BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby News

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SPECIAL BOCKOS DIAMOND CLAIMS A FAMOUS DERBY SUCCESS

For those involved in greyhound racing, there are few occasions in the long history of the sport that will forever live in the memory.

That will be the case for those present at the famous Ringsend venue on Saturday night for the conclusion of the 2024 Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby as Bockos Diamond secured his place in history as one of the greatest greyhounds ever to grace the track.

In a year when the iconic stadium had a major facelift, bringing it into the 21^st century, it is fitting that the blue riband event was won by an equally iconic greyhound. Bockos Diamond was sent to traps the hottest favourite in the long history of the classic and the pressure certainly didn’t get to him.

Showing his trademark early speed, he would make every inch to hand Graham Holland another Derby success, seeing him join two of the greats, Tom Lynch and Gay McKenna, on four wins.

A HUGE CROWD

There was a huge crowd and, for much of the evening, Storm Bert was a thing of the past.

It was only in the minutes leading up to the Derby final that the rain began to fall but it made little difference in the race itself.

Bockos Diamond was sent to traps the 3-10 favourite, followed by Cheap Sandwiches at 7-1 and Callaway Knegare on 9-1. Behind the big three were A Lucky Julie at 20-1, Boylesports Bob at 22-1 and Singalong Dolly at 25-1.

As you would expect, the crowd were getting excited and cheers of approval accompanied the loading process and then came the Derby roar. Would it affect the favourite. The answer was no.

Breaking smartly from six, but taking a step to his right, he soon corrected himself. Cheap Sandwiches also came away racing but Callaway Knegare was perhaps the fastest into stride. After a few strides, the race moved down a predictable path.

Showing exceptional early speed, Bockos Diamond accelerated his way to the front. Cheap Sandwiches was right on his heels into the bend but Bockos Diamond was on his way to an historic victory.    

Cutting the bend, just over a length in front, Bockos Diamond set about putting the result beyond doubt. Showing electric pace and running an incredible second corner, he would increase his advantage to three lengths as they entered the back straight.

And still he piled on the pressure. Cheap Sandwiches had just enough of an advantage to cut off Callaway Knegare at the second turn but neither were close enough to worry the favourite. By halfway, Bockos Diamond had three and a half lengths to spare and still displayed no signs of relenting.

Cheap Sandwiches wasn’t done with yet, however. Four lengths down at the third turn, he began to stay on strongly in second. Callaway Knegare also began to close but destiny was on the side of Bockos Diamond.

THE GREATEST EVER?

Despite the wet and windy conditions, the huge crowd roared with approval as he galloped on to cross the line a length clear of Cheap Sandwiches in 29.25.

Callaway Knegare was the same distance away third, while Singalong Dolly and Boylesports Bob weren’t too far behind them.

In fact, less than three lengths separated the first five home, but it mattered little with Bockos Diamond always in control as he earned his place in history as perhaps the greatest ever Derby champion.

At just over two years of age, the September ’22 whelp now boasts a career record of sixteen wins from seventeen career starts. He holds the most coveted track record in Irish greyhound racing and has the sort of early speed that anyone involved in greyhound racing can only dream of.

He is most certainly a very special greyhound and his success sparked special celebrations. A large crowd descended on the presentation area and front and centre were his lucky owners, Graham Box, Bev Lochead, Austin Whelan and Thomas McNamara, who make up the Remember Them Syndicate.

For the first three named it was a second Derby victory as they also part-owned 2019 winner Lenson Bocko. How lucky can you be?

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JOSH TOO STRONG IN PLATE DECIDER

The Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate provided the Roban family with a poignant success as Elite Josh gunned down the favourite Knockeen Dazzler in the closing yards.

Myles Roban, who owns the powerful son of Elite Black and Ellies Runaway, lost his father in the summer and the victory would have meant the world to the Wexford handler.

Knockeen Dazzler displayed the best early speed to just clear the turn, avoiding a scrimmage that saw Carmac King hit the deck. Ventry Faith would turn second but the eye was immediately drawn to Elite Josh in third.

A big finisher, he always seemed destined to get involved at the finish. Charging into second at the third turn, he would gun down the favourite, Knockeen Dazzler, on the run in to emerge a length and a half scorer in 29.61.

CONSOLATION FOR ENGLISH DERBY CHAMP

De Lahdedah may have been unlucky to be eliminated at the quarter final stages of the Derby but there was some consolation for the brilliant English Derby winner in the Consolation final as he threw himself up on the line to deny Short Grip and Carrick Aldo.

Short Grip went up fast from trap three to dictate the pace into the turn but Carrick Saldo shook off early challengers to slip around second before making his move down the back straight. Behind the front two, De Lahdedah forced his way into third spot and this was to prove decisive.

Carrick Aldo went to the front down the back straight but Short Grip was back for more around the third and fourth bends. The Liam Dowling trained De Lahdedah continued to draw closer, however. In a terrific finish, Carrick Aldo did all he could to contain his rivals but Short Grip and De Lahdedah, owned by the Young Garsuns Syndicate, were too strong.

The three flashed past the post together but De Lahdedah (Lenson Bocko/ Ballymac Sarahjo) had done enough to get up to score by short head from Short Grip in 29.46 with Carrick Aldo another neck back in third.

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ALL SET FOR A SPECIAL NIGHT AT A SPECIAL VENUE

After weeks of most jaw-dropping action, numerous shocks, track record breaking displays and some wonderful storylines, the 2024 Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby will tonight come to a fitting conclusion at the new Shelbourne Park.

The famous venue has been one of the stars of this year’s Derby with the new facilities and facelift wonderfully received by each and every patron that came through the stiles, while it should also provide the perfect back drop for tonight’s celebrations as the sport comes together on the greatest night of the year in world greyhound racing.

A massive crowd is set to pour through the stiles for a special night, providing an atmosphere and hopefully the weather gods will play their part. The forecast suggests that Storm Bert will be a thing of the past by the time racing gets underway and remarkably mild temperatures will welcome the best greyhounds on the planet.

Once again, the Virgin Media cameras will be on track, providing pictures to those that can’t make it, but there really is nothing like being there. And the final itself should provide a fitting conclusion to what has been one of the greatest renewals of the Derby in its long history.

A LOPSIDED MARKET WITH DIAMOND A RED-HOT FAVOURITE

In contrast to some of the more recent finals, this is a race where everyone is largely in agreement. Bockos Diamond is a worthy long-odds on favourite and should he repeat that level of performance he has shown through his imperious march through the competition, he will likely emerge on top.

If doing so, he would likely be the shortest priced winner of all time, potentially overtaking Spanish Battleship, who won the 1954 Derby at odds of 4-11. But nothing can be taken for granted. History has proven that strange things can happen in a Derby final and Bockos Diamond faces five brilliant rivals, all of which are capable of landing the €125,000 prize if the opportunity arises.

Bockos Diamond is more than deserving of his billing, however. Ater the most incredible sequence of performances stretching back to May, he enters tonight’s decider bidding for a fifteenth victory in a row.

Few believed he could ever repeat his third round, track record breaking display, but he seemed to better it in last week’s semi-finals, going to the third turn faster than any greyhound in history before equalling his own track record in conditions that weren’t conducive to doing so.

A kind draw in the stripes should again allow Bockos Diamond get the room he requires in the opening yards and, if he does trap on terms, his stunning early speed could again carry him to the front. It goes without saying but, should he reproduce last week’s 28.94 return, he will no doubt emerge as one of the truly great Derby champions.

SANDWICHES A SERIOUS PLAYER

This is not a one-dog affair, however.

He faces five brilliant trackers including his kennel companion and clear second choice in the market, Cheap Sandwiches. Owned by the wonderfully named, Dan Brassil led, Bark Wahlberg Syndicate, the son of Burgess Bucks was also an emphatic semi-final winner, flashing from boxes to dominate in 29.13. 

He will again race from three and is likely to edge right in the early yards but is perhaps the only real threat to the favourite into the opening bend. His progress through the Derby has been marked. You can see the point where his fortunes began to change and it coincides with a step back up to 550yds.

Blessed with tremendous early speed, big pace down the back straight and a progressive profile, he is a worthy adversary for his kennel mate. In any normal year, he may have been a worthy Derby favourite but whether he can lower the colours of Bockos Diamond has yet to be seen.

CALLAWAY HAS THE DRAW

One time Derby favourite Callaway Knegare has failed to produce his Juvenile Derby winning form in recent weeks, but the signs are good for the Owen McKenna trained powerhouse.

He has been nursing a small niggle but with each outing he seems to be getting better and better.

He flew home to take second behind Bockos Diamond last week and has been rewarded with a kind draw on the fence. Given the fact that the favourite is an unbackable price, the double figure odds available about Callaway Knegare are likely to prove popular for punters wishing to have a small interest in the decider and, one suspects, he could be a real mover in the market.

Coincidentally, he is currently a 10-1 chance with sponsors Boylesports, the same price Like A Shot was when handing Owen McKenna his first Derby success some twenty years ago in 2004. The coincidences don’t end there. McKenna’s second and latest Derby victory came in 2021 with the sensational Susie Sapphire, who made all from the same inside box from which Callaway Knegare races. Its highly unlikely Callaway Knegare will win in such a manner but he is seen as a serious player.

BOB HAS THE ENGINE

Paul Hennessy has won everything worth winning in the sport.

He has won most of the classics on multiple occasions but a second Irish Derby victory has eluded him since steering Tyrur Rhino to glory back in 2007.

Much like his 2007 champion, Boylesports Bob will wear the orange jacket and plenty will believe he can go one place better than his runner-up finish in the English Derby earlier in the summer. The son of Derby champion Good News has an incredible engine and certainly has the ability to win from off the pace but the last time a greyhound came from further back than second to win a Derby was Skywalker Puma in 2012.

It doesn’t mean it’s not possible but Boylesports Bob will need to be at his very sharpest in the opening yards to allow him turn close enough to threaten at the business end. Were he to come home in front for competition sponsor John Boyle and joint owner Ned Murphy, he would certainly be a popular winner but double figure odds seem to accurately reflect his chances.

JULIE MAKES HER OWN LUCK FOR JERRY

Two flying, classic winning, females complete a sensational line-up.

A Lucky Julie races for Hall of Fame handler, Jerry Melia. He is the only trainer in the contest without a Derby success to speak of but has twice gone close, finishing second with Glencorbry Celt in 1984 and Holycross Leah in 2016.

A Lucky Julie dead-heated in the Oaks final, showing awesome pace from off the pace to join Fleadh Saraide on the line. She will again finish with a real flourish but must somehow avoid a bump at trap rise with Cheap Sandwiches set to move into her path.

She returned from seasonal rest in the opening round and has been in superb form throughout the Derby. She has a habit of finding a way to get involved but this is undoubtedly her toughest test.

DOLLY AIMING FOR MORE CLASSIC GLORY

Cesarewitch winner Singalong Dolly completes the line up.

Trained by Pat Buckley, who famously won the Derby in 2009 with College Causeway, the key to her chances rest on whether she can clear Callaway Knegare in the opening exchanges.

Her owner Gilbert Anerson went close in the past with Singalong Sally finishing second to Susie Sapphire in 2021 and he will be hoping his latest Derby finalist can rocket from traps. She does possess the ability to make a flying start, however.

Certainly, if she were to turn close to the pace, she is very strong and could play a far bigger part than her odds suggest.

AN INCREDIBLE FINAL

It’s an incredible Derby final.

The presence of Bockos Diamond casts a shadow over the other five participants but any would be a worthy winner. All logic does point to Bockos Diamond, however.

He suffered his ONLY career defeat back in May in the second round of the Champion Unraced at Kilkenny but has gone from strength to strength in the subsequent months.

Fourteen straight victories, many of them in electric times, are evidence of the fact. He boasts the sort of early speed rarely matched in the long history of the sport and, after two track record displays through the prelims, he is deserving of his restrictive odds.

A BID FOR HISTORY

Graham Holland, who has guided Bockos Diamond through the majority of his career, is also bidding to create history.

Should Bockos Diamond or Cheap Sandwiches come home in front, Holland would join two of the greatest names in the history of the sport, Tom Lynch and Gay McKenna, on four Derby victories.

He knows what it takes to win a Derby as proven by his previous winners Rural Hawaii, Lenson Bocko and Newinn Taylor and most attending the wonderful Shelbourne Park this evening will be expecting the winner to hail from Graham’s all-conquering Riverside Kennels operation. 

Bockos Diamond is a special greyhound and we should savour every moment with him. If he does continue his current run of form, he is fully expected to emerge as one of the, if not the, greatest Derby winner of all-time. Cheap Sandwiches is respected as are each of the remaining participants but Callaway Knegare is chosen to finish closest to the favourite at the line.

A DREAM COME TRUE

Best of luck to each of the six finalists and their connections.

It’s a dream to have one good enough to take part in a Derby but to reach a final is pretty sublime. Enjoy every moment and may they all come home safe and sound.

The runners go to traps at 9.24pm with the action set to be shown live on Irish terrestrial TV on Virgin Media 3, while sisracing.tv will also stream the action. 

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KNOCKEEN HOPING TO DAZZLE IN PLATE DECIDER

An exceptional Shelbourne Park undercard features the final of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate and Knockeen Dazzler is set to start a warm favourite after returning to his very best form in the semis.

His terrific early speed can carry him to the front but he may not have things all his own way. Carmac King is perhaps the key to the race. If he clears those on his inner from trap four in the opening yards, he could quickly emerge as a serious threat.

Elite Josh is also in fine form and could represent real value at the 20-1 available in places. He will be absolutely flying from halfway and is definitely worthy of a second look. Faypoint Harvey will also have his supporters, He really dug deep to lead on the line in the semi-finals and has shown in the past that he can also go up fast. A trap five draw is perhaps not ideal but don’t dismiss his claims. Miami King is also worthy of consideration.

He was somewhat surprisingly picked up in the semis, but a similar start could see him play a big part. He may need to get of the front, however, which is no easy task with Knockeen Dazzler in attendance.

Ventry Faith completes a talented field. He won his second round assignment in a good 29.45 but needs to be electric at boxes this evening.

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FASCINATING CONSOLATION

There’s a fascinating Consolation Derby to look forward to. Bombay Pat and Carrick Aldo are the only beaten semi-finalists in the line up and both will have huge support, as will English Derby winner De Lahdedah.

The extra week’s rest could favour De Lahdedah but he will still need to be on his toes with Bombay Pat and Carrick Aldo in tremendous form of late. Short Grup is also likely to go up fast from three, while Extra Gain will be finishing fast. Mustang Fever completes a talented field but needs to be at her very sharpest from trap four with early speed on both her flanks.

Bombay Pat just gets the nod over Carrick Aldo and De Lahdedah but one suspects this could turn into one of the races of the night.

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DERBY FINAL SPECIALS AVAILABLE WITH BOYLESPORTS

As you would expect, Boylesports have introduced a number of special markets for the Derby final, including a without the favourite market.

It’s perhaps no surprise that Cheap Sandwiches is seen as favourite at 6-4 with Callaway Knegare next in at 9-4. (full market below) 

The likelihood is the ‘without the favourite’ market could prove popular with plenty wanting to have an interest in the decider but are put off by the very short price on Bockos Diamond.

