhaps Glengar Silent. An exciting youngster with a Derby pedigree, being the son of former runner-up Singalong Sally, he has looked as though a step up to 550yds will really play to his strength. He has a massive engine but didn’t fly in his most recent trial.

Headleys Trump has some superb form and could get involved, while Barefoot On Song is capable on her night but from an ideal draw Tarsna Maasai is selected to dictate from the opening yards.

SCHOLSEY TO STRIKE

Carrick Scholsey made headlines after a stunning debut around Kilkenny in the Champion Open Unraced in early May.

He would ultimately run out of luck in that competition but came to Shelbourne and landed the valuable Summer Cup.

He would run out of luck in his subsequent starts before a return to his very best last week when a change of seeding seemed to do the trick. Showing alacrity at traps, he again races from five and is selected as the one to beat in Heat 15 where he faces some very quick rivals including Ballymac Kamala, Untold Rufiyaa, Fahee Phantom and trial stake winner Kereight Pimple. 

Much will depend on whether Carrick Scholsey can match his latest fast start but if doing so, he can quickly assert to see off Ballymac Kamala and Kereight Pimple, although none of the others can be completely dismissed.

MAJOR TO MARCH CLEAR

Easter Cup champion Hopes Teddy returns to the scene of his greatest triumph in Heat 16 and will certainly have support although Magical Major is set to go to traps a red-hot favourite after showing all manner of pace and promise in his five previous career outings.

The Pat Guilfoyle trained star has given the impression he is ready to step up on form and establish himself as one of the fastest on the planet. His ceiling is extremely high and from a relatively kind draw in four, he will be hard to contain if trapping on terms.

Of the others, Sallagh Curly is defending an unbeaten record but this is by some margin his toughest test, while Ballinabola Jim remains a talented tracker, albeit perhaps not the force he once was. Hopes Teddy is perhaps the most likely pace-setter but Magical Major is chosen to send out a clear and very loud warning to his potential rivals in the coming weeks.

PEST TO POUNCE

Rural Pest is set to start a hot favourite for Heat 17 where Body Mind Spirit and Bartlemy Mainoo are reported as non-runners.

It isn’t known which reserves will go in but Rural Pest will likely remain the one to beat.

A Juvenile Derby finalist after some stunning efforts in qualifying, he has the draw in his favour and is proven over the Derby trip. If starting on terms, he would prove very difficult to contain and can emerge a comfortable winner, potentially at the expense of Magical On Fire, although the ultra-consistent Leger finalist Cagey Billy can also make the frame.

BALLYMAC TO PROVE HE’S A STUD

It would be no surprise to see Liam Dowling have a big say in this Derby and he sends out two of his best in Heat 18 with Ballymac Stud and Ballymac Danica set to head the market.

Danica was last seen finishing fourth to Seven Beach in the Champion Stakes.

She has had her issues over the past year but remains a top-class performer. Her kennel companion Ballymac Stud is just at the start of his career and looks set to be a classic contender going forward. The longer run to the turn will suit the son of Droopys Sydney and he can dictate from the drop of the hat to justify favouritism.

Blastoff Heffo has a big engine and ran well in the recent Leger. He can emerge as the best of the remainder but it would be something of a shock if one of the Dowling rained duo didn’t oblige. Stud is chosen to lead home Danica.

KNEGARE READY TO GO DEEP AGAIN

Callaway Knegare was one of the undoubted stars of 2024, winning the Juvenile Derby and finishing third to Bockos Diamond in the Derby.

He is back for another crack at the Derby in Heat 19 and can show his class.

Lightly raced in recent months, he was third in the Shelbourne Open 600 and ran up the Race of Champions at Tralee. A recent 28.44 spin around Tralee would have blown away the cobwebs and he can take some stopping tonight.

Despite a tricky draw in four, he is chosen to race prominently before making his superior pace and power count from halfway. Rolo Tokyo has the best of the draw on the fence but will need to turn in front. Cushie The Best has tremendous early zip and would be a big player if repeating his best form while Cloverfield Clan and Barefoot On Fire has bits of form that would put them in the reckoning but the overall body of work from Callaway Knegare suggests he is the one to beat.

DUKE GETS NOD IN COMPETITIVE CONTEST

Heat 20 is one of the most open of the round with most of the field holding strong claims.

The Pat Guilfoyle trained Daleroad Duke is hugely talented but can be a bit hit and miss. If he hits tonight, he could be hard to contain from trap two but he needs to come away racing to clear his talented kennel companion Magical Keith.

A former kennelmate of the pair, Coloursaregreen, is also a big player especially if hitting the ground running from three. He is one of two runners for Paul Hennessy who also sends out the very strong Boylesports Blue. The latter is drawn in four and will need luck in running.

The third of Pat Gukfoyle’s runners Magical Sapphire has a great draw in the stripes but must be at her very best. Blossoms Syd will be a huge price, meaning it could come down to a shootout between Paul Hennessy and Pat Guilfoyle. Coloursaregreen can run well for Hennessy, but Daleroad Duke has done enough to earn the vote. 

BOB CAN SHOW HIS POWER

There is plenty of contrast in the style of racing of the big two in Heat 21.

Kirby Memorial champion Faypoint Ranger has exceptional pace to the third turn and seems likely to step up on recent form from an ideal draw on the fence. He has obvious claims but may find the powerful Boylesports Bob too strong from halfway.

The 2024 English Derby runner-up has been lightly raced in recent months but Paul Hennessy is expected to have his charge ready to race and he can show his immense power and pace to come through in the second half.

Daleroad Devon and Razldazl Kamaria can offer the most resistance to the big two but it’s hard to see beyond Faypoint Ranger and Boylesports Bob with the vote going to the latter. 

DEPLOY TO FOLLOW UP

Droopys Deploy finally returned to winning ways last time, emerging a comfortable winner in 29.44. That was his first success since capturing the Northern Puppy Derby at Newcastle in February. The draw couldn’t have been kinder this evening.

Drawn in six, he should comfortably lead up Highview Plan and Da Bold Falcon which should set him up for another successful run. Born Braver is a promising tracker and can emerge as a threat from the inside, while Lennies Dream ran well in the recent Maiden Derby but Droopys Deploy can be seen to best effect from the front. He is chosen to lead home Lennies Dream and Born Braver.

MAG TO PRODUCE SOME MAGIC

Magical Mag has been in electric form since late May, winning four on the bounce before running a huge race behind Bombay Pat last time.

Blessed with superb pace from start to finish, the daughter of Ballymac Cashout is set to start a hot favourite from four and will quickly emerge as the one to beat if producing one of her better starts.

Ballymac Axel is now under the care of Murt Leahy but has certainly been amongst the best in training in the UK over the past year. He challenged for Kirby Memorial honours earlier in the year, running out a superb opening round scorer before making his exit after finding traffic a week later.

He has a big engine and can certainly play a big part in proceedings if avoiding traffic. Shelbourne Park will certainly suit and he must be respected. Droopys Map is a promising youngster but this may come too soon. Magical Mag can lead home Ballymac Axel. 

DESIRE TO POWER HIS WAY TO SUCCESS

The final heat looks relatively easy to read with most expecting Solo And Go and Unanimous Leo to set a strong gallop.

Neither are particularly strong, and will b stretched by the 550yd trip and that will leave the door open for the immensely fast Lennies Desire and the talented Hot Wood.

Lennies Desire has shown all manner of pace in his previous outings and the Towcester track record holder will be very hard to contain if turning close to the pace. The Paul Hennessy trained star has all the pace required to go deep in the Derby and he can emulate his litter brother, Epic Ace by coming home in front.

Hot Wood can also outstay the early pacers to take third, while Solo And Go is chosen to cling on to take third behind the selected duo.

******

WHAT A START! – BOYLE SPORTS DERBY GETS UNDERWAY AT SHELBOURNE

The BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby got underway at Shelbourne Park on Friday night and it predictably threw up many talking points including a first ever defeat at the famous Ringsend venue for the reigning champion Bockos Diamond.

He had his colours lowered by the brilliant Epic Ace yet lost nothing in defeat, while the winner sent out a clear warning that he is a serious Derby challenger. So too did Bombay Pat as he set the standard with a facile 29.27 success, while others to go fast, and highlight their Derby credentials, included Droopys Patriot and the UK’s best, Proper Heiress.

Leaving the traps for Heat 1, Round one of The BOYLEsports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne Park (T1 Desert Flower, T2 Hackney Tango, T3 Daraghs Sydney, T4 Ballyhimikin Rio, T5 Flight Club, T6 Cheap Sandwiches)        Pic: Imelda Grauer

Heat 1 – BRIGHT START FOR SANDWICHES

After a shock reversal in his previous outing, last year’s runner-up Cheap Sandwiches made a perfect start to his Derby campaign in Heat 1.

Although headed at boxes by the fast-starting Ballyhimikin Rio, the son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie flew up the outside of the track to challenge for the lead on the bend.

Despite taking a bump, he forced his way to the front with Daraghs Sydney slipping around a close second. Hackney Tango moved third as they hit the back straight and the order would remain unchanged for the rest of the journey.

The Graham Holland trained Cheap Sandwiches didn’t put this one to bed to the third turn but did stay on well to increase his advantage from the final turn. Owned by thee Bark Wahlberg Syndicate, Cheap Sandwiches would go on to beat Daraghs Sydney by two lengths in 29.53. Hackey Tango was another length and a half adrift in third with Desert Flower sneaking through as the fourth qualifier.