A couple of the markets are a bit lopsided given the presence of Bockos Diamond. The odds v evens and inside v outside for example. Other markets that might attract some attention are the match bets. Callaway Knegare is 8-11 to beat Boylesports Bob, who is evens, in a match, while Singalong Dolly is also 8-11 to beat even money short A Lucky Julie in a match. The various markets can be found below:  

Betting Without Bockos Diamond

6-4      Cheap Sandwiches

7          A Lucky Julie

9-4      Callaway Knegare

7-2      Boylesports Bob

5          Singalong Dolly

Odds v Evens

5-2      Odds

1-4      Evens

Inside v Outside

5-2      Inside (1,2,3)

1-4      Outside (4,5,6)

BoyleSports Bob v Callaway Knegare Match Bet

EV       Boylesports Bob

8-11   Callaway Knegare 

Winning Distance

11-10 Under 3 Lengths

5-2      Between 3 - 4 Lengths (Inclusive)

5-4      Over 4 Lengths

A Lucky Julie v Singalong Dolly Match Bet

EVS     A Lucky Julie

8-11   Singalong Dolly

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DAZZLER THE PLATE FAVOURITE

Boylesports have introduced Knockeen Dazzler their warm favourite for the Michael Fortune Memorial Plate, which will conclude on Saturday.

An impressive winner of his semi-final last weekend in a rapid 29.29, he has been installed the 11-8 market leader.

Carmac King is seen as the main threat at 9-4, while Faypoint Harvey is next in at 4-1 just ahead of Miami King on 9-2. Elite Josh looks a value option at 14-1 while Ventry Faith is the rank outsider at 16-1.  

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

Boylesports bet:

11-8   KNOCKEEN DAZZLER

9-4      CARMAC KING

4          FAYPOINT HARVEY

9-2      MIAMI KING

14       ELITE JOSH

16       VENTRY FAITH

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DIAMOND THE HOTTEST DERBY FAVOURITE OF ALL TIME

Just minutes after the trap draw for the final of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, the sponsors released their prices, revealing that Bockos Diamond would likely start the shortest priced Derby favourite of all time.

Initially installed the 1-3 favourite, he has since been cut to 3-10 which would be the shortest starting price in any Derby since it was first officially run in 1932. And what was the hottest favourite in the Derby decider until now?

The legendary Spanish Battleship won the Derby three years running in 1953, 1954 and 1955. His wins in ’53 and ’55 came at Harold’s Cross but he was a 4-11 favourite when winning the 1954 renewal at Shelbourne Park.

Prince Of Bermuda was the 4-9 favourite when finishing second in 1956 but none have been as short in the subsequent years. It doesn’t add any pressure to Bockos Diamond but it is a guide to just how good he has been in recent months. The sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat could be even shorter on the night as he seeks a fifteenth win in a row on the biggest stage of all.

Cheap Sandwiches has been installed the clear second favourite after his impressive semi-final performance. He is available at 11-2 with Boylesports, while the remainder of the top class field are available at double figure odds.

Callaway Knegare is now 10-1 from 12-1, while Boylesports Bob is fourth in at 14-1. To highlight the quality of the contest, the two outsiders of the field, Singalong Dolly and A Lucky Julie are both classic winners.

Cesarewitch winner Singalong Dolly has been installed a 20-1 chance, while Oaks champ A Lucky Julie is the rank outsider at 25-1.

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Boylesports bet:

3-10   BOCKOS DIAMOND

11-2   CHEAP SANDWICHES

10       CALLAWAY KNEGARE

14       BOYLESPORTS BOB

20       SINGALONG DOLLY

25       A LUCKY JULIE

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DIAMOND AGAIN THE THIRD TURN KING

Bockos Diamon completed a clean sweep to the third turn in Saturday’s Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby semi-finals. Posting a truly stunning, record breaking 16.58, he made sure that he maintained his record of going fastest to the third turn in each of the five rounds of the Derby.

It’s again worth remembering that prior to this year’s Derby, the record to the third turn came from Newinn Taylor back in 2020 with a 16.79 return. In no fewer than three of the five rounds, Bockos Diamond went faster and his latest run, which is some three lengths faster than the mark of Newinn Taylor, could potentially stand for a few years to come.

To highlight just how good his run to the third turn was, he was some twenty nine spots faster than his kennel companion and impressive second semi-final winner Cheap Sandwiches, who clocked a rapid 16.87.

Prior to this year’s Derby, that would have been good enough for a place in the top-ten all time list and yet in this year’s Derby it is only the joint seventh fastest time.

A full breakdown of the each of the five prelim rounds, including the semi-finals, can be found below:

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):
	1st round	2nd round	3rd round	Q-finals	S-finals
Bockos Diamond	16.85	16.68	16.63	16.80	16.58
Cheap Sandwiches		16.95	16.92	17.03	16.87
Bombay Pat	16.93	17.03	17.03	16.85
Carrick Aldo	16.92			16.87
Undulation			17.11
Untold Dollar			17.24
Ballinabola Jim	17.22	16.96	17.25
Ballymac Briar			17.27
Extra Gain			17.59
Grangeclare Lady	17.19	16.93
Seven Beach	17.09	16.96
Bubbly Shadow		16.98
De Lahdedah		17.03
Cheque For Cash		17.08
Whyaye Bonnylad		17.11
Droopys Metaphor		17.19
Scooby Pacemaker		17.19
Kapuka Warrior	17.12	17.22
Robbies Galaxy		17.35
Glitzy Magic		17.72
Denos Bay		n/a
Tribal Syd	17.00
Tarsna Maasai	17.03
Short Grip	17.04
March On Freddie	17.08
Clona Duke	17.12
Singalong Dolly	17.16
Knockeen Dazzler	17.17
Glengar Martha	17.19
Dynamic Force	17.20
Breaghmore Dice	17.27
Down To Business	17.27
Ballymac Danica	17.30
Deelish Nora	17.32
Jaytee Craze	17.35
Tinahue Pappone	17.38
Quarry Boy	17.40
In Good Time	17.44
Born To Perform	17.54
Ballyhimikin Leo	17.64

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DIAMOND CREATES MORE HISTORY IN THE BOYLESPORTS DERBY

It was yet another famous night for Graham Holland’s Riverside Kennels at a packed Shelbourne Park on Saturday night as both semi-final winners in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby hailed from the all-conquering Golden based operation.

Cheap Sandwiches was brilliant in the second heat, claiming his place in the decider in some style, but the headlines again belonged to Bockos Diamond as he produced the most incredible performance to equal his own track record.

DIAMOND IS CANINE PERFECTION

There are few words that can do justice to the brilliance of Bockos Diamond.

He really is from another planet and Saturday’s display was further evidence of his immense talent. In what was one of the hottest contests this century, the son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow was nothing short of awesome.

Sent to traps the 8-13 favourite, Bockos Diamond was absolutely flawless. Rocketing from traps, this contest was over from the opening strides. Showing his famed early speed, Bockos Diamond was some three lengths clear of his nearest rivals Carrick Aldo and Seven Beach by the turn.

Running the most fluent bend, the Remember Them Syndicate owned star would enter the back straight with almost four lengths to spare over Carrick Aldo with Seven Beach just a length further back, while Bombay Pat had recovered from a tardy start to sit fourth.

Those in the stands knew what they were witnessing. Bockos Diamond is canine perfection. The fluency of his movement is a joy to watch and he charged into an unassailable lead by the third turn, clocking a scarcely believable sectional of 16.58.

It was clear he was creating even more history. Just a fortnight after becoming the fastest greyhound to cover 550yds on Irish soil, he would match his own record. Bockos Diamond would hit the line five and a half lengths to the good in 28.94.

It was the most incredible performance yet not one person in the packed stands seemed surprised. Such is his brilliance and ability to produce it week after week that we are starting to become almost impervious to it.

The battle for the remaining qualifying places was very different. This went right down to the wire. Carrick Aldo and Bombay Pat turned into the home straight in second and third but it wasn’t meant to be.

Callaway Knegare and A Lucky Julie both finished at speed to press. Carrick Aldo was all out on the run in. So too was Bombay Pat, who had recovered from a scare off the second turn as he clipped the heels of Seven Beach only to quickly recover. Both gave their all but Callaway Knegare and A Lucky Julie were moving with purpose.  

With room to race up the inside of the track as they turned for home, Callaway Knegare made his move. Finishing fast, he would get up for second in the final ten strides. ON the outside of the track, A Lucky Julie was also finishing fast and she would finish just a head away in third. Bombay Pat felt the agony of finishing fourth, just a head further back while it was another head to Carrick Aldo in fifth.

SANDWICHES SIZZLES TO BOOK FINAL PLACE

Cheap Sandwiches was every bit as decisive in the second semi-final, winning in superb style for his owners the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate.

A drifter in the market ahead of the race, he would be sent to traps the 3-1 favourite but it was soon evident he was overly priced.

The son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie was razor-sharp from trap three. Flashing from traps, he would seize control from the very start. Despite moving off to trap six, Cheap Sandwiches would hit the corner three lengths to the good.

Ballinabola Jim would fly up the outside of the track to take second from the fast-starting Singalong Dolly but there would be heartbreak for those involved in ‘Big’ Jim as he would lose his action approaching halfway, eventually finishing at the tail of the field.

Singalong Dolly was now second but Cheap Sandwiches had over six lengths in hand to the third turn and was on his way to a brilliant victory. Cheap Sandwiches would coast home four lengths clear of Singalong Dolly in a sizzling 29.13.

Boylesports Bob moved into third ahead of the penultimate bend but would make his own life difficult when swinging wide off the final turn. This gave the advancing Da Bold Falcon the opportunity to draw closer. In a desperate battle for third, Boylesports Bob would cling on by a short head, a length and a half behind Singalong Dolly.

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Trap draw

1 CALLAWAY KNEGARE

2 SINGALONG DOLLY

3 CHEAP SANDWICHES (W)

4 A LUCKY JULIE (W)

5 BOYLESPORTS BOB (W)

6 BOCKOS DIAMOND (W)

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Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

DAZZLER SETS THE PLATE STANDARD

Knockeen Dazzler and Faypoint Harvey won their semi-finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate, albeit in contrasting styles.

 Knockeen Dazzler was at his very best in the opening heat with the Kirby Memorial Champion showing his incredible early speed to leave his rivals stranded.

Carmac King was the warm favourite but he couldn’t clear those on his inner, getting held up at the bend. In contrast, Knockeen Dazzler flew up the outside of the track to turn with three lengths in hand. As those behind encountered traffic, Knockeen Dazzler set sail for home. By Halfway it was pretty clear that Daniel O’Rahilly’s star was not going to be stopped.

Maintaining a strong gallop throughout, the Pat Guilfoyle trained son of Laughil Blake and Love Island coasted home a comfortable and most impressive five and a half length winner over Ventry Faith in a rapid 29.29. Carmac King recovered from his opening bend traffic to finish just a half length further back in third.

HARVEY WINS A THRILLER

Faypoint Harvey ended a famous night for Graham Holland on a high, somehow getting up in the final yards to claim the second semi-final of the Derby Plate at the expense of Miami King and Elite Josh.

This was a tremendous contest, although Miami King looked a certain winner when turning on front.

He had been backed into favouritism and managed to contain Tribal Syd into the turn to lead into the back straight. Faypoint Harvey was between the pair into the turn and moved second to chase Miami King down the back straight.

Miami King was still two lengths clear into the back straight and maintained his advantage to the third turn but Faypoint Harvey was pushing hard, while Elite Josh was also improving behind the front two. This set up a wonderful finish. Miami King swung wide off the final turn, forcing Faypoint Harvey to make his move on the wide outside.

Faypoint Harvey continued to press, however. Charging up the straight, Patricia Flanagan’s son of Droopys Sydney and Roaming Shari would join Miami King in the final yards. Elite Josh was also motoring at this point and he too joined the battle. The judge was called into action, finding that Faypoint Harvey got up to win by a short head from Miami King in 29.58, while Elite Josh was just another short head back in third.

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

Final draw

1 ELITE JOSH

2 MIAMI KING

3 VENTRY FAITH

4 CARMAC KING (M)

5 FAYPOINT HARVEY (M)

6 KNOCKEEN DAZZLER (W)

RUNNERS APPROACH FINAL HURDLE IN BOYLESPORTS DERBY

By its very nature greyhound racing is about winning but, for the twelve sets of connections still involved in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, it’s all about qualification with the eyes of the greyhound world on Shelbourne Park this evening.

Tonight’s exceptional card at the famous venue includes the semi-finals of the Derby, which can be viewed live on Virgin Media, and both heats are amongst the best races run at Shelbourne Park this century, such is the quality on show.

Throw in the semi-finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Plate and the final of the Gourmet Island Puppy Oakas, featuring the incredible Droopys Kathleen, and it’s the best night of racing imaginable.

DIAMOND TO SPARKLE ONCE AGAIN

The Derby is the main course, however, and hot favourite for outright glory is Bockos Diamond.

The stunningly fast son of Dorotas Wildcat takes his place in the opening heat and will be a short price to continue his march through the classic and claim a fourteenth straight win.

This is without doubt his toughest test. The market suggests his kennel companion Bombay Pat and Carrick Aldo are the main dangers but Callaway Knegare, Seven Beach and A Lucky Julie complete an incredible line-up.

Th mere fact that Oaks champion A Lucky Julie is the rank outsider at 25-1 goes to highlight just how strong this field is. But there is no doubt Bockos Diamond is the deserving favourite. Amongst the fastest early paced greyhounds to ever grace the tracks of Ireland, he is again likely to set a searing gallop.

He may be a wide seed drawn in three but doesn’t have the racing line of a true wide runner. In fact, he tends to run the opening turns close to the fence, while steering a middle path for much of the remainder.

The presence of Seven Beach on his immediate inside is a slight concern but he too has run from the inside in the past and is perhaps more likely to go up straighter than any of the remaining wide seeds would have been.

Bombay Pat is wedged between Bockos Diamond and Carrick Aldo. He has incredible pace but his trapping is a worry. If he doesn’t find a start, he could potentially give those on his flanks an advantage and that’s not something he can afford to do.

Callaway Knegare and A Lucky Julie will attempt to pick their way through the pack with both potent finishers but neither can afford to sit too far back. That leaves Carrick Aldo. The former Irish Sprint Cup winner has been in tremendous form, setting the standard last week.

He is likely to go up fast from trap five and could offer the most resistance to Bockos Diamond in the early exchanges.

Despite the quality of opposition, Bockos Diamond is impossible to oppose. Expect another masterclass from the sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat, who is chosen to dominate to see off Carrick Aldo and the fast-finishing Callaway Knegare.

DOLLY DRAWN TO CAUSE THE UPSET

The second heat is also stacked with incredible quality.

Cheap Sandwiches is a worthy favourite after a superb series of runs through the classic but a trap three draw could be an issue. In a career spanning twenty starts, he has never been drawn that close to the fence and was noted moving wide from trap four in the past.

For supporters of March On Freddie, the sole UK raider, the draw is a concern. Drawn on the right shoulder of Cheap Sandwiches, he could find himself short of room in the early yards and will have to find a flying start to clear the favourite or somehow avoid an early bump.

Boylesports Bob is as fast as any greyhound in training. He lines out in five and is clearly capable of mounting a bold bid but this is not a contest where he can afford to make any mistakes in the early yards. He has to find a way to turn close to the pace. In such a scenario he would be a huge player.

Ballinabola Jim wears the stripes and will attract plenty of support. He was brilliant in the early rounds of the classic and is capable of going up fast on the outside of the track. Were he to turn in front it would need something special from one of his rivals to deny him.

But the make-up of this contest could really suit the talented inside duo of Singalong Dolly and Da Bold Falcon. Both are immensely strong and will be motoring from the second turn, making the odds available about each look generous.

Da Bold Falcon, who holds the 600yd track record, will certainly finish fast and could prove tempting for punters at around the 6-1 mark but it’s the 10-1 on offer about Singalong Dolly that really stands out.  

The Cesarewitch winner ran with real purpose in her last two starts, flying from halfway on both occasions. She is drawn on the inside of Da Bold Falcon and may have the early speed to get the better of that rival into the bend. With crowding amongst the outside quartet very possible, she could turn closer to the pace. That could allow her emerge a serious player and she is chosen at big odds to cause an upset, perhaps picking up Cheap Sandwiches in the closing yards.

KING TO RULE IN PLATE

Carmac King was simply brilliant in the second round of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate and he looks set to justify favouritism in tonight’s opening semi-final.

A vacant box on his immediate inside, following the withdrawal of Rushy Meadows, should afford the Owen McKenna trained powerhouse extra room in the early yards and he can chase Knockeen Dazzler into the back straight.

If that were to be the case, he would probably be too strong for his rival and, after his latest 29.05 return, simply has to be selected to follow up. His kennel companion Ventry Faith is well-housed on the fence and is respected but he must reproduce his latest slick exit. Ballyhooly Bruno is running with purpose but needs to find a way to turn close, while Scooby The Boss has loads of foot but he too must sharpen up in the early yards.

MIAMI TO COME OUT ON TOP

The second semi-final could provide plenty of action, both on the track and in the ring.

Tribal Syd has been favourite all week but it would be no surprise to see Miami King join and head him at the top of the market.

The latter also looks a big player in the contest itself. A winner of his last two starts in an identical 29.50, he is set to turn close to the pace. Tribal Syd is the most likely pace-setter but will be vulnerable from the third turn to the line.

Faypoint Harvey flew in the opening round but failed to match that form last week. He would need to hit the ground running from five to come home in front, while Hawkfield Abbie and Benalmadena Puma need to be at their very sharpest in the early yards.

At a big price Elite Josh could run a big race. He ran on strongly behind Miami King last week and could get involved. Tribal Syd can set the pace but Miami King and Elite Josh are chosen to come at him at the business end. Miami King just gets the nod.  

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RUSHY MEADOWS OUT OF DERBY PLATE

A small tendon injury has resulted in the withdrawal of Rushy Meadows from the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate.

The Brendan Matthews trained star was really starting to find her feet in the competition but will now be on the easy list for a couple of months. It means that trap four will be vacant in Saturday’s opening semi-final.

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DERBY BONUS SCHEME HIGHLIGHTS SUCCESS OF SYNDICATES

As many as five greyhounds are still in the running to claim the €1,500 bonus on offer to the winner of the last surviving Syndicate owned greyhound in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby.

It certainly highlights the success of syndicates and while those involved in Ballinabola Jim, Cheap Sandwiches, Callaway Knegare, Bockos Diamond and Seven Beach are aiming to win the biggest prize of all, the bonus for top Syndicate dog would be a nice cherry on top.

REMAINING BONUSES

The battle for the Last Remaining Bitch €2,000 bonus is down to two with A Lucky Julie and Singalong Dolly the only ladies left in the classic, while the two remaining bonuses have already been claimed. Short Grip won the €1,500 prize on offer for last remaining owner/trained greyhound, while Kapuka Warrior claimed the €1,500 bonus as the last remaining Derby Trial Stake winner on countback.

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BOCKOS REMAINS THE HOT FAVOURITE FOR DERBY

The Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby market remains largely the same after Saturday’s quarter finals with Bockos Diamond still favourite with the sponsors at 5-4.

He overcame a slightly tardy start by his standards to run out a ready winner once again.

His nearest rivals in the market are his kennel companions Cheap Sandwiches and Bombay Pat, both of whom are on the 8-1 mark. Boylesports Bob is a 10-1 chance to win the classic for sponsor John Boyle and Ned Murphy, while Callaway Knegare and Carrick Aldo are both on the 12-1 mark. It begs the question, what does Carrick Aldo have to do to see his price contract significantly? He has been one of the most consistent performers through the competition and set the standard on Saturday night.

Ballinabola Jim may have lost his winning sequence at seven but he is just 14-1 to land the Derby, on the same mark as Da Bold Falcon and UK raider March On Freddie. Seven Beach stands alone on 16-1, while A Lucky Julie is available at 33-1 despite a massive run on Saturday. Singalong Dolly also produced a big run, albeit in defeat, on Saturday and she is the outsider of the field on 40-1.

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Boylesports bet:

5-4      Bockos Diamond
8          Bombay Pat
8          Cheap Sandwiches
10       Boylesports Bob
12       Callaway Knegare
12       Carrick Aldo
14      Ballinabola Jim
14       Da Bold Falcon
14      March On Freddie
16       Seven Beach
33       A Lucky Julie
40       Singalong Dolly

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KING WORTHY PLATE FAVOURITE AFTER BIG RUN

It was wonderful to see Carmac King return to his very best at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night as he posted a world class 29.05 in the quarter finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate.

As a result of a return to his best summer form, the Owen McKenna trained star has been promoted to favouritism for the valuable competition with sponsors Boylesports.

Kirby Memorial champion Knockeen Dazzler is next in at 5-1 with Miami King and Tribal Syd on the 6-1 mark. Faypoint Harvey is next at 7-1 with Scooby The Boss the only other runner at single figure odds at 8-1. The full market can be seen below:

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

Boylesports bet:

5-2      Carmac King

5          Knockeen Dazzler

6          Miami King

6          Tribal Syd

7          Faypoint Harvey

8          Scooby The Boss

14       Ventry Faith

14       Ballyhooly Bruno

20       Hawkfield Abbie

20       Rushy Meadows

33       Elite Josh

50       Benalmadena Puma

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DIAMOND FASTEST TO THIRD TURN FOR A FOURTH TIME

Yet again the 17 second barrier to the third turn took a battering in the quarter finals of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night and it was also no surprise to see Bockos Diamond going fastest to that point for the fourth time running.

Despite a slightly tardier start than normal, the sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat shot to the front into the bend to post a sizzling 16.80 to the third turn on his way to a 29.19 victory. Bombay Pat also won in 29.19 but h went slightly slower to the third turn, stopping the clock in 16.85.

In doing so, he became the only dog in the competition to match ANY of Bockos Diamond’s third bend clocks. The Derby favourite had posted that time in the opening round.

Next fastest to the third bend was fastest quarter final winner Carrick Aldo. He was dominant from the start in Heat 3 and clocked 16.87 to the third turn on his way to a 29.15 return. That measures favourably to his 16.92 return in the opening round. Certainly, it shows that the brilliant brindle is taking his racing very well.

Cheap Sandwiches may have been picked up in the closing stages of Heat 2 when a hot favourite but he still managed to set the pace, hitting the third turn in 17.03. It’s worth noting her recorded 16.92 last week.

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

Leaders Clocks (Fastest to Slowest):
	1st round	2nd round	3rd round	Q-finals
Bockos Diamond	16.85	16.68	16.63	16.80
Bombay Pat	16.93	17.03	17.03	16.85
Carrick Aldo	16.92			16.87
Cheap Sandwiches		16.95	16.92	17.03
Undulation			17.11
Untold Dollar			17.24
Ballinabola Jim	17.22	16.96	17.25
Ballymac Briar			17.27
Extra Gain			17.59
Grangeclare Lady	17.19	16.93
Seven Beach	17.09	16.96
Bubbly Shadow		16.98
De Lahdedah		17.03
Cheque For Cash		17.08
Whyaye Bonnylad		17.11
Droopys Metaphor		17.19
Scooby Pacemaker		17.19
Kapuka Warrior	17.12	17.22
Robbies Galaxy		17.35
Glitzy Magic		17.72
Denos Bay		n/a
Tribal Syd	17.00
Tarsna Maasai	17.03
Short Grip	17.04
March On Freddie	17.08
Clona Duke	17.12
Singalong Dolly	17.16
Knockeen Dazzler	17.17
Glengar Martha	17.19
Dynamic Force	17.20
Breaghmore Dice	17.27
Down To Business	17.27
Ballymac Danica	17.30
Deelish Nora	17.32
Jaytee Craze	17.35
Tinahue Pappone	17.38
Quarry Boy	17.40
In Good Time	17.44
Born To Perform	17.54
Ballyhimikin Leo	17.64

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A SPECIAL NIGHT AT SHELBOURNE

Shelbourne Park is a special place that produces special nights.

That was the case on Saturday as the best greyhounds on the planet provided the most incredible action imaginable.

Of course, the quarter finals of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby were the feature and each of the four heats were worth the admission alone, but throw in some astounding racing in the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate, the semis of the Gourmet Island Puppy Oaks and a scarcely believable track record (see separate story) and it really was one of the great nights at HQ.

Heat by Heat guide to the quarter final action:

Heat 1 – BOMBAY PAT AT HIS BEST

Bombay Pat was a drifter ahead of the opening heat as the cash came in floods for De Lahdedah             but it was clear from early that the 5-2 available about the former was overly generous.

In what was the hottest contest on paper of the Derby thus far, Bombay Pat was imperious.

This was a contest where none of the six ‘took a flier’. Instead, after a level start, Bombay Pat quickened into the lead in the style of a greyhound that meant business. Racing clear of Ballinabola Jim and Cheque For Cash, the son of Pestana and Clear Mountain would turn with three lengths in hand before setting out to put the verdict beyond doubt.

Cheque For Cash moved second on the bend but had no answer to the leader. Bombay Pat drew right away into the third turn to lead by over five lengths. By this point Ballinabola Jim was upsides Cheque For Cash, while De Lahdedah was searching for room along the fence.

Trained by Graham Holland for Pat Muldoon and Bayliss Gee, Bombay Pat cruised home a six length winner in a superb 29.19. Second spot went to Ballinabola Jim, while the battle for third would provide the real drama.

With De Lahdedah attempting to get inside Cheque For Cash at the third turn, the pair clipped heels. Suddenly, their Derby challenge was gone. March On Freddie, who had been forced to check at the turn, losing his spot was back in the mix, going third before staying on to finish four lengths behind the runner-up.

Heat 2 – NOTHING LUCKY ABOUT JULIE’S SUCCESS

A Lucky Julie displayed just why she is the Oaks champion in Heat 2, showing astounding pace, power and determination to reel in long-time leader and hot favourite Cheap Sandwiches.

A 4-9 chance before the off, Cheap Sandwiches went up fast on the outside of the track to head the fast-starting A Lucky Julie.

For those that took the restrictive odds on offer about Cheap Sandwiches, the result seems set. Ballymac Briar went up fast along the fence and took up the chase down the back straight, displaying big pace into the third turn to get to within a length.

Cheap Sandwiches repelled the challenge of Ballymac Briar at this point, breaking his heart in the process. It was now the turn of A Lucky Julie to make her move. After losing her place into the opening turn, Jerry Melia’s daughter of Ballymac Bolger and Julies Paradise displayed fine track craft and pace to go third early in the back straight.

Closing into the third turn, she was just three lengths behind the leader and moving with real purpose. As Ballymac Briar began to capitulate, A Lucky Julie stepped around him between the last two bends. Staying wide off the final turn, she made her move on the outside of Cheap Sandwiches. Meanwhile, Singalong Dolly was also absolutely flying in behind the front two.

In a tremendous finish, A Lucky Julie arrived late and fast to beat Cheap Sandwiches by a half length in 29.31. Singalong Dolly, despite bumping Ballymac Briar as she moved third, would finish a further three parts of a length away.

Heat 3 – AWESOME ALDO SENDS A MESSAGE

Thomas Glynn’s Carrick Aldo may have been behind Bockos Diamond in his last two starts but the son of Droopys Sydney and Minnies Hazel sent out a clear warning that he is a serious Derby contender in Heat 3, showing all his many qualities to emerge a fastest of the round scorer in 29.15.

This was a contest that went largely to script. From an ideal draw in the stripes, ormer Irish Sprint Cup champion Carrick Aldo was backed into 11-10 and he duly obliged for his legion of supporters. Going up fast from his outside draw, he would hold Is She There into the turn to dominate to halfway.

Behind the leader, Is She There was under immediate pressure with Boylesports Bob urning on her heels. As early as the second turn it was obvious that Boylesports Bob was going to be the main threat to the favourite.

Carrick Aldo continued to enjoy his freedom up front, posting a fast 16.87 to the third turn. He was five lengths clear at this point but Boylesports Bob was now a clear second and motoring. While the latter inched closer with each stride, he never looked like getting to the David Murray trained Carrick Aldo.

In the end, Carrick Aldo, who seems to be relishing the challenges of the Derby, stayed on well to hold off his rival by a half-length. Predictably, Da Bold Falcon flew home to take third spot, some four and a half lengths behind Boylesports Bob.

Heat 4 – UNLUCKY THIRTEEEN FOR DIAMOND’S RIVALS

Bockos Diamond was typically brilliant in the last of the four quarter finals as he brough his winning sequence to thirteen in a row, although those that took 1-3 and shorter about the track record holder did have a moment of concern at trap rise.

He seemed to come away reasonably but took an immediate step to his right, losing a little momentum in the process. It meant that after a few strides he was only disputing third. Luckily, the fast-starting Scooby Pacemaker in four began to edge inwards leaving room up the middle of the track for Bockos Diamond to display all his outstanding pace.

Like a supercar taking on a family SUV from the lights, Bockos Diamond hit the accelerator to quickly move to the front. By the turn he had two lengths in hand on Seven Beach and, running a tremendous racing line, he would increase his advantage to four lengths by the time they straightened up.

Hawkfield Blue stayed close to the fence to dispute second into the back with Seven Beach but the duo were chasing shadows. Bockos Diamond continued to pile on the pressure down the back straight. Five lengths to the good at halfway, the Graham Holland trained superstar was in complete control.

The son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow would coast home a comfortable and most impressive four and a half length winner in 29.19. Callaway Knegare would come through to take second. Well off the pace down the back straight, he drew closer into the third turn before slipping through on the fence. Seven Beach would tire, drifting off the final turn but held on to take third from a host of rivals a further length and a half adrift.     

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

The quarter finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate also provided some exceptional racing with the headlines going to Carmac King as he posted a brilliant 29.05.

The remaining heats were also won in good fashion by Hawkfield Abbie and Ventry Faith.

ABBIE SHOWS HER STRENGTH

Hawkfield Abbie took the opening heat, showing fine pace to pick up the long-time leader and hot favourite Tribal Syd.

The latter cut off Dark Dilemma at the corner to race clear of his rivals. The Ginger McGee trained Hawkfield Abbie would ride a bump on the turn to take up the chase in second.

Tribal Syd entered the back straight two and a half lengths to the good but Hawkfield Abbie was now in full pursuit, while Scooby The Boss was also close enough in third to mount a serious challenge. Tribal Say continued to dictate into the home straight but the wheels were starting to come off. As he tired, Hawkfield Abbie and Scooby The Boss closed fast. In a tremendous finish, Jerry Connors’ Hawkfield Abbie got up in the closing yards to win by a head from Scooby The Boss in 29.58 with Tribal Syd another length and a half adrift in third.