Heat 2 – JOSEPE LEAVES IT LATE

Willie Hyslop’s Toolmaker Josepe left it late but arrived in the final strides to justify strong market support in Heat 2.

Brickhill Moana was a big price in trap two but set a strong pace for much of the way only to run out of steam on the run in.

Behind the leader, few could land a blow with the exception of Toolmaker Josepe. Despite being forced to check his stride on the turn, he was close enough to mount a decisive challenge. Closing into the third turn to go fourth, he was third by the time they hit the final turn.

Coming home fast, the Robert Gleeson trained son of Droopys Sydney and Droopys Dancert would take charge inside the final twenty yards to win by a length from Brickhill Moana in 29.95. Lennies Madge despite a less than clear passage would finish two lengths away third and Danzig Rebel fourth.

Heat 3 – PATRIOT SENDS OUT A CLEAR WARNING

Droopys Patriot was warm order in Heat 3 after his brilliant run in second in the Irish Sprint Cup and he proceeded to send out a clear warning to his Derby rivals that he means business.

In victory, he completed a rapid double for Robert Gleeson but also made it clear he can be a big player in the coming weeks.

Faypoint Harvey broke fastest from the inside box but the early speed of Droopys Patriot was pretty significant. Powering his way into the lead before the corner, the brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat and Droopys Alyssa quickly set about opening up a race-winning advantage.

Faypoint Harvey and Lemon Joey did all they could to close the gap with the latter moving second around the last two bends but Droopys Patriot, owned by the Newmarket Racing Syndicate, would make stride out to the line.

Clocking 16.93 to the third turn, he proceeded to hit the line two and a half lengths clear in a very good 29.30. Lemon Joey was second with Westway Rossa running on well to take third, a further length and a half back. Faypoint Harvey progressed in fourth.

Heat 4 – CHEQUE BACKERS GRAB THE CASH

Cheque For Cash has long been a model of consistency.

The professional son of Dromana Bucko and Paradise Asia was sent to traps the 11-10 favourite for Heat 4 and his early speed carried him to yet another superb success.

Trained by Karol Ramsbottom for the Cash Back Syndicate, Cheque For Cash was fluent from the inside box, moving to the front in the opening strides. The Other Wild went up in second but was forced to check at the turn as Cheque For Cash slipped around in front.

It would prove decisive as Cheque For Cash never looked under threat thereafter. The Other Wild chased hard throughout to take second but could never get back on terms. At the line the pair were separated by three and a half lengths in 29.75. Harry Houdini, a kennel companion to the winner, was three lengths back in third. In Good Time was fourth.

Heat 5 – AN EPIC RUN FROM ACE TO SEE OFF DIAMOND

The aptly named Epic Ace produced a brilliant run to inflict a first Shelbourne Park defeat on the defending Derby champion Bockos Diamond in Heat 5.

This would turn into quite a buckle with the pair racing miles clear of their rivals.

All seemed to be going to plan for Bockos Diamond as he broke fastest alongside Harlequin Gee Up before moving into the lead in the early yards. Epic Ace isn’t always the fastest into stride but, on this occasion, he did produce one of his better starts to quickly emerge as the only challenger to Bockos Diamond.

The pair bumped on the turn with Bockos Diamond taking a narrow lead before opening up by a length. It was short lived, however, as Epic Ace really got moving after halfway and got up the inside of Bockos Diamond into the third turn to take over.

It seemed certain Epic Ace would assert from this point, but Bockos Diamond did rally. Despite his best efforts, Epic Ace would go on to score, crossing the line a length to the good in a fast 29.38. It was a massive run from Epic Ace but also an encouraging run, albeit in a rare defeat for Bockos Diamond. There was an eight-length gap to Ballymac Lake in third with Shanahee Boomer progressing in fourth.

Heat 6 – BRILLIANT FROM BOMBAY

Bombay Pat is a fast greyhound. That has never been in dispute and the manner in which he dispatched a top-class field in Heat 6 is just further evidence of the fact.

After a recent pipe-opener when posting a fast 29.32, the Graham Holland trained son of Pestana and Clear Mountain went even faster on this occasion.

Breaking on terms, which is always a bonus, Bombay Pat displayed his awesome acceleration to go to the front well before the turn. It was all one-way traffic thereafter. Toolmaker King turned second but found himself under severe pressure from Hello Diego but it didn’t concern Pat Muldoon and Eugene Buckley’s pace-setter.

Despite tying up a little on the run in, Bombay Pat would run out a comfortable three length in 29.27. Hello Diego would run a huge race in defeat in second, while Toolmaker King would finish a further six lengths back in third. Priceless Romeo would join them in the second round.

Heat 7 – HEIRESS LOOKS AT HOME

Proper Heiress could yet develop into a serious Derby contender for the UK. He looked right at home around Shelbourne Park in Heat 7 when shooting from trap two to make every inch for the birthday boy and 15-time Champion Trainer in the UK, Mark Wallis.