MIAMI KING REIGNS

Miami King won the second heat in similar fashion to Hawkfield Abbie, sitting in the slipstream of the pace-setter, Knockeen Dazzler before making his move on the run in to stop the clock in 29.50 for the second week running.

The latter flew up the outside of the track to dictate but Miami King was always too close in second.

Trained by Garry Dempsey for Tony Howard and Dave Lawrence, Miami King edged closer and closer to eventually hit the front on the run in. Elite Josh also attempted to get involved but ran into the back of Miami King. At the line, the son of Ballymac Vic and Newline Mo had a length and a half to spare over Elite Josh with Knockeen Dazzler just a short head back in third.

A REGAL DISPLAY FROM KING

Carmac King was at his very best in Heat 3, showing a clean pair of heels to his rivals throughout. Breaking smartly from trap five, which was the outside box after Coosane Pickles’ Withdrawal, he was afforded room to race in the early yards as those on his inner clashed.

Once going around in front, the hugely fast son of Droopys Sydney and Peters Queen always had matters in hand. Ballyhooly Bruno emerged a close second into the back strauifght but had no answer to the Owen Mckenna trained pace-setter. Timmy Carmody’s star eased on to eventually win by five and a half lengths in a brilliant 29.05. Ballyhooly Bruno was two lengths clear of Benalmadena Puma.   

FAITH COMPLETE’S OWEN’S BRACE

Owen McKenna struck minutes later to complete a quick double as Ventry Faith made the most of a perfect draw on the fence to win the last quarter final in front running fashion.

Padraig O’Murchu’s son of Droopys Sydney and Ballycowen Lucy doesn’t always get the start right but on this occasion he was pretty much paw-perfect.

Charging up the fence, he led Faypoint Harvey into the back straight. Rushy Meadows displayed fine pace into the third turn to go second but there was no catching the leader. Running right to the line, Ventry Faith emerged a comfortable two length winner over Rushy Meadows in 29.45. Faypoint Harvey was two and a half lengths further back in third.

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HUNT FOR DERBY GLORY CONTINUES

The pursuit of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby continues at Shelbourne Park this evening with twenty-three of Ireland best as well as the UK’s finest still in the hunt.

By the end of this evening’s action the field will be down to the lucky final twelve but expect plenty of drama.

Certainly, a number of big names are likely to exit this evening and predicting the twelve names that will go into the draw for the semi-finals is nearly impossible. One name that is fully expected to be in the draw is that of Bockos Diamond.

The sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat smashed the track record last weekend and will be a red-hot favourite for the final heat. His kennel companions Bombay Pat and Cheap Sandwiches will also top the market in their respective heats, while Carrick Aldo has been backed into favouritism for the remaining heat. Below is a heat-by-heat guide to this evening’s quarter final action.  

PAT FACES HIS TOUGHEST TEST

The opening quarter final is perhaps the hottest contest of the Derby thus far.

Bombay Pat will likely start favourite from the outside box but only his very best will suffice with English Derby champion De Lahdedah, Ballinabola Jim, who is on a run of seven wins, and brilliant UK raider March On Freddie in opposition.

Superfast Gorden and Cheque For Cash may be available at much bigger prices but both have real ability and can’t be dismissed either. Certainly, Cheque For Cash has tremendous early speed and is likely to race prominently which could affect those around him. 

Bombay Pat has a good draw but can’t afford to produce a tardy start. With Ballinabola Jim and March On Freddie drawn on his immediate inner, he needs to get into top stride soon after lid rise. Ballinabola Jim has been a revelation through the classic and will have support in five. Hcan get involved if producing another slick exit.

Much has been made of the draw of March On Freddie in four but this scribe firmly believes it has given him the best opportunity to return to winning ways. He is drawn on the right side of Ballinabola Jim and Bombay Pat as clearing them on the outside would be very difficult. If he were to come away racing, he could make a bold bid for Dave Mullins.

De Lahdedah will also have plenty of support from a kind draw on the fence. A fast start is required but his qualities are there for all to see. It really is a brilliant contest, one that would be fitting of the final itself. Bombay Pat is given the nod but nothing will come easy. March On Freddie, De Lahdedah and Ballinabola Jim will be waiting to pounce should the favourite make any errors, however small.

SANDWICHES TO SATISFY

Graham Holland has a particularly strong hand in the second of the quarter finals with the top two in the market.

After two ultra-professional displays in recent weeks, Cheap Sandwiches will be odds-on from the outside box.

Oaks winner A Lucky Julie lines up on his immediate inner in five. She won’t be shy of support, although she will most likely have to do it the hard way. A fast starter, she does lack a yard into the turn but finishes with real gusto.

Chap Sandwiches is likely to get the better of her into the turn, however. Untold Dollar, a kennel companion to the favourite, is seriously fast but his trapping is a major concern. There is no doubting the size of his engine and, were he to produce a slick exit, he would be a major player.

However, if he doesn’t come away on terms, it’s possible the likes of Ballymac Briar and Singalong Dolly could make his life difficult. Mustang Fever is running well but looks up against it. Cheap Sandwiches is chosen to come home in front with Untold Dollar, A Lucky Julie and Singalong Dolly expected to emerge as the main dangers.    

ALDO WILL BID TO MAKE ALL

Styles makes fights is a famous adage in boxing. Well, styles will certainly make for excitement in Heat 3 where Carrick Aldo is set to set a blistering gallop only for a host of strong runners to come at him in the second half.

Carrick Aldo was brilliant behind Bockos Diamond last week, posting a rapid 29.15. A former Irish Sprint Cup winner, the David Murray trained star has tremendous pace and is an almost certain pace-setter from in the stripes but his many supporters will be throwing an anxious glance in behind at the second turn.

Da Bold Falcon, Undulation and Extra Gain are all blessed with incredible pace and power and would be hugely dangerous if turning close, as would English Derby runner-up Boylesports Bob. The latter has a massive engine and could have the race run to suit.

He has yet to get his trapping right but has been showing incredible pace, winning his opening round assignment in 29.25, while posting 29.23 behind Undulation last week. Were he to turn in second or third, which is possible, he would emerge a big threat to Carrick Aldo, who is a tentative choice.

DIAMOND CAN CONTINUE HIS WINNING WAYS

Bockos Diamond has already earned his place in history, smashing the track record for 550yds last weekend but he is after an even greater prize. He will aim to continue his march to Derby glory in the final heat.

Once again drawn in the orange jacket, the sensational tracker will go to traps a long odds-on favourite to bring his winning sequence to thirteen straight. Remarkably, he seems to be getting better with each and every appearance, culminating in last weekend’s incredible record-breaking effort.

Callaway Knegare and Seven Beach are the only runners, other than the favourite, at single figure odds. Juvenile Derby champion Callaway Knegare has struggled to find the gaps in recent outings but is incredibly fast. He requires a fast start to turn close enough to figure. Seven Beach has already locked horns with Bockos Diamond, putting it up to him in their first encounter. He can race prominently but it would require something very special for the Jennifer O’Donnell trained star to clear Bockos Diamond into the bend.

His kennel companion Scooby Pacemaker has been in the form of his career. He flies from the second turn and stays on strongly. Whether he can turn close enough has yet to be seen.

Short Grip can certainly turn close. A fast starter, she has been in superb form lately and can’t be completely dismissed, while the same can be said for Hawkfield Blue, although he will also need to be at his very sharpest in the opening yards.

Bockos Diamond remains the one to beat. Few can match him for brute speed and after twelve wins on the bounce, it seems safe to expect another despite the quality of his opposition.

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

The quarter finals of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate will also provide top-class racing.

The withdrawal of ante-post favourite Coosane Pickles (in season) is a blow to the competition but there are still a number of stars on show.

SYD TO PROVE TOO SLICK

Early speed could be the difference in the first two quarter finals.

Tribal Syd will be a hot favourite to win the opening heat. He flew to the turn last week only to lose a little momentum when beginning to turn left. It cost him a couple of lengths before he was picked up in the final strides.

A week on, he can make every inch from the outside trap to lead home Dark Dilemma, Scooby The Boss and Hawkfield Abbie.

DAZZLER TO SHINE BRIGHT

Knockeen Dazzler can follow up his opening round success in Heat 2.

He also has tremendous early speed and is set to lead his rivals into the back straight. Leger finalist Miami King also impressed last week and is the main threat, while In Good Time and Elite Josh could figure if the big two make any mistakes. Knockeen Dazzler is selected to make all to see off Miami King. 

KING TO REIGN

In the absence of Coosane Pickles, Carmac King will be odds on for Heat 3 and is impossible to oppose. At one point during the summer, he was almost Derby favourite but has struggled to return to his very best since making his comeback after injury.

Last week’s success was a clear sign of a return to some form and he can improve further to come home clear of Deelish Nora and Ballyhooly Bruno.

HARVEY TO FOLLOW UP

Faypoint Harvey has the draw to follow up his impressive opening round success in the final heat.

With Phoenix Memphis expected to cut inwards from four, Faypoint Harvey could have room to race in the early yards.

A wonderful 29.24 winner last week, he would be hard to stop if getting loose. Magical Sapphire certainly has the pace to play a big part rom a wide draw but needs to contain Faypoint Harvey in the early yards.

The aforementioned Phoenix Memphis would also have claims if getting loose, while Ventry Faith and Rushy Meadows have plenty of pace but need to find a start.  

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PICKLES A PLATE NON-RUNNER

Word came through on Thursday afternoon that Coosane Pickles has been withdrawn from the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate after coming in season.

A brilliant opening round scorer in 29.21, she had been installed a warm favourite for the competition but it wasn’t meant to be with mother nature stepping in.

It means Heat 3 will be a five-dog affair with Carmac King now a red-hot favourite with sponsors Boylesports to come home in front from trap five.

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BOYLESPORTS OFFER HEAT PRICES FOR PLATE

The Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate will continue at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night and sponsors Boylesports have offered up heat prices. In all, there are three odds-on chances in the four heats with fastest opening round scorer Coosane Pickles amongst them. 

She is 8-13 to win Heat 3 after last weekend’s brilliant 29.21 return with Carmac King introduced as her main market rival at 11-4. Tibal Syd (8-11) is odds-on for the opening heat, while Knockeen Dazzler is also a very short price (4-6) for Heat 2. The final heat is seen as a far more open affair with impressive opening round winner Faypoint Harvey topping the market at 9-4. Magical Sapphire is just on his heels at 11-4, while Phoenix Memphis is also a restrictive price at 3-1. The full betting can be found below:

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate – Quarter finals

Boylesports bet

Heat 1

5          Scooby The Boss

6          Hawkfield Abbie

16       Ballybough Nutz

7-2      Dark Dilemma

10       Tivoli Milo

8-11   Tribal Syd 

Heat 2

10       Elite Josh

14       Fire Height Kane

11-4   Miami King

25       Burgess Supreme

9-2      In Good Time

4-6      Knockeen Dazzler

Heat 3

20       Benalmadena Puma

6          Deelish Nora

8          Ballyhooly Bruno

14       Radical Scoby

11-4   Carmac King

8-13   Coosane Pickles 

Heat 4

6          Ventry Faith

8          Daraghs Sydney

5          Rushy Meadows

3          Phoenix Memphis

9-4      Faypoint Harvey

11-4   Magical Sapphire

******

A COUPLE ALREADY ATTRACTING SUPPORT IN DERBY QUARTER-FINALS

Damien Lonergan tells anyone listening that he is the hardest working man in Irish greyhound racing after yours truly but he really was working hard this weekend, getting the quarter final heats of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby priced up within hours of the draw.

And a phone call on Sunday evening confirmed there had already been significant support for a couple including Carrick Aldo and Callaway Knegare. The former ran a huge race behind Bockos Diamond in the third round and has been backed from 2-1 into 13-8 for the third quarter final. As a result Boylesports Bob has been pushed out from 2-1 to 9-4.

Callaway Knegare faces a very tough test in the final heat where he must take on the new track record holder and hot favourite Bockos Diamond, but he was subject to a chunky bet at 11-2 for the heat and is now 5-1. Bocko Diamond remains the 4-11 favourite for the heat.

Elsewhere, Bombay Pat has been introduced at 2-1 for the hottest heat of the round, Heat 1. He takes on the likes of De Lahdedah (10-3), March On Freddie and Ballinabola Jim (both 3-1), while Cheap Sandwiches is the 4-6 favourite for Heat 2. The heat prices can be seen below:

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Boylesports’ quarter final prices:

Heat 1

10-3   De Lahdedah

10       Superfast Gorden

12       Cheque For Cash

3          March On Freddie

3          Ballinabola Jim

2          Bombay Pat

Heat 2

3          Untold Dollar

14       Ballymac Briar

8          Singalong Dolly

25       Mustang Fever

5          A Lucky Julie

4-6      Cheap Sandwiches

Heat 3

20       Extra Gain

7-2      Da Bold Falcon

3          Undulation

33       Is She There

9-4      Boylesports Bob

13-8               Carrick Aldo

Heat 4

5-1      Callaway Knegare

12       Hawkfield Blue

20       Short Grip

16       Scooby Pacemaker

4-11   Bockos Diamond

5          Seven Beach

 ******

BOCKOS DIAMOND NOW JUST 6-4 FOR DERBY GLORY

After laying a number of bets at 10-1 and 8-1 for the track record to go, Derby sponsors, Boylesports, are taking no chances with Bockos Diamond in the outright market and have slashed the sensational son of Dorotas Wildcat to 6-4 for Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby glory.

It comes as no shock given the incredible display he produced on Saturday night, smashing the four-year old mark of Pestana. He is without doubt the shortest priced Derby favourite going into the quarter finals of the classic in many, many years.

The top of the market will make kind reading for Graham Holland and those involved with his Riverside Kennels outfit as the top three in the betting are all based in Golden. Bombay Pat is the nearest rival to his kennel companion Bockos Diamond at 8-1, while another kennelmate, Cheap Sandwiches, is now just 10-1 with Boylesports following his latest brilliant effort.

English Derby champion De Lahdedah, Juvenile Derby winner Callaway Knegare and the UK’s finest March On Freddie make up a talented trio on the 12-1 mark, while Da Bold Falcon, Seven Beach, Ballinabola Jim and Boylesports Bob all sit on 16-1.  

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Boylesports bet:

6-4      Bockos Diamond

8          Bombay Pat

10       Cheap Sandwiches

12       De Lahdedah

12       Callaway Knegare

12       March On Freddie

16       Da Bold Falcon

16       Boylesports Bob

16       Ballinabola Jim

16       Seven Beach

20       Undulation

25       Untold Dollar

25       Carrick Aldo

33       Scooby Pacemaker

33       A Lucky Julie

40       Short Grip

40       Hawkfield Blue

40       Superfast Gorden

50       Cheque For Cash

50       Singalong Dolly

66       Extra Gain

66       Ballymac Briar

66       Mustang Fever

150     Is She There

******

PICKLES NOW CLEAR FAVOURITE FOR PLATE

Coosane Pickles was at her brilliant best at Shelbourne Park on Friday night, setting the standard in the opening round of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate with a brilliant 29.21 return.

As a result, she has been promoted to clear favouritism with sponsors Boylesports.