Ballinabola Joe was the favourite but fluffed his line at boxes. Instead, Phoenix Memphis would emerge as the only real threat but Proper Heiress was never going to be concerned by those in chase once going to the front.

Owned by the MWD Partnership, Proper Heiress would keep his rivals at arm’s length throughout, eventually staying on strongly to win by an ever-increasing four lengths from Phoenix Memphis in 29.45. Ballinabola Joe did show big pace to close on the front two into the third turn but faded a little on the run for home, eventually finishing a further three lengths adrift. Sunshine Sioux was fourth. 

Heat 8 – DE LAHDEDAH STILL GOING STRONG

De Lahdedah had to be patient and show all his strength to justify favouritism in Heat 8 but it wasn’t a problem for the remarkable Young Garsuns Syndicate owned son of Lenson Bocko and Ballymac Sarahjo.

The in-form Oreo Ollie got loose in the early yards and led the field around the turn but he was immediately under pressure with De Lahdedah and Ballyhooly Bruno turning on his heels.

Oreo Ollie would prove a tough nut to crack, however. De Lahdedah attempted to slip up the inside of the leader at the second turn but it wasn’t to be with Oreo Ollie kicking again. Again, at the third turn De Lahdedah attempted to challenge but it was a similar story.

Indeed, Oreo Ollie led the field into the home straight where he made his first mistake, moving off the inside to leave a gap for De Lahdedah. The 2024 English Derby champion didn’t need a second invitation. Charging through the gap, the Liam Dowling trained superstar took over in the closing yards to claim a half-length victory in 29.53. Oreo Ollie ran a huge race in second with Coosane Pickles staying on well for third, just a length and a half further adrift. Ballyhooly Bruno was fourth.    

Heat 9 – LIFE’S A BEACH FOR SEVEN BACKERS

Seven Beach may be turning four next month but after capturing four major titles in 2025 already, he remains one of the best in training and he made the perfect, understated start to his Derby campaign in Heat 9.

Trained by Jennifer O’Donnell for the Beach Boys Trio, Seven Beach was a red-hot favourite and he made light work of his task. Showing his customary early dash, the son of Pestana and Whitings Gift quickly asserted at the head of affairs.

It was very straightforward thereafter. Harlequin Paul did show pace to grab second in the second half of the contest but Seven Beach would coast to a six-length success in 29.72. Slipalong Duke was three parts of a length away in third and Great Morning fourth.

Heat 10 – NO LUCK NEEDED FOR LEP

Lookandlep has shown a willing attitude in his recent outings and that was again the case in Heat 10 as he emerged on top to complete a double for Karol Ramsbottom.

Owned by Michael and Noel Nash, the son of Ballymac Cashout and Pennys Baccata found himself second into the turn behind No More Fiftys despite coming away racing from trap three.

But for the second week running, he forced his way past that rival on the bend. Betgoodwin Ben then emerged as a serious threat to the leader. Closing into the third turn, he briefly struck the front before the home turn but, again, Lookandlep wasn’t going to go down without a battle.

Digging deep, the September ’23 whelp rallied to again force his way to the front before going on to beat Betgoodwin Ben and No More Fiftys by a length and a half and a length in 29.82. Droopys Slick overcame a slow start to take fourth.           

Heat 11 – CORNER WITH AN IDEAL START

Hackey Corner may have been returning after a layoff but he had the pace and strength to get to the front early before containing the late charge of Ballymac Tibet in Heat 11.

Both greyhounds ran very well and never allowed any of their rivals get involved.

Ballymac Tibet was fastest into stride but Hackney Corner looked smooth into the opening bend, showing fine early speed to assert. With Ballymac Tibet turning second, it quickly developed into a two-dog affair.

Hackey Corner, owned by the Hackney Boys Syndicate, may have need the run but it wasn’t overly evident as he continued to gallop hard to the line. Ballymac Tibet began to bridge the gap off the final turn but the line came in time for Hackney Corner.

The Pat Buckley trained son of Here Comes Syd and Westpoint Jorgi would score by a head in 29.43. There was a three-length gap to Swithins Jim in third with Bushpark Rodney fourth.

Heat 12 – ANOTHER STYLISH RUN FROM SWORDS

Swords Style was one of the best backed greyhounds in the days leading up to the opening round and he fully justified his support with an emphatic trap to line success, sealing a treble for Graham Holland that had earlier been initiated by Cheap Sandwiches and Bombay Pat.

In truth, this was over as a contest after a couple of strides with the strong running Swords Style rocketing from the inside box to lead the field into the bend. Leger champion Drombeg Banner gave chase but he would run out of steam. Instead, De Bono Lad would take up the chase but there was no stopping Swords Style.