Knockeen Dazzler also impressed making all to win his heat and is next in at 6-1, just ahead of Tibal Syd and Faypoint Harvey. The latter posted a very fast 29.24 on his way to victory in the final heat and was the biggest mover in the betting. Beyond that quartet, Carmac King is just 10-1, while Phoenix Memphis and Miami King were both cut to 12-1 after impressing in their respective opening round assignments. The remainder of the Plate will now switch to Saturday nights and the full market can be seen below:

Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate

Boylesports bet:

7-2      Coosane Pickles

6          Knockeen Dazzler

8          Tribal Syd

8          Faypoint Harvey

10       Carmac King

12       Phoenix Memphis

12       Miami King

14       Magical Sapphire

14       Rushy Meadows

20       Ventry Faith

20       In Good Time

20       Dark Dilemma

20       Deelish Nora

20       Scooby The Boss

25       Tivoli Milo

25       Radical Scoby

25       Ballyhooly Bruno

25       Hawkfield Abbie

33       Elite Josh

40       Daraghs Sydney

40       Benalmadena Puma

40       Fire Height Kane

50       Ballybough Nutz

100     Burgess Supreme

******

DIAMOND BREAKS HIS OWN THIRD BEND RECORD

Another week means another masterclass from Bockos Diamond, only last weekend’s led to a sensational track record breaking performance.

It will also come as no surprise that he bettered his own third bend record with a scarcely believable 16.63.

To highlight just how fast that actually is, no greyhound other than himself has posted within two lengths of that sectional ever, while next fastest on the night was his own kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches, who posted 16.92.

They were the only two greyhounds to break the 17 second barrier with another kennel companion Bombay Pat nearest to the pair in 17.03. He only took the lead a stride or two before the third bend mark which makes upgrades the display.

Undulation got lose for the first time in the Derby, clocking 17.11 meaning she came home in very fast 12.05.

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
Bockos Diamond (F)	16.85	16.68	16.63
Cheap Sandwiches		16.95	16.92
Bombay Pat (F)	16.93	17.03	17.03
Undulation			17.11
Untold Dollar			17.24
Ballinabola Jim	17.22	16.96	17.25
Ballymac Briar			17.27
Extra Gain			17.59
Grangeclare Lady (F)	17.19	16.93
Seven Beach (F)	17.09	16.96
Bubbly Shadow		16.98
De Lahdedah		17.03
Cheque For Cash (F)		17.08
Whyaye Bonnylad		17.11
Droopys Metaphor (F)		17.19
Scooby Pacemaker		17.19
Kapuka Warrior (F)	17.12	17.22
Robbies Galaxy		17.35
Glitzy Magic (F)		17.72
Denos Bay		n/a
Carrick Aldo	16.92
Tribal Syd	17.00
Tarsna Maasai	17.03
Short Grip	17.04
March On Freddie	17.08
Clona Duke	17.12
Singalong Dolly	17.16
Knockeen Dazzler	17.17
Glengar Martha	17.19
Dynamic Force	17.20
Breaghmore Dice	17.27
Down To Business	17.27
Ballymac Danica	17.30
Deelish Nora	17.32
Jaytee Craze	17.35
Tinahue Pappone	17.38
Quarry Boy	17.40
In Good Time	17.44
Born To Perform	17.54
Ballyhimikin Leo	17.64

******

DIAMOND EARNS HIS PLACE IN HISTORY AS DERBY DELIGHTS

Bockos Diamond is the fastest greyhound to ever race over 550yds around Shelbourne Park.

There were many wonderful displays at the famous venue on Saturday night in the third round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby but each was eclipsed by the record-breaking run of Bockos Diamond as he again left even the most hard-nosed observers reaching for superlatives.

This was greyhound racing at its best. Yes, Bockos Diamond deserved the headlines but his handler Graham Holland also had a very special night, sending out no fewer than half of the eight heat winners with Untold Dollar, Bombay Pat and Cheap Sandwiches completing the four-timer. Below is our heat-by-heat guide to the third round.

Heat 1 – BOCKOS IS A ONE OF A KIND DIAMOND

Many were of the belief that Bockos Diamond would struggle to match his sensational second round effort but he didn’t just better it, he also lowered the track record as he produced yet another flawless display of front running to earn his place in history.

Pic right: Bockos Diamond on his way to victory in Heat 1, third round of the BoyleSports Derby.  Pic: Imelda Grauer

This was truly one of the best displays ever seen on any greyhound track on the planet by a greyhound that will go down as one of the all-time greats. Sent off a 1-5 favourite, both he and his nearest market rival, Carrick Aldo, came away racing on the outside of the track.

Showing astounding early speed, Bockos Diamond quickly asserted into the turn. To race clear of a former Irish Sprint Cup winner is scarcely believable but neither what was to follow. Hitting the turn with a length and a half to spare, Bockos Diamond edged onto the fence, running a wonderful corner to increase his advantage into the back straight.

Moving on by three lengths, Bockos Diamond was on his way to a famous success by the time he straightened up into the back straight. Carrick Aldo continued to run with real purpose in second, doing all he could to stay in touch with the leader but Bockos Diamond was striding out majestically.

The Graham Holland trained son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow was almost four lengths clear by the third turn and still moving purposefully. Posting a fastest ever 16.63 to the third turn, the brilliant brindle was clearly on his way to producing something special.

Carrick Aldo continued to chase hard in second but Bockos Diamond would race on to the most sensational three length victory in 28.94. The Remember Them Syndicate owned superstar took five hundredths of a second off the previous best of Pestana to become the fastest greyhound to ever cover 550yds on Irish soil. Superfast Gorden was another four lengths back in third.       

Heat 2 – BRIAR WINS A THRILLER

Ballymac Briar (Ballymac Cashout/ Ballymac Cams) certainly made the most of an inside draw to win an eventful and rather thrilling second heat.

The race to the turn was competitive with five greyhounds within a length of the lead into the bend, It was clear something had to give.

Ballymac Briar, after a fast start from trap one, held a narrow lead into the turn where he nudged Bubbly Shadow, in two, causing traffic for a few of those on their outside.

With Bubbly Shadow running off the turn, cannoning into Tarsna Maasai, De Lahdedah was left second behind his pace-setting kennel companion. Scooby Pacemaker was next with Deadly Choice fourth.

Ballymac Briar looked like a sitting duck up front but clearly wasn’t feeling the pressure.

De Lahdedah closed into the third turn as did Scooby Pacemaker but Ballymac Briar was in no humour to surrender his advantage. All the way to the line, De Lahdedah and Scooby Pacemaker closed but Ballymac Briar would hold on for Maurice Brick and Liam Dowling to score by a head from Scooby Pacemaker in 29.68 with De Lahdedah just a short head away in third.    

Heat 3 – DOLLAR GETS LOOSE

Callum and John Purdy’s Untold Dollar had the draw of all draws on the rail in Heat 3 with his two nearest neighbours absent after being withdrawn.

This left him with plenty of room on the inside of the track but he still had to work hard to get to the front.

Last from traps, the Graham Holland trained son of Newinn Taylor and Glenegat Mildred had to work his way into contention into the bend. He was still last on the corner but was close enough to push Is She There into Glengar Martha, who in turn ran into Seven Beach.

Suddenly, Untold Dollar found himself with a lot more room and a narrow advantage. Once turning into the back straight with a couple of lengths in hand, the race was over as a contest. Seven Beach recovered very well to move second but Callum and John Purdy’s Untold Dollar was on his own up front and charged to the winning line to win by six lengths in 29.34. Seven Beach lost nothing in defeat in second while Is She There was best of the remainder in third, a half length further back. 

Heat 4 – EXTRA GAINS AN ADVANTAGE

Attempting to accurately describe Heat 4 in detail would need pages of copy but, needless to say, plenty happened in the opening exchanges before eventual winner, 25-1 chance Extra Gain, was left in front off the second turn.

March On Freddie was the warm favourite in the stripes although he was headed in the early yards by the fast starting A Lucky Julie. Grangeclare Lady also went up well on the fence but March On Freddie was in front by the turn.

All seemed set for the UK raider to drive around in front only for him to get his heels clipped before taking a further bump from Grangeclare Lady. Suddenly, Tuono Charlie was given a seam up the inside and looked certain to take control only for him to check wide off the second turn, causing further mayhem.

For the final time in the contest, the lead changed hands with the Gerry Holian trained Extra Gain left in front. Susan Garrahy’s powerful son of Pestana and Slippery Jade was always going to take some catching but great credit must go to those that chased him home.

March On Freddie recovered wonderfully well to finish second, while A Lucky Julie also ran on with real purpose to take third. Extra Gain would win, however, by a half length in 29.82. In turn, March On Freddie had the same margin to spare over A Lucky Julie.

Heat 5 – SEVEN UP FOR BIG JIM

Ballinabola Jim continued his incredible run of form with a brave display in Heat 5, completing a seven-timer for Brendan Murphy and the Murphy Ballinabola Syndicate.

The massive son of Good News and Ballinabola Rum was sent to traps the 11-8 favourite and his many followers would have been a little concerned into the turn.

Hot Wood and Thats It Jack broke fastest from the middle with the former going up the faster to hold a narrow lead. Meanwhile, Ballinabola Jim took a couple of bumps from Dynamic Force, who was also attempting to get into a prominent position by the bend.

Hot Wood was almost a length to the good but he seemed to be slipped on the heels. At the same time, Ballinabola Jim attempted to drive the turn. The pair clashed, while Dynamic Force and Thats It Jack both lost ground as they were left short of room.

Da Bold Falcon was now in prime position to take advantage, staying tight to the fence to move third. Up front, Hot Wood and Ballinabola Jim were side by side between the opening bends but, despite his huge frame, the latter displayed great balance to recover and take over at the second bend.

Ballinabola Jim, known as Big Jim to his friends, hit the halfway mark a length to the good over Hot Wood, while Da Bold Falcon was just a length further adrift in third and moving with menace.

By the third turn, Da Bold Falcon was in second and starting to close on Ballinabola Jim. In a tremendous finish, Ballinabola Jim dug deep to contain his rival by a half length in 29.39. There was a three lengths gap to Singalong Dolly and Hot Wood, who dead-heated for third. Singalong Dolly would subsequently progress after winning a coin toss. 

Heat 6 – BRILLIANT PAT AT HIS VERY BEST

For the first time in this year’s Derby, the Graham Holland trained Bombay Pat failed to set the pace into the back straight in Heat 6 but, in many ways, this made his success even more impressive.

Short Grip flew from four and led the field into the turn with Bombay Pat and Callaway Knegare in her slipstream.

Even at this early stage it was evident the winner could only come from the first three. Short Grip continued to set a strong gallop into the back straight but Bombay Pat, owned by Pat Muldoon and Bayliss Gee, began to move through the gears as they hit halfway. Charging up the outside of the leader, he took charge into the third turn.

In contrast, Callaway Knegare found Short Grip in his way when attempting to slip through at the same point. In the style of a greyhound that clearly meant business, Bombay Pat shot clear to put the result beyond doubt.

Both Short Grip and Callaway Knegare stayed on well up the straight but Bombay Pat would claim his fifth victory on the bounce by two and a half lengths in 29.30. Short Grip held off Callaway Knegare by a length. 

Heat 7 – SANDWICHES SIMPLY OUTSTANDING

Cheap Sandwiches, owned by the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate, is looking every inch a serious Derby contender and his display in the penultimate heat only cemented that view.

Hawkfield Blue flashed from trap two but Cheap Sandwiches was soon on the case on the outside of the track.

Showing tremendous early speed to join Hawkfield Blue on the bend, the hugely talented son of Burgess Bucks and Hearthill Josie ran a wonderful second turn to move on. Showing electric pace, he opened a race-winning advantage to halfway and continued to pile on the pressure to the final bend.

Hawkfield Blue did rally on the run in but Cheap Sandwiches was ultra-impressive as he coasted home a two length winner in a very fast 29.18, in turn completing an exceptional four-timer for Graham Holland. Mustang Fever was fourth in the early yards but moved past House Martin down the back straight to go third, where she was to finish, three lengths behind Hawkfield Blue.

Heat 8 – UNDULATION TOO STRONG

Undulation was at her brilliant best in the final heat, showing huge pace to get to the front and massive power to contain the late charge of Boylesports Bob.

Brendan Matthews’ brilliant daughter of Pestana and Unlock Unlock was faster into stride than recent outings and was a close fourth behind the fast-starting duo of Whyaye Bonnylad and Cheque For Cash.

By the turn, Cheque For Cash had taken the lead and cut for the fence, leaving Whyaye Bonnylad short of room and allowing Undulation to go second. By halfway, the brilliantly fast Undulation had taken the lead from Cheque For Cash but Boylesports Bob was now on a charge on the outside of the track.

Undulation hit the third turn a length and a half to the good but Boylesports Bob was now a serious threat. Importantly, the pair were on the same racing line and Boylesports Bob was left with a choice, to challenge up the inside or switch wide.     

BY the time he made up his mind, it was too late. Undulation is immensely strong and she ran right to the line to emerge a length winner in a brilliant 29.16. Cheque For Cash was best of the remainder in third, some four and a half lengths further adrift. 

******

RANDOLPH A DERBY NON-RUNNER

Randolph Scotts has been withdrawn from the third round of the Boylesports Derby after Peter Cronin admitted they lost the race to have him ready on time after coming off the track lame last week.

Thankfully, it’s nothing too serious and he will be back on the track in the near future. It means that there are now two non-runners in Heat 3 following the withdrawal of Fairy Footsteps earlier in the week.

******

FIREWORKS LIKELY AS DERBY CONTINUES AT SHELBOURNE

For the first time in this year’s Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, the entire field will be in action on the same night at Shelbourne Park this evening.

Last week’s second round was crammed with sensational displays and it seems safe to expect more of the same.

All eight heats are of a truly wonderful standard and on a weekend when there were plenty of fireworks elsewhere, it’s likely there will be plenty more on the track. Below is a heat by heat guide to tonight’s Derby action.

EXPECT MORE FLASH FROM DIAMOND

Bockos Diamond will understandably start a red-hot favourite for the opening heat after posting a simply incredible 29.03 last week.

The sensationally fast son of Dorotas Wildcat went faster to the third turn than any greyhound in history and a repeat of that display would certainly see him account for Carrick Aldo once again.

The latter was five lengths behind Bockos Diamond last week and yet lost nothing in defeat. He can again emerge the main danger. Superfast Gorden will have some support from a kind draw on the fence but only his very best will suffice while the remaining trio certainly need luck on their side.

Expect Bockos Diamond and Carrick Aldo to race clear of their rivals with the former set to fully justify his position as hot favourite for Derby glory.

MAASAI TO MAKE MOST OF DRAW IN HOT AFFAIR

English Derby hero De Lahdedah will start favourite in Heat 2 after his thoroughly professional second round victory but has a tricky draw to contend with.

Flanked by impressive second round scorers Bubbly Shadow and Scooby Pacemaker, racing room could be at a premium in the opening yards.

If De Lahdedah fails to match his flying start of last weekend, he could find himself short of room in three with Scooby Pacemaker, drawn on his right shoulder, likely to edge inwards. That could potentially leave the door open for the razor-sharp Tarsna Maasai in trap five.

The well-built son of Droopys Sydney has been in superb form or Geof Parnaby and would be a tough nut to crack should he turn in front. De Lahdedah is obviously a worthy favourite and a big threat but circumstances could conspire against him.

Bubbly Shadow will have support after his latest impressive run. He seems to have all the qualities needed to go far in the Derby, while big finisher Deadly Choice will also attract some support. Scooby Pacemaker was also hugely impressive last week, posting a rapid 29.16 but he will have to work even harder to get loose tonight in what looks on paper one of the strongest heats of the Derby thus far.

DOLLAR TO SEE OFF BEACH

Seven Beach will be a warm favourite to continue his winning ways in Heat 3 but the presence of Glengar Martha on his immediate inner could prove a slight concern.

The later seems to be returning to her very best with each start after a seasonal rest and she can certainly go up fast.

Seven Beach may still have too much ammunition for that rival in the opening exchanges but he could be distracted for long enough to allow Untold Dollar take advantage along the fence. The latter has been showing exceptional pace but hasn’t had a clear run in some time.

If he were to come away racing from in the inside box, he could potentially post a very fast time. One suspects he will have too much early speed for Randolph Scotts and, with a vacant box in three, following the withdrawal of Fairy Footsteps, he could have all the room he needs into the bend.

Seven Beach and Untold Dollar are clearly the big two in this contest and could go head to head down the back straight but Untold Dollar just gets the nod with his price swaying the vote. Glengar Martha can take third at the expense of Is She There and Randolph Scotts.

FREDDIE SET TO MARCH ON

UK raider March On Freddie is a short price to maintain his unbeaten record in the competition in Heat 4 but his task is less than straightforward.

The Dave Mullins trained star was sensational in the opening round, getting loose early to clock 29.19.

A week on, he had to work considerably harder in his second-round victory but displayed all his power to come to the fore at the third turn. He needs to return to his fast-starting ways tonight. With Grangeclare Lady and Down To Business to contend with in the opening yards, he certainly won’t get things all his own way and were he to be held up at the third turn, the fast finishing trio of Tuono Charlie, Extra Gain and A Lucky Julie will be waiting for the opportunity fire their shot.

March On Freddie is a worthy favourite, however. He has a blend speed and power and is likely to get first crack at Grangeclare Lady. If getting around her without any hold up, he would be almost impossible to pick up.

Tuono Charlie is seen as the main threat after a stunning run in defeat last week but the make-up of tonight’s race isn’t quite as kind. He can finish with a flourish but March On Freddie is very strong himself and can race to another impressive success.

BIG JIM FACING A TOUGH TEST

Ballinabola Jim is on a run of six straight wins, is clearly in the form of his career and posted a sensational 29.07 last weekend.

For all these reasons, he will be a deserving favourite to continue his winning ways in Heat 5 where he is opposed by some very talented performers including Dynamic Force, Da Bold Falcon and Singalong Dolly.

This could develop into quite a contest but Ballinabola Jim is the starting point when looking to solve the puzzle. Big Jim, as he is affectionately known, flew from traps to post a 3.38 sectional last week. A repeat of that start would almost certainly do the trick for Brendan Murphy’s charge but anything slower could leave the door open for his rivals.

Dynamic Fair was only third last week but actually enhanced his reputation, showing massive pace to recover from all sorts of traffic for a third placed finish. He can go up far faster and would emerge a serious threat to Ballinabola Jim if coming away on terms. One suspects there is a big Shelbourne Park run coming from the Paul Hennessy trained star.

Da Bold Falcon will attempt to arrive late and fast. He displayed all his power to win last week and will likely make the frame if finding the gaps, particularly at the third turn. Singalong Dolly was mighty impressive in the opening round and ran well in defeat last time. She needs to have her trapping boots on but is also respected in a hot contest.

Thats It Jack and Hot Wood complete the line-up and have been running very well but both need a career best effort to threaten on this occasion. In what really is an intriguing contest, Ballinabola Jim is selected but Dynamic Force and Da Bold Falcon can certainly give him plenty to think about.

PAT LOOKS BOMB PROOF

Much like Ballinabola Jim, Bombay Pat has been in imperious form and is also looking to extend a winning sequence.

He has scarcely seen a rival in his last four starts and will be odds-on to continue his winning ways in Heat 6.  

The Graham Holland trained star may not be the most fluent at traps but his early speed is pretty special and he will charge up the outside of the track to challenge. Short Grip and Kapuka Warrior are likely to race prominently but Bombay Pat may have too much ammunition for the duo and is chosen to go to the front.

Juvenile Derby winner Callaway Knegare has a huge engine and while he has been expensive to follow in recent weeks, there is a huge run bubbling under the surface. If he does find the gaps, he will certainly make the frame but picking up Bombay Pat would be a huge ask were the favourite to get loose at the head of affairs.

SANDWICHES LOOKS TASTY

On top of Bockos Diamond and Bombay Pat, Graham Holland will send out another odds-on favourite in the form of Cheap Sandwiches is another with obvious Derby claims for Graham Holland.

He is set to start odds on in Heat 7 where Hawkfield Blue is second choice in the betting.

The presence of the rails-seeking House Martin is a slight concern for Hawkfield Blue, however, and were the pair to clash in the early yards, Cheap Sandwiches could find himself in front before the opening turn.

After a thoroughly professional 29.20 return last week, it would be something of a shock if he were to relinquish his potential advantage. Mustang Fever will race from trap four and needs to hit the ground running. Toolmaker Curio has a good draw on the fence but needs to hit the ground running to even land a blow, while Blackeyed Turbo will finish fastest but may have too much work to do. 

BOB TO BOUNCE BACK

The final heat of the round is perhaps the most intriguing of the eight.

Boylesports Bob will bid to atone for an odds-on defeat last weekend and is a worthy favourite in the stripes, although nothing will come easy as his rivals which include the very talented Undulation, Cheque For Cash, Dashing Toro and the rapidly improving Beanos Podge.

Whyaye Bonnylad is the most likely leader from two but he is vulnerable from halfway and may struggle to hold on. If he does dictate, it could hamper the claims of Cheque For Cash who probably needs to turn in front to score, while Beanos Podge will need to pick the right moment to challenge.

Instead, it’s perhaps best to concentrate on the strong running trio in the outside of the track. Boylesports Bob will be very difficult to hold with a clear passage and is selected to come home in front but both Undulation and Dashing Toro represent value and must enter calculations.   

******

PICKLES AND HARVEY FASTEST IN PLATE

The Michael Fortune Memorial Plate got underway and there were a number of superb displays but the best was left until late with Coosane Pickles and Faypoint Harvey setting the standard in the final two heats.  

Clement Ryan’s Coosane Pickles was at her very best in Heat 7, showing all her power and pace to justify odds-on favouritism. The Michael O’Donovan trained daughter of Droopys Sydney and Droopys Pickles was fourth into the turn but moved third as they straightened up into the back straight.

Charging into the third turn, she shot between High Trend and In Good Time to go to the front. From there, she stayed on strongly to eventually emerge a comfortable five length scorer over In Good Time in a brilliant 29.21. Ventry Faith was three lengths further back in third. 

HARVEY HOPS OUT TO DOMINATE

The Graham Holland trained Faypoint Harvey produced a career best display in the final heat of the round, showing tremendous pace after a fast start from trap four.

By the turn, he had matters well in hand and proceeded to draw clear into the third turn.  

Patricia Flanagan’s son of Droopys Sydney and Roaming Shari would eventually run out a superb winner. Deelish Nora came home in second but Faypoint Harvey was in irrepressible form, eventually hitting the line seven lengths clear in a fast 29.24. Benalmadena Puma was best of the rest, a further two lengths back.

A WALK FOR MEMPHIS

Phoenix Memphis was a hot favourite for the opening heat and never gave his followers a moment’s worry.

Trained by Ian Reilly for the Keogh Cunningham Reilly Syndicate, the talented son of Droopys Sydney and Swift Jezebel dominated from the opening strides. Blastoff Rex gave chase but he ran out of steam after being clipped from behind around the last two bends. Elite Josh came through to take second but Phoenix Memphis would emerge a facile six and a half length winner in 29.47.

KING REIGNS SUPREME

Miami King won the second heat in very similar fashion for Garry Dempsey and owners Tony Howard and Dave Lawrence.

The son of Ballymac Vic and newline Mo shot from the inside box to make every inch at the expense of the always second Daraghs Sydney. At the line Miami King was five lengths to the good in 29.50. Fire Height Kane was another length further back in third.

KING LEAVES IT LATE

Tribal Syd set a searching gallop in Heat 3 but Carmac King (Droopys Sydney/ Peters Queen) was too strong at the business end as he claimed his first victory since July, getting up under the shadow of the post to beat the long-time pace-setter.

Tribal Syd flew from the outside box to hold a comfortable lead but Clona Duke and Carmac King were less than three lengths down as they entered the back straight. Behind the pace-setter, Clona Duke and Carmac King were locked in a battle for second.

It was at the third turn that Timmy Carmody’s Carmac King got the better of Clona Duke before starting to close on the leader. In a tremendous finish, the Owen McKenna trained Carmac King drew closer and closer to pounce on the line, winning by a short head in 29.58. Radical Scoby ran on to finish two and a half lengths further back in third.

DAZZLER GETS LOOSE

Knockeen Dazzler needed the line in Heat 4 but the Kirby memorial champ ultimately made every inch to hold Ballyhooly Bruno by a half length in 29.44.

Trained by Pat Guilfoyle for Daniel O’Rahilly, Knockeen Dazzler was sharper than his rivals to the turn and quickly built what would be a race-winning advantage.

Ballyhooly Bruno ran a tremendous second turn to head Bockos Crystal to move second but he could never quite get on terms with the leader despite inching closing all the way to the line. Scooby the Boss emerged from the pack to take third, some three parts of a length adrift.

ABBIE POWERS CLEAR

Hawkfield Abbie was a good winner of Heat 5, running a tremendous second turn to take over from the fast-starting Burgess Supreme.

Forcing her way up the inside of the pace-setter off the second turn, Hawkfield Abbie continued to dictate down the back, holding Burgess Supreme by a length into the third turn.

It was from here, the Ginger McGee trained daughter of Good News and Brownstown Tango began to put distance between herself and her rivals. Magical Sapphire ran on well to grab second but Jerry Connors’ Hawkfield Abbie went on to score by four and a half lengths in 29.59. Burgess Supreme clung on for third, another half length adrift.  

MEADOWS IN A RUSH

Brendan Matthews and Gert Du Plessi’s Rushy Meadows was a tremendous winner of Heat 6, albeit it in the slowest time of the round.

Ballybough Nutz set the pace from an inside draw but Dark Dilemma and Rushy Meadows turned second and third to keep the pressure on.

As they passed halfway, Rushy Meadows flicked a switch, showing superb pace into the third turn to challenge the front two on their inner. Flying through a gap along the fence, the daughter of Droopys Sydney and Miss Pickpocket moved on before digging in to contain the challenge of Dark Dilemma by a length in 29.72. Ballybough Nutz would eventually finish two lengths further back.

******

MICHAEL FORTUNE MEMORIAL DERBY PLATE TO LIGHT UP SHELBOURNE

Tonight’s offering at Shelbourne Park will serve up some exceptional racing with the opening rounds of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate.

For those that fell early in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, the Derby Plate will offer a perfect opportunity to get back into the winning habit. Sponsors Boylesports have four co-favourites and they have all been drawn apart.

WHAT A CONTEST

Three of the top five in the betting happen to meet in Heat 3 in what is without doubt the hottest contest of the round.

2022 Juvenile Derby champion Clona Duke, Carmac King and Tribal Syd will all have plenty of support and the trio can dominate on the track itself.

Tribal Syd and Clona Duke are likely to go up fastest with the former the most likely pace-setter from an ideal draw in the stripes. Carmac King will bid to turn close behind the pair and is likely to stay on at the finish. Slight preference is for Tribal Syd but any mistakes could be very costly.

KNOCKEEN SET TO DAZZLE

Knockeen Dazzler was untypically sluggish at traps in his latest outing but he is normally a flying starter.

The Kirby Memorial champ normally flies to the turn and can set a strong gallop to make all in Heat 4. 2023 Derby runner-up Bockos Crystal and English Derby finalist Ballymac Gizmo are the most obvious dangers to Knockeen Dazzler, while Scooby The Boss has a big engine if he could find a slick exit to match.

PICKLES FACING A TOUGH TEST

Heat 7 is a hot contest also.

Coosane Pickles is the shortest of the six in the outright betting but she will need to be at her brilliant best if the likes of Juvenile Derby runner-up Innfield Destiny, 2023 Laurels champ High Trend or the talented Ventry Faith put their best foot forward.

Coosane Pickles flies down the far side and stays on with real purpose. She is chosen to get the better of High Trend and Ventry Faith.

MEMPHIS LOOKS THE PART

Phoenix Memphis has been handed an ideal draw on the fence in the opening heat.

The son of Droopys Sydney drove for the fence in his Derby heat and will certainly appreciate the draw. If he starts on terms, he is likely to outpace his rivals early and can make all to claim a fourth career victory.

Of his rivals, Tivoli Milo would emerge as the main threat if returning to anything like his best. Elite Josh and Blastoff Rex can also figure if coming away on terms.

KING CAN REIGN

Heat 2 is an open affair.

Miami King has the best of the draw on the rail but must come away racing with the likes of Glitzy Magic and Glenlara Blue waiting in the wings. Miami King has the pace and power to justify favouritism and is chosen to lead home Glenlara Blue.

SAPPHIRE TO SHINE

Magical Sapphire is nominated as the bet of the round in Heat 5.

She was desperately unlucky in the second round of the Derby when baulked at the turn when challenging for the lead. From an ideal draw in the stripes, the Pat Guilfoyle trained starlet is chosen to lead home Droopys Avatar, Prince Naseem and Hawkfield Abbie.

MEADOWS CAN RETURN TO WINNING WAYS

Rushy Meadows has been lightly raced in recent months but has shown signs of a return to her best.

If she were to come away on terms from trap two in Heat 6, she could quickly emerge as the one to beat. Dark Dilemma is a serious threat while Ballybough Nutz and Kilgraney Bolger are also respected.           

NORA THE CHOICE

Deelish Nora and Faypoint Harvey will likely dominate the betting in the final heat.

Poets Dawn is also respected from an ideal draw on the rail but Deelish Nora could get first run on her rivals. She normally goes up fast and is drawn on the right side of Faypoint Harvey, while Poets Dawn may struggle to contain her in the early yards.

******

TIGHT AT THE TOP IN PLATE BETTING

Sponsors Boylesports have issued prices on the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate and they have struggled to find a clear favourite, instead installing four co-favourites on the 8-1 mark.

Tribal Syd, Knockeen Dazzler, Clona Duke and Coosane Pickles share the mantle of favouritism, while Carmac King, High Trend and Magical Sapphire are next in at 12-1.

There’s a talented quintet on the 16-1 mark. Ballymac Gizmo, Phoenix Memphis, Faypoint Harvey, Rushy Meadows and Miami King will all have support with each potentially representing value. The full market can be found below:

Michael Fortune Derby Plate

Boylesports bet:

8                      Coosane Pickles

8                      Knockeen Dazzler

8                      Clona Duke

8                      Tribal Syd

12                   Carmac King

12                   High Trend

12                   Magical Sapphire

16                   Ballymac Gizmo

16                   Phoenix Memphis

16                   Faypoint Harvey

16                   Rushy Meadows

16                   Miami King

20                   De Foxy Devil

20                   In Good Time

20                   Innfield Destiny

20                   Deelish Nora

20                   Ventry Faith

20                   Dark Dilemma

20                   Bockos Crystal

25                   Poets Dawn

25                   Scooby The Boss

25                   Radical Scoby

33                   Tivoli Milo

33                   Droopys Avatar

33                   Hawkfield Abbie

33                   Prince Naseem

33                   Ballymac Wendy

33                   Ballybough Nutz

40                   Fire Height Kane

40                   Glitzy Magic

40                   Glenlara Blue

40                   Benalmadena Puma

50                   Blastoff Rex

50                   Friend Of Hanks

50                   Kilgraney Bolger

50                   Dromana Dano

50                   Elite Josh

50                   Daraghs Sydney

66                   Da Real Madjack

66                   Farney Chime

66                   Val Tashadelek

66                   Up Front Magic

66                   Ballyhooly Bruno

66                   Air Flyer

66                   Quarry Boy

100                 Roanna Bonnie

100                 Burgess Supreme

******

FAIRY FOOTSTEPS WITHDRAWN FROM DERBY

Fairy Footsteps has been withdrawn from the third round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby after picking up a small injury in her second-round success.