Barbara Lowndes’ son of Grangeview Ten and Emers Sally would power clear to win by five lengths from De Bono Lad in 29.56. The fast-finishing Doctor Darcy arrived late to take third, just a head further back. Blackeyed Turbo was best of the remainder.

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EARLIER START AT SHELBOURNE AS DERBY COMMENCES

With each and every race in the BOYLE Sports Derby streamed live on sisracing.tv, it’s worth remembering this will mean a slightly earlier start on each of the eight nights of the Derby, including this evening.

Tonight’s twelve-race card at Shelbourne is entirely made up of BOYLE Sports Derby heats and those venturing to Dublin 4 are warned that the opening heat is due off at the earlier time of 7.34pm. Make sure to get to HQ nice and early and best of luck to all involved. 

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DERBY NON-RUNNERS

As we post these words there are no non-runners in tonight’s heats of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby, although three have been confirmed for tomorrow night.

AS a result, no reserves can be named at this moment but the non-runners in question are:   

Lemon Orla (trap 2) in Heat 14. She can only be replaced by an inside seed.

Body Mind Spirit (trap 3) in Heat 17. She too can only be replaced by an inside seed.

Bartlemy Mainoo (trap 4) in Heat 17. He can be replaced by an inside or middle seed.

There are a number of reserves available and all boxes are expected to be filled.

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EXPECT A BRIGHT START TO THE BOYLE SPORTS DERBY

The journey to September 27th and potential Derby glory gets underway at Shelbourne Park this evening.

144 of Ireland and the UK’s fastest will journey to the famous Ringsend venue with their owners, breeders, trainers dreaming of landing the greatest prize in world greyhound racing.

With four to qualify from each of the 24 opening round heats, there is a little comfort for those taking their chance but it safe to expect a few big names to make their exit.

Of course, the greyhound that will attract most attention is Bockos Diamond, who bids to become just the second greyhound in history to defend his Derby crown after the legendary Spanish Battleship achieved the feat twice back in the 1950s.

Bockos Diamond is a deserving favourite and were he to defend his crown, he would hand his trainer Graham Holland a fifth Irish Derby title making his the most successful trainer in the history of the classic. Now that would be very special.

The best of luck to all with a runner in the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby. May they all come off the track safe and sound and here’s to the most incredible five weeks of canine action at the home of greyhound racing.

SANDWICHES TO SHOW HIS CLASS

Cheap Sandwiches has been one of the undoubted stars of the past year, finishing runner-up in the Derby last year and reaching the final of the English Derby.

 He suffered a shock reversal in his latest outing but will be a very short price to get his Derby campiagn off to a winning start in Heat 1.

Standing in his way this evening is the Leger runner-up Flight Club and the talented duo of Darraghs Sydney and Ballyhimikin Rio. There could be quite a battle for the minor places but Cheap Sabdwiches is chosen to give Graham Holland a perfect start to the Derby by dominating from the early yards.

SNAZZY TO BOSS AFFAIRS

The second heat is a far more competitive affair with little chance of an odds-on favourite.

In fact, there could be a battle for favouritism with Toolmaker Josepe, Lennies Madge and Snazzy Boss expected to atttract support.

Of the trio, Snazzy Boss has the best early speed and that could make the difference. Have no doubt, both Toolmaker Josepe and Lennies Madge will finish fast but Snazzy Boss is no slouch and he is another chosen to emerge on top for Graham Holland. Drawn in the stripes, he will habve room to race in the early yards and is selected to make all before containing the late charge of Lennies Madge and Toolmaker Josepe.

PATRIOT TO FIRE

Heat 3 is a stacked affair with most of the field proven at the highest level.

Produce Stakes champion Lemon Joey will have support, as will the consistent Faypoint Harvey and Westway Rossa but Droopys Patriot has come for strong support in the ante-post market after finishing second in the Irish Sprint Cup and the support can prove inspired.

Blessed with awesome speed to the third turn, he can make full use of the long run to the turn to go to the front. While he has been taking a stride for himself at the turn in Dundalk, the switch to Shelbourne could make all the difference and he can make all to lead home Faypoint Harvey and Lemon Joey.

THE OTHER TO RUN WILD

The bookends will dominate the betting in Heat 4.

Cheque For Cash races in the red jacket with The Other Wild drawn in the stripes. Both are sharp at traps, both have fine early speed and both would be hard to reel in if getting loose.

Th remaining runners aren’t short on talent either but one suspects it could come down to a straight shootout between Cheque For Cash and The Other Wild. The latter recently returned from a layoff to win in fine style before finding traffic in his most recent outing but he has shown enough to suggest he is going to return to his very best in the near future.

He looked a potential star earlier in the year, winning in the Rural Kennels Open Unraced at Clonmel and is selected to begin his Derby challenge with a success. Cheque For Cash and In Good Time can chase him home.