Her joint owner Willie Rigney confirmed that the talented daughter of Droopys Sydney had split a web.

It has actually been an on-going problem with the Pat Guilfoyle trained bitch and they are hoping with a few weeks rest, she could potentially be ready for a crack at the Winter Racing Festival. Her withdrawal means that trap three will be vacant in Heat 3 on Saturday night.

******

BOYLESPORTS PRICE UP DERBY THIRD ROUND HEATS

Boylesports have again been quick on the draw, pricing up each of the eight third round heats in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby.

Yesterday’s draw has been relatively kind to those in the top end of the outright betting with many kept apart.

That has resulted in a number of short priced favourites again. None will be shorter than the hot favourite Bockos Diamond. The brilliant Graham Holland trained son of Dorotas Wildcat was sensational in the second round, clocking a stunning 29.03 and he has been introduced at 1-3 to follow up that success in Heat 1. His nearest market rival is again Carrick Aldo. He was five lengths behind Bocko Diamond last week and is 4-1 to reverse that form.

March On Freddie, a litter brother to the outright favourite, is also a short price to maintain his unbeaten record. The UK raider has been installed the 4-5 market leader to win Heat 4. Tuono Charlie is seen as the main threat after a massive run behind Bockos Diamond in the second round. At 3-1, the powerful tracker will have plenty of support. A Lucky Julie and Grangeclare Lady come next in this contest at 5-1 and 6-1 respectively.   

After a career best display last weekend, Ballinabola Jim has been introduced as the 5-4 favourite for Heat 5 despite the presence of Da Bold Falcon, Dynamic Force and Singalong Dolly. It’s further evidence of his incredible progression in recent months. Da Bold Falcon is his nearest rival in the market at 11-4.

A full breakdown of the heat prices can be seen below:

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

3^rd Round heat betting

Heat 1

6          Superfast Gorden

16       Denos Bay

25       Southwood Stan

20       Clonfert Annie

1-3      Bockos Diamond

4          Carrick Aldo 

Heat 2

6          Ballymac Briar

4          Bubbly Shadow

6-4      De Lahdadah

6          Scooby Pacemaker

3          Tarsna Maasai

7          Deadly Choice 

Heat 3

5-2      Untold Dollar

10       Randolph Scotts

10       Fairy Footsteps

14       Is She There

9-2      Glengar Martha

10-11             Seven Beach

Heat 4

6          Grangeclare Lady

3          Tuono Charlie

16       Extra Gain

12       Down To Buisness

5          A Lucky Julie

4-5      March On Freddie

Heat 5

9-2      Singalong Dolly

11-4   Da Bold Falcon

20       Thats It Jack

16       Hot Wood

10-3   Dynamic Force

5-4      Ballinabola Jim

Heat 6

8          Kapuka Warrior

20       Ballyhimkin Leo

11-4   Callaway Knegare

6          Short Grip

10       Robbies Galaxy

4-6      Bombay Pat

Heat 7

14       Toolmaker Curio

7-2      Hawkfield Blue

8          House Martin

8          Mustang Fever

16       Blackeyed Turbo

8-15   Cheap Sandwiches 

Heat 8

6          Beanos Podge

10       Whyaye Bonnylad

7-2      Cheque For Cash

6          Dashing Toro

11-4   Undulation

13-8   Boylesports Bob

******

BOYLESPORTS DERBY – THIRD ROUND DRAW

The draw for the third round of the Boylesports Derby was made in the Champion Stakes suite at Shelbourne Park on Tuesday afternoon and it has predictably thrown up some very hot contests.

The name of Dashing Toro went into the draw after he was handed a walkover in the proposed run-off with UK raider Arthur Cornflake. His reward is a very tough draw in the last of the eight third round heats.

Ante-post favourite Bockos Diamond will again lock horns with Carrick Aldo in the opening heat where he is set to start a red-hot favourite, while his litter brother March On Freddie wears the stripes in an intriguing Heat 4.

March On Freddie will have to contend with the likes of Grangeclare Lady and Down To Business in the early yards, while Tuono Charlie, A Lucky Julie and Extra Gain will all be finishing fast.

The full draw can be seen below. The full form should be on-line this (Tuesday) afternoon.

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Round 3

Saturday, November 2^nd

Heat 1

1 Superfast Gorden

2 Denos Bay

3 Southwood Stan

4 Clonfert Annie (m)

5 Bockos Diamond (w)

6 Carrick Aldo (w)

Heat 2

1 Ballymac Briar

2 Bubbly Shadow

3 De Lahdedah

4 Scooby Pacemaker (m)

5 Tarsna Maasai (w)

6 Deadly Choice (w)

Heat 3

1 Untold Dollar

2 Randolph Scotts

3 Fairy Footsteps

4 I She There (m)

5 Glengar Martha (w)

6 Seven Beach (w)

Heat 4

1 Grangeclare Lady

2 Tuono Charlie

3 Extra Gain

4 Down To Business (m)

5 A Lucky Julie (w)

6 March On Freddie (w)

Heat 5

1 Singalong Dolly

2 Da Bold Falcon

3 Thats It Jack

4 Hot Wood (m)

5 Dynamic Force (w)

6 Ballinabola Jim (w)

Heat 6

1 Kapuka Warrior

2 Ballyhimkin Leo

3 Callaway Knegare

4 Short Grip (m)

5 Robbies Galaxy (w)

6 Bombay Pat (w)

Heat 7

1 Toolmaker Curio

2 Hawkfield Blue

3 House Martin

4 Mustang Fever (m)

5 Blackeyed Turbo (m)

6 Cheap Sandwiches (w)

Heat 8

1 Beanos Podge

2 Whyaye Bonnylad

3 Cheque For Cash

4 Dashing Toro (m)

5 Undulation (m)

6 Boylesports Bob (w)

******

PLENTY OF MOVERS IN BOYLESPORTS DERBY MARKET

There were some real movers in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby market over the weekend with the sponsors cutting Bockos Diamond to 5-2 for outright glory.

It’s hardly a shock given the fact that he produced one of the greatest performances ever seen at Shelbourne Park.

March On Freddie and Bombay Pat both won but were actually pushed out in price. March On Freddie is now 8-1 from 6-1, while Bombay Pat is now 10-1. Of those cut in price, Ballinabola Jim is now just 14-1 after his exceptional Saturday night display, while Tuono Charlie is available at the same mark after his incredible run behind Bockos Diamond.

Others cut in price include impressive second round winners Cheap Sandwiches, Scooby Pacemaker and Bubbly Shadow. Cheap Sandwiches is now just 14-1, while Scooby Pacemaker is 20-1. Bubbly Shadow is now 25-1.

De Lahdedah also solidified his position in the market with a superb front running display on Saturday night and is now just 10-1. Others riding high in the market include Boylesports Bob, Seven Beach and Callaway Knegare at 16-1. The full updated market can be seen below. Of course there is room for movement subject to Tuesday morning’s third round trap draw.

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

Boylesports bet:

5-2                  Bockos Diamond
8                      March On Freddie
10                  Bombay Pat
10                   De Lahdedah
14                   Cheap Sandwiches
14                  Tuono Charlie
14                   Ballinabola Jim
16                  BoyleSports Bob
16                   Seven Beach
16                   Callaway Knegare
20                   Scooby Pacemaker
20                   Da Bold Falcon
25                  Carrick Aldo
25                  Tarsna Maasai
25                  Bubbly Shadow
33                   Robbies Galaxy
33                  Undulation
33                   House Martin
33                  A Lucky Julie
33                   Dynamic Force
33                   Untold Dollar
33                   Singalong Dolly
40                   Dashing Toro
40                  Grangeclare Lady
40                   Superfast Gorden
40                  Cheque For Cash
40                   Short Grip
40                  Beanos Podge
40                  Deadly Choice
50                  Ballymac  Briar
50                   Glengar Martha
50                   Hawkfield Blue
50                  Kapuka Warrior
50                  Down To Business
66                  Arthur Cornflake
66                  Extra Gain
66                   Mustang Fever
66                   Thats It Jack
66                   Randolph Scotts
100                 Ballyhimikin Leo
100                 Toolmaker Curio
100                 Hot Wood
100                 Fairy Footsteps
100                 Blackeyed Turbo
100                 Is She There
100                 Southwood Stan
100                 Whyaye Bonnylad
100                 Clonfert Annie
100                 Denos Bay

******

BOCKOS TOPS AN ILLUSTRIOUS ALL-TIME LIST TO THE THIRD TURN

The sensational performance of Bockos Diamond on Friday night in the second round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby got us thinking once again about the best third bend clocks ever record at Shelbourne Park.

Of course, this is very much a modern phenomenon given the clock was only introduced in recent years but, given the way the track has sped up, it seems safe to suggest no greyhound ever went faster before its introduction.  

Over the past four years, we have seen some of the sharpest and fastest greyhounds to ever grace Shelbourne Park and the list of top ten third bend sectionals is a who’s who of Irish greyhound racing royalty.   

Prior to Friday, the fastest time posted to the third turn came from 2020 Derby champion Newinn Taylor. In the third round of that year’s classic, the brilliant tracker clocked 16.79 off the back of a 3.32 sectional.

To highlight just how fast Newinn Taylor was, he also recorded 16.80 in the semi-finals of that same Derby. Coolavanny Hoffa matched that mark in the second round of the Derby in 2022, clocking 16.80 off a 3.38 sectional.

And what of the rest on the list. Pestana is the fastest greyhound to ever cover 550yds at HQ, smashing the track record in the second round of the 2022 Derby. In his sensational 28.99 track record breaking run, he posted 16.83 to the third turn.

The only entry on the list to come outside of the Derby is Tribal Syd. In August of this year, the Tipperary Cup champ absolutely flew in an open 550yd contest recording 16.83 after a 3.40 opening sectional.

Below Tribal Syd on the list are two Derby champions. The Other Kobe has a best third bend sectional of 16.85, which he recorded in the 2023 Derby decider, while the brilliant Susie Sapphire recorded 16.88 in the 2021 final. Ballymac Ariel also makes the list after recording 16.88 in the third round of the 2021 Derby.

It truly is an illustrious list and the fact that Bockos Diamond tops the table is an indication of his incredible ability. He actually makes the list twice, along with Newinn Taylor and The Other Kobe, which is even more remarkable. Can he add his name to the list again in the coming weeks? I certainly wouldn’t bet against it.  

The Fastest of the Fastest The Top 10 third bend sectionals for 550yds at Shelbourne Park
	Greyhound	When?	Clock
1	Bockos Diamond	Derby – 2nd Round 2024	16.68
2	Newinn Taylor	Derby – 3rd Round 2020	16.79
=3	Newinn Taylor	Derby – Semi-finals 2020	16.80
=3	Coolavanny Hoffa	Derby – 2nd Round 2022	16.80
5	Pestana (Track record)	Derby – 2nd Round 2022	16.83
6	Tribal Syd	Open 550 – August 2024	16.83
=7	The Other Kobe	Derby – Final 2023	16.85
=7	Bockos Diamond	Derby – 1st Round 2024	16.85
=9	Susie Sapphire	Derby – Final 2021	16.88
=9	Ballymac Ariel	Derby – 3rd Round 2021	16.88
=9	The Other Kobe	Derby – Quarter-finals 2023	16.88

******

DIAMOND TOPS THE CHARTS AGAIN

Given the fact we highlighted that Bockos Diamond posted the fastest time ever recorded to the third turn since the introduction of the third bend sectional, it’s no surprise to see him topping the table to that point in the second round.

After recording a sizzling 16.85 in the opening round, he would go even faster with a scarcely believable 16.68 on Friday night, some twenty five spots faster than the next fastest, Grangeclare Lady. The latter, who is a daughter oft former Derby champion Susie Sapphire, was razor-sharp in her Friday night assignment, clocking 16.93.

Cheap Sandwiches was thoroughly professional in the final heat of the round, hitting the third turn in 16.95, while Seven Beach and Ballinabola Jim were both very impressive as they posted 16.96. the only other greyhound to break the magical 17 second barrier was Bubbly Shadow.

Incidentally, of all those to break 17 seconds, he did so off the slowest opening sectional. He recorded 3.43 making his 16.98 third bend sectional even more impressive.   

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
Bockos Diamond (F)	16.85	16.68
Grangeclare Lady (F)	17.19	16.93
Cheap Sandwiches		16.95
Seven Beach (F)	17.09	16.96
Ballinabola Jim	17.22	16.96
Bubbly Shadow		16.98
Bombay Pat (F)	16.93	17.03
De Lahdedah		17.03
Cheque For Cash (F)		17.08
Whyaye Bonnylad		17.11
Droopys Metaphor (F)		17.19
Scooby Pacemaker		17.19
Kapuka Warrior (F)	17.12	17.22
Robbies Galaxy		17.35
Glitzy Magic (F)		17.72
Denos Bay		n/a
Carrick Aldo	16.92
Tribal Syd	17.00
Tarsna Maasai	17.03
Short Grip	17.04
March On Freddie	17.08
Clona Duke	17.12
Singalong Dolly	17.16
Knockeen Dazzler	17.17
Glengar Martha	17.19
Dynamic Force	17.20
Breaghmore Dice	17.27
Down To Business	17.27
Ballymac Danica	17.30
Deelish Nora	17.32
Jaytee Craze	17.35
Tinahue Pappone	17.38
Quarry Boy	17.40
In Good Time	17.44
Born To Perform	17.54
Ballyhimikin Leo	17.64

 

******

BIG JIM STARS AS SECOND ROUND OF DERBY CONCLUD

On a night of brilliant performances in the concluding second round heats of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, the headlines went to Ballinabola Jim as he posted one of the fastest times ever recorded for the 550yd trip at Shelbourne Park.

Big Jim was simply outstanding as he shot from the outside box to dominate in a 29.07 success. Next fastest was Scooby Pacemaker as he found his trapping boots to record a superb 29.16, while Cheap Sandwiches, Bubbly Shadow and De Lahdedah also went fast. Below is our heat by heat guide to the evening’ Derby action.

Heat by heat guide to Saturday’s Derby heats:

Heat 9 – DE LAHDEDAH IS BACK

De Lahdedah may have suffered an odds-on defeat in the opening round but those that stayed loyal to the exceptionally talented English Derby champion were rewarded in Heat 9 as he produced a brilliant effort, flashing from the inside box to dominate throughout.

This was over as a contest from the opening stride. The Liam Dowling trained son of Lenson Bocko and Ballymac Sarahjo quickly asserted to hold a comfortable lead into the back straight while his rivals raced in racecard order in behind.