DIAMOND TO SHINE BRIGHT

The reigning Derby champion Bockos Diamond returns to action for the first time since finishing runner-up in the English Derby in June.

One of the most sensational Derby champions of all time late last year, he will understandably start a short-priced favourite although its possible he will be available at a bigger price than some expect with his recent trials under scrutiny.

Don’t be fooled by a couple of slightly below par efforts from the brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat. There is every chance Bocko Diamond will return to his very best and blow his rivals away.

These rivals include the recent Maiden Derby winner Shanahee Boomer, the hugely talented Epic Ace and the promising Ballymac Lake. All three have the ability to go deep in the Derby but don’t be fooled into thinking they can match Bockos Diamond if he puts his best foot forward.

In short, keep faith in Bockos Diamond. He can show his astounding early speed to get loose into the turn before burning off his rivals into the third turn. Shanahee Boomer and Epic Ace can chase him home.

BOMPAY PAT TO SHOW HIS CLASS

If all had gone to plan in the opening five heats, Bombay Pat could potentially be seeking to provide Graham Holland with a fourth winner in the opening six heats when he lines out in the orange jacket of five in Heat 6.

Amongst the very best in training over the past year, he recently displayed his well-being when emerging a superb winner over the Derby trip in 29.32. On that level of form he will be very difficult to stop.

Hello Diego is very strong and will finish fast, while Toolmaker King is set to offer the most resistance to Bombay Pat in the early yards. Southwood Stan can also go up fast but will need to be at his very best to land a blow.

Bombay Pat has awesome pace and can use it to great effect, turning close before moving to the front before the third turn. Toolmaker King can emerge as the greatest threat from four.

HEIRESS AND JOE CLASH

Proper Heiress is perhaps the most interesting runner in the Derby.

Representing fifteen-time champion trainer in the UK Mark Wallis, he makes his Irish return in Heat 7 where he will be amongst the favourites alongside Ballinabola Joe.

Throw in Sunshine Sioux, Phoenix Memphis and Fun Inthe Run and it is quite a contest. Much will depend on the opening exchanges. For supporters of Proper Heiress, the presence of Phoenix Memphis in three is a concern.

A fast starter than edges inwards, Phoenix Memphis could possibly leave Proper Heiress short of room. That is why the vote goes to the Champion 550 winner Ballinabola Joe. He has astounding pace to the third turn when on song and is ideally drawn to get loose in the opening exchanges. He can lead home Proper Heiress and the strong running Sunshine Sioux. 

LAHDEDAH WITH THE DRAW

De Lahdedah has been nothing short of brilliant throughout his career.

As a raw youngster he was a Derby semi-finalist only to suffer bad luck. He would capture the English Derby the following summer before returning to Towcester this year where he again reached the final. running a huge race in defeat.

Tonight, he returns to racing action and will be a warm favourite to win Heat 8 from an ideal draw on the fence. With a fast start h could quickly emerge as the one to beat but this is no straightforward task with some hugely talented rivals in opposition. These include his fellow  English Derby finalist Sole Mio, Shelbourne 600 champion Ballyhooly Bruno, the brilliant Coosane Pickles and Oreo Ollie.

It is a tremendous contest, perhaps the best of the round but De Lahdedah remains a potent force and he can lead home Sole Mio and Ballyhooly Bruno to begin another Derby campaign on the back of a victory.

BEACH READY TO ROCK

In a year when he captured the Champion Stakes, Race of Champions, Select Stakes and Gold Cup, Seven Beach is expected to start one of the hottest favourites of the opening round in Heat 9.

The brilliant tracker has twice reached the semi-finals of the Derby and his legion of supporters will again believe he can go at least that far again. Expect the near veteran to dominate from the outset this evening. He can lead home impressive Puppy Oaks winner Shebetheone.

PUPPIES SET TO SHINE

The pups will dominate the market ahead of Heat 10 with Droopys Slick, Betgoodwin Ben and Lookandlep all expected to play a big part.

Slight preference is for the duo on the outside of the track, Betgoodwin Ben and Droopys Slick.

The first named looked a real prospect around Enniscorthy, posting a sizzling 28.58 on debut. He moved well in recent trials at Shelbourne and is a leading fancy but Droopys Slick has also shown huge promise albeit he remains a maiden.

He is drawn on the inside of Betgoodwin Ben in five and that could make the difference. If starting on terms, he could get first run on his rival and that can prove decisive. The Robert Gleeson trained youngster can come home clear for the first time in his career.

HACKNEY TO TAKE THE CORNER

Heat 11 is another packed with quality.

Bubbly Charger ran with real credit in the English Derby, backing up his Kirby Memorial efforts where he emerged as runner-up. Ballymac Tibet has developed into a star, winning the Champion Plate before going all the way to the final in the Juvenile Derby, while So Cool boasts some superb form in the UK.

Hackney Corner is the one to beat, however. Known formerly as Left Corner Back, he has shown real ability in his relatively short career. A good starter with fine pace throughout, he is chosen to assert into the bend before seeing off Ballymac Tibet and Bubbly Charger. 

EXPECT A STYLISH EFFORT FROM SWORDS

Swords Style did so much right in his latest outing, running own Magical Keith to win in 29.59.

In victory, he displayed fine pace and strength. It was just his seventh career outing but it’s clear he is a puppy with a bright future.

He lines out in the red jacket and is perhaps in the perfect position to chase the Leger champion Droopys Banner into the back straight. The latter will have plenty of support and is the most likely pace-setter but he is vulnerable from the third turn. 

Swords Style is chosen to take advantage of these vulnerabilities and can come through in the closing stages to score. Others respected include the fast finishing Doctor Darcy and De Bono Lad who ran a big race behind Swords Style last time. 

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DERBY SPECIALS ON OFFER FROM SPONSORS

Once again, sponsors BOYLE Sports have been busy putting together a long list of special bets ahead of the start of the Derby.

There is the usual Top Bitch market which is headed by the talented duo of Ballymac Danica and Flashing Lilac. Both are available at 6-1. The only other bitch at single figure odds is Puppy Oaks winner Shebetheone at 8-1.

As you would expect, they have also priced up the track record to be broken through the competition, meaning one of the 144 starters would need to post 28.93 or better. A 10-1 chance ahead of last year’s Derby, Bockos Diamond twice went lower than the previous mark.

Graham Holland’s sensational tracker is back this year and is perhaps the main reason the track record is only 5-1 to be broken. 

There are specials on a dog to go unbeaten through the competition, a greyhound to make the final without winning a heat and a dog to win the final after failing to win a heat.

After last year’s domination, a wide seed to win the final is red-hot favourite in the winning seed market at 4-6. An inside seed to emerge on top is 5-4, while you can have 16-1 about a middle seed emerging on top.

There are also a number of other markets including winning trainer. If you want to back a greyhound to go furthest from one of the kennels with multiple entries you can also do so. A full list of all the specials can be seen below: 

BOYLE Sports Derby Specials

Winning Trainer

6-4         Graham Holland

4             Liam Dowling

5             Paul Hennessy

5             Patrick Guilfoyle

5             Pat Buckley

6             Robert Gleeson

12           Owen McKenna

14           Jennifer O'Donnell

20           Murt Leahy

25           Peter Cronin

25           Karol Ramsbottom

25           Michael J O'Donovan

25           Brendan Matthews

33           Tom O'Neill

33           Shaun Conway

33           Damien Maginn

40           John McGee

66           Adam Dunford

66           Gerry Holian

80           Scott Phelan

Track Record To Be Broken During The Derby

9-2         Yes (28.94 current track record)

Winning Seed

4-6         Wide

5-4         Rails

16           Middle

A Bitch to win the Derby

10    Yes

Top Bitch (place terms: 1/4 the odds first 3)

6             Ballymac Danica

6             Flashing Lilac

8             Shebetheone

10           Magical Mag

10           Magical Sapphire

10           Coosane Pickles

12           Lennies Madge

12           Hackney Tango

12           Magical On Fire

12           Ballymac Kamala

12           Lemon Orla

14           Lennies Dream

14           Westway Rossa

20           Barefoot On Song

25           Cosmonaut

25           Blackeyed Turbo

25           Badly Behaving

25           Desert Flower

33           Body Mind Spirit

33           Ardera Freya

33           Omey Mist

50           Bowadis Raven

50           Da Bold Rose

50           Drveen Lass

66           Cashout Girl

100        Brickhill Mona

Derby winner to go unbeaten through every round

5-1

A greyhound to make the final without winning a heat

6-4    Yes

A greyhound to win the Derby without winning a heat

33-1   Yes

A bitch to reach the Derby final

2-1         Yes

Top Patrick Guilfoyle trained runner

6-4         Magical Major

5             Epic Ace

6             Daleroad Duke

6             Magical Mag

8             Magical Keith

8             Magical On Fire

10           Magical Sapphire

16           Daleroad Devon

33           Prince Naseem

Top Pat Buckley trained runner

3             Hackey Corner

3             Ballinabola Joe

5             Flashing Lilac

6             Glengar Silent

6             Unanimous Leo

10           Hopes Teddy

14           Betgoodwin Ben

14           Sallagh Curly

16           So Cool

20           Happy Jet

Top Paul Hennessy trained runner

6-4         Lennies Desire

4             BoyleSports Bob

5             Hello Diego

8             Coloursaregreen

8             Lennies Dream

14           Barefoot On Fire

14           Lennies Madge

16           Priceless Romeo

20           Flight Club

20           Barefoot On Song

20           BoyleSports Blue

Top Graham Holland trained runner

EVS        Bockos Diamond

4             Bombay Pat

4             Cheap Sandwiches

6             Rural Pest

12           Faypoint Ranger

20           Swords Style

20           Faypoint Harvey

25           Bushpark Rodney

25           Snazzy Boss

33           Fahee Phantom

33           Bartlemy Mainoo

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DIAMOND GOES INTO DERBY A RED-HOT FAVOURITE AGAIN

There is a real sense of déjà vu about the market for the BOYLE sports Irish Greyhound Derby with the reigning champion Bockos Diamond remaining a red-hot favourite to create history.

Only one greyhound has successfully defended his Derby crown – the great Spanish Battleship, who did so twice when winning in 1953, 1954 and 1955.

It is 70 years since Spanish Battleship claimed the last of his three Derby titles, but Bockos Diamond is just 9-2 with BOYLE Sports to emulate Tom Lynch trained, Chubb O’Conner owner superstar.

Behind him are a whole host of familiar names including last year’s Derby runner-up and his kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches on 14-1. He is clear second favourite ahead of another kennel companion Bombay Pat on 16-1. Joining Bombay Pat on that mark are Droopys Patriot, Magical Major, Lennies Desire and last year’s Derby third Callaway Knegare.    

2024 English Derby champion De Lahdedah is on his own at 20-1 ahead of Ballymac Stud, Carrick Scholsey, Proper Heiress, Ballinabola Joe, Faypoint Ranger and Rural Pest on 25-1.

BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby

BOYLE Sports bet:

9-2     Bockos Diamond

14    Cheap Sandwiches

16    Droopys Patriot

16    Bombay Pat

16    Lennies Desire

16    Magical Major

16     Callaway Knegare

20      De Lahdedah

25      Ballymac Stud

25       Carrick Scholsey

25      Proper Heiress

25     Ballinabola Joe

25      Faypoint Ranger

25      Rural Pest

33      Sole Mio

33     Bubbly Charger

33     Ballymac Tibet

33     Hackney Corner

33      Toolmaker King

33     Seven Beach

40    Coosane Pickles

40    Rolo Tokyo

40    Hello Diego

40    The Other Wild

40     Shanahee Boomer

40      Glengar Silent

40     Epic Ace

50     Magical Mag

50     Magical On Fire

50    Daleroad Duke

50    Ballyhimikin Rio

50     Bushpark Rodney

50      Ballymac Lake

50      Ballymac Danica

50     Unanimous Leo

50     Born Braver

50     Cheque For Cash

50     Fahee Phantom

50       Flashing Lilac

50     Droopys Slick

50     Droopys Deploy

50     Untold Rufiyaa

50    Lemon Joey

50     Hopes Teddy

50    BoyleSports Bob

50     Sallagh Curly

50     Lennies Dream

66    Snazzy Boss

66    Maireads Diamond

66    Magical Keith

66     Coloursaregreen

66     Betgoodwin Ben

66      Casements Fort

66     Drogon

66     Lemon Orla

66     Phoenix Memphis

66     Ballinabola Jim

66      Hackney Tango

66    Ballymac Kamala

66    Shebetheone

66    Headleys Trump

66    Callaway Five

66    Ballyhooly Bruno

66    Drombeg Banner

66     Oreo Ollie

66     Ballymac Axel

100-1 bar

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BOYLE SPORTS IRISH GREYHOUND DERBY – OPENING ROUND DRAW

A total of 144 names went into the draw drum for the opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne Park on Monday afternoon. There will be 24 opening round heats with a straight four to qualify from each leaving 96 for the second round.

The breakdown of the 144 is 98 inside seeds, 15 middle seeds and 31 wide seeds. Defending champion Bockos Diamond has been drawn in Heat 5 where he will wear the stripes. The final of the classic is scheduled for Saturday, September 27th.

Making the Draw for the 2025 BOYLESports Derby (L To R )  are Dylan Brennan Racing manager Shelbourne Park, Brian O'Keeffe Senior Media Relations Manager BOYLESports (Sponsors) and Conor Matthews Racing Manager Shelbourne Park.  Pic: Imelda Grauer 

Opening round draw (4 to qualify)

Friday, August 22nd.

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Saturday, August 23rd.

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Obviously, most of us are au fait with the structure of the Derby after all these years but it is always worth noting the dates involved.

Below is the full schedule of this year’s blue riband leading up to the greatest occasion in world greyhound racing, final night on Saturday, September 27th.

Opening round –              Friday, August 22nd and Saturday, August 23rd

2nd Round –                     Friday, August 29th and Saturday, August 30th

3rd Round –                     Saturday, September 6th  

Quarter Finals –               Saturday, September 13th

Semi-Finals –                   Saturday, September 20th

Final –                              Saturday, September 27th

© Greyhound Racing Ireland