Bartlemy Cop initially gave chase but he was headed by the big finisher, Extra Gain at the third turn. While Extra Gain certainly stayed on well, he was never going to worry De Lahdedah, owned by the Garsuns Syndicate, who raced on to a superb two and a half length victory in 29.30. Clonfert Annie ran on well to take third in the closing strides a further three lengths adrift.

Heat 10 – PODGE HAVE A BEANO

Beanos Podge may have been having just his eighth career start but he looked a seasoned campaigner in Heat 10 as he led home Singalong Dolly to give his handler Pat Buckley a terrific one-two.

Whyaye Bonnylad took them along after a flying start from two but Beanos Podge appreciated his rails pitch and turned a close second.

It was down the back straight that Beanos Podge displayed his track craft. He initially looked to go on the outside of Whyaye Bonnylad but when the leader began to drift off the fence, he quickly changed his mind and shot up the inner into the third turn.

It would prove decisive. Moving with real fluency to the front, Adrian Mannix’ son of Vulturi and Seomra Oreo drove clear to win by three lengths in 29.42. Singalong Dolly ran on well to take second with Whyaye Bonnylad a half length back in third. 

Heat 11 – GALAXY NOT THAT FAR, FAR AWAY

Robbies Galaxy (Pestana/ Shinawill) arrived late and come out on top in one of the best and tightest finishes of the Derby thus far in Heat 11.

One of the real eye-catchers of the opening round, he certainly had to work hard to eventually reel in Superfast Gorden, while also containing the ever-persistent Southwood Stan.

This really was a terrific contest with favourite backers making themselves heard when Superfast Gorden turned a close second to Southwood Stan before making his move into the third turn. Robbies Galaxy was never far away, however. The pair moved onto the flanks of Southwood Stan with Superfast Gorden getting first run up the inner. Going to the front, the favourite seemed certain to score but Shea Campbell’s Robbies Galaxy is immensely strong and he continued to advance with real menace.

Meanwhile, Southwood Stan also began to rally. It really was an incredible finish but Robbies Galaxy got up in the final half stride to deny Superfast Gorden and Southwood Stand by two short heads in 29.66.

Heat 12 – BOMBAY PAT OBLIGES AGAIN

Pat Muldoon and Bayliss Gee’s Bombay Pat was the hottest favourite of the night in Heat 12 and duly obliged, again showing fine early speed after a slightly tardy start but he did have to work harder than eight days earlier.

Down To Business broke best and led in the opening yards but he couldn’t hold the Graham Holland trained Bombay Pat.

He did make it interesting, however. Bombay Pat eventually got loose just as they hit the second turn and started to move through the gears down the back straight to put the result beyond doubt by halfway.

Three lengths clear at halfway, he continued to pile on the pressure to halfway. The son of Pestana and Clar Mountain was four lengths to the good by the third turn and he proceeded to coast home the most straightforward four length winner in 29.41. Down To Business was second with Blackeyed Turbo running on strongly to grab third, some three lengths further adrift.  

Heat 13 – BIG JIM RUNS RIOT

Ballinabola Jim is building quite a fan club at present and it doesn’t come as a surprise.

The Brendan Murphy trained powerhouse, who has earned the moniker ‘Big Jim’ due to his 90lb frame, is on a run of six straight wins after what was, without doubt, a career best display in Heat 13.

This was simply sensational from the thoroughly likeable son of Good News and Ballinabola Rum. Despite his size, he shot from the outside box to assert from the very first stride. Posting a 3.38 sectional, he left his rivals with absolutely no chance of getting back on terms.

The warm favourite was Juvenile Derby champ Callaway Knegare but he moved right from trap two and immediately found himself struggling for room. In fact, he ran a big race to come through for second but the stage belonged to the Murphy Ballinabola Syndicate owned Ballinabola Jim and he played a starring role.

Maintaining a merciless gallop to the finish, he would eventually stride on to a facile nine and a half length success in a stunning 29.07. Callaway Knegare lost nothing in defeat, showing awesome pace and power after plenty of traffic, while Mustang Fever simply had her heart broken by the pace-setter as she finished another head back in third.

Heat 14 – BUBBLY COMES OUT OF THE SHADOWS

Under his former name, Merits Inclusion, Bubbly Shadow ran up the Kirby Memorial around Limerick.

He has always been very talented but his winning run in Heat 14 was evidence that he has taken the next step.

Is She There broke fastest from four but Bubbly Shadow also came away racing and, showing wonderful acceleration, quickly asserted into the turn. In contrast, the hot favourite Boylesports Bob walked from the outside box and found bad traffic on the turn.

His Derby challenge looked set to end only for the powerful tracker to come through in the closing stages to grab third. Bubbly Shadow had no knowledge of what was going on behind, however. Showing huge back straight pace, the Champagne Club owned Bubbly Shadow increased his lead from two to five lengths into the third turn.

The Brendan Matthews trained son of Dromana Bucko and Million Dreams maintained his impressive gallop all the way to the line to see off Is She There by six lengths in a rapid 29.24. Boylesports Bob made up huge ground to take third, just a head further back.

Heat 15 – PACEMAKER LIVES UP TO HIS NAME

Scooby Pacemaker was sent of a 16-1 chance to win Heat 15 but not only did he win but he produced one of the most stunning displays of the Derby thus far.

A change of seeding saw him line out as a middle seed and he seemed to break far faster from a trap five draw.

Despite edging inwards into the turn, squeezing up those on his inner, before turning in front. It was a race-winning maneouvre from the son of Droopy Sydney and Scooby Princess but still better was to come.

Arthur Cornflake rode a bump on the turn to slip around in second, while Deadly Choice was third and looking a huge danger. Deadly Choice flew down the back straight to go second into the third turn. Scooby Pacemaker looked a sitting duck but he was to maintain a relentless gallop to the finish. 

Staying on strongly, the Jennifer O’Donnell trained Scooby Pacemaker would hold his fast-finishing rival by three lengths in a sizzling 29.16. The winner came home in an incredible 11.97, comfortably holding one of the strongest greyhounds in training.

The real drama was happening in behind, however. Dashing Toro ran on strongly to join Arthur Cornflake on the line with the pair dead-heating for third. It would lead to the third-round draw being postponed (see separate story).   

Heat 16 – CHEAP READS THE BRIEF

As an odds-on favourite in a four-dog contest, it was clear the Graham Holland trained Cheap Sandwiches (Burgess Bucks/ Hearthill Josie) read the brief as he did exactly what was expected of him.

Breaking smartly from the outside box before charging clear to make every inch in a comfortable and most impressive success in 29.20.

Hot Wood gave chase in second, while Ballymac Briar was third throughout. At the finish, the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate owned Cheap Sandwiches had four lengths in hand on Hot Wood with Ballymac Briar another six lengths adrift.

Undercard

CAILIN LOOKS A REAL PROSPECT

Pennys Cailin won the finale in the manner of a bitch with a big future, perhaps over further.

The Rosemary Price trained daughter of Droopy Sydney and Ballycowen Lucy hit the back straight in third behind pace-setter Ballymac Eli and Darbys Dancer but quickly moved second.

She still had work to do as they hit the third turn but finished with real purpose getting up inside the final fifty yards to win by two lengths in a rapid 28.28. Going clear into the escape, it’s evident she will stay further and is certainly one to keep onside.  

SIR TAKES HIS CHANCE

Racing commenced with an A1 550 and Cheque For Sir (Droopys Sydney/ Yahoo Ava) added to his already impressive tally with a slightly fortuitous success.

Only third into the back straight, he was left in front as Corduff Mystery clipped the heels of the pace-setting Kilgraney Bolger.

Once in front, Cheque For Sir quickly opened up a race-winning lead before emerging a comfortable seven length winner over Kilgraney Bolger for Karol Ramsbottom and the Cash Back Syndicate in 29.84.

A WILD DISPLAY FROM MONGYS

Kieran Murphy’s Mongys Wild displayed all sorts of pace to win the second race on the card despite missing the start.

Last into the turn, he charged into a challenging position by the third turn before striking the front on the run in. Despite taking a bump off the final turn, the Graham Holland trained son of Roxholme Olaf and Banter Breeze saw off Amidus Hannah by a length in 28.79.

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MORE EXCEPTIONAL RUNS EXPECTED AS DERBY CONTINUES

While it may be a bit much to expect one of tonight’s competitors in the concluding session of second round heats in the Boylesports Derby to match the Friday night exploits of Bockos Diamond, it would also be brash to rule out the possibility such is the quality of the greyhounds on show at Shelbourne Park this evening. 

The likes of Bombay Pat, Boylesports Bob, De Lahdedah, Callaway Knegare and Cheap Sandwiches will attempt to justify their lofty position in the outright market and the resulting action will be right out of the top drawer. Below is our heat by heat guide to tonight’s action.

Heat by heat guide to tonight’s Derby action: 

Heat 9 – LAHDEDAH TO RETURN TO WINNING WAYS

Odds-on punters had their fingers burnt by De Lahdedah in the opening round, suffering a defeat at odds of 1-5.

He won’t be that short in Heat 9 but he also won’t be shy of support despite his latest reversal.

The brilliant son of Lenson Bocko has yet to win a race since capturing the English Derby at Towcester in late June but he can put that right in his third outing since his return. In a race that isn’t packed with early speed, Kirby Memorial champion Knockeen Dazzler looks a certain pace-setter but he could find himself under severe pressure if De Lahdedah happens to turn close.

That seems a distinct possibility and Liam Dowling’s star is chosen to come through in the second half of the contest to beat Knockeen Dazzler with big finishers Extra Gain and Ryhope Beach set to battle it out for third spot.

Clonfert Annie won well in the opening round but faces a tougher test on this occasion. If she is to make the frame she needs a flying start, while Bartlemy Cop must produce a flying start to figure.

Heat 10 – DOLLY CAN SING THE RIGHT TUNE

Heat 10 is not an easy contest to predict a likely winner. Carmac King will likely start favourite but he has been lightly raced since in Leger exit in early August and hasn’t won a race since late July.

He displayed encouraging signs behind Bockos Diamond last week but needs to take another step forward in Heat 10 where he faces impressive opening round scorer Singalong Dolly.

The latter only came in as a reserve last week but is proven at the very highest level as a Puppy Oaks and Cesarewitch winner. She shot from traps last week to make every inch in a fast 29.39. A repeat of that form would see her make a bold bid, potentially from the front.

The presence of Whyaye Bonnylad on her immediate inside is a slight concern but Singalong Dolly is certainly not put off by the cut and thrust of racing and could come from behind that rival if necessary. Beanos Podge, Farney Chime and Fahy Hazel complete the line up. Farey Chime and Fahy Hazel are exposed and need to find plenty to come home in front. In contrast, Beanos Podge is progressive and is potentially the best of the remainder.

Singalong Dolly gets the nod on the strength of her latest victory but Carmac King should be shown plenty of respect. So too must Whyaye Bonnylad although he needs to turn in front to worry the judge here.

Heat 11 – ROBBIE TO TEST GORDEN

Both Superfast Gorden and Robbies Galaxy suffered defeat in the opening round but both caught the eye of many keen observers.

Superfast Gorden came in for strong support last week but found himself hemmed in on more than one occasion. He finished his race off well and seems more likely to get a clear run this evening.

Robbies Galaxy was badly baulked at the turn in his opening round assignment but flew from the second turn to qualify in third. He too will have plenty of support this evening and, at their respective prices, he makes more appeal that Superfast Gorden, who is possibly the most likely winner.

Of the remainder, Southwood Stan has a kind draw and could race prominently, while Born To Perform is long overdue a victory. She has been reseeded as a middle seed and can get involved from trap four, although will need a flying start. Prince Naseem and Benalmadena Puma are both strong but can they turn close enough?

Heat 12 – BOMBAY TO DOMINATE AGAIN

Bombay Pat was awesome in the opening round, continuing his sensational rise up the ranks.

He is now amongst the fastest greyhounds on the planet and in the top three in the Derby betting. He puts his credentials on the line in Heat 12 and is fully expected to pass his latest test with flying colours.

The brilliant son of Pestana has incredible early speed and, from a kind draw in the stripes, is expected to swoop to the front well before the corner. In truth, Bombay Pat is perhaps the only serious threat to himself.

If he doesn’t make a mess of the start, he should emerge a comfortable scorer. Of those in opposition, each of the remaining five runners have claims of making the frame. Breaghmore Dice, Deelish Nora and Down To Business all won their opening round assignments and are capable of making the frame, while Bonkersinyonkers and Blackeyed Turbo have plenty of pace and can’t be dismissed either.

Bombay Pat is set to emerge an easy winner but the battle for second and third could go right down to the wire.

Heat 13 – KNEGARE READY TO SHINE

Juvenile Derby champion Callaway Knegare has suffered two defeats in his last two starts.

That’s as many as he suffered in his eight previous outings. Tonight, he can return to winning ways in Heat 13 where Ballinabola Jim and Mustang Fever can offer the greatest resistance.     

There isn’t much early speed around Calaway Knegare which should allow him to turn much closer to the pace than in his last two starts. The in-form Ballinabola Jim and Mustang Fever are likely to go up well on the outside of the track but if Callaway Knegare encounters a clean passage on the inside of the track he may have too much ammunition for his rivals.

Dromana Dano rarely runs a bad race around Shelbourne Park and could potentially race prominently from four but his presence might actually work in the favourite of Callaway Knegare. Were Dromana Dano to go up fast from four, he could potentially hold up Mustang Fever and Ballinabola Jim. That could allow Callaway Knegare to turn very close to the pace, which is not good news for his rivals.   

Heat 14 – BRILLIANT BOB TO FOLLOW UP

English Derby runner-up Boylesports Bob has returned from a summer break in exceptional form.

In fact, he looks better than ever after two stunning displays, including his latest 29.25 return. A week on, the Paul Hennessy trained powerhouse will be a red-hot favourite for Heat 14.

Obviously talented rivals like Faypoint Harvey and Bubbly Shadow are greatly respected but Boylesports Bob has a huge engine and the draw to make the most of it. With a clear passage on the outside of the track, he could prove very difficult to contain.

Bubbly Shadow has a kind draw in three and is likely to go up well but he may need to open a clear advantage to emerge on top. Faypoint Harvey is also well drawn on the fence and can never be ignored but he must reproduce his very best career form to lower the colours of the favourite.

The field is completed by three talented ladies. Is She There, Hawkfield Abbie and Droopys Avatar are all capable of a big run on their night and will attempt to snatch one of the qualifying spots.

Heat 15 – CHANCE TORO IN A WIDE-OPEN AFFAIR

Heat 15 is without doubt one of the most open, if not the most open, contests of the round.

Realistic claims can be made for each of the runners including the likely favourite Ower Cracker. The latter is drawn on the fence, although he may edge off.

Should he produce a fast start, he could quickly emerge as the one to beat but he isn’t blessed with exceptional early dash and were he to miss the beat, he could quickly find himself in need of some racing room.

De Foxy Devil and Scooby Pacemaker have plenty of pace but need to show fluency at traps to get involved, while UK raider Arthur Cornflake has plenty of power and will bid to come from off the pace to score. The same can be said for Deadly Choice. He walked out last week before finishing at speed. 

That leaves just Dashing Toro. He arguably has the best form in the book as the track record holder for 550yds at Tralee. If he were to come away on terms, he pace and power could make the difference and, at a generous price, he could be the one to side with.

Heat 16 – SANDWICHES THE ONE TO BEAT

With only four going to traps in the final heat following the withdrawal of both Ballymac Danica during the week and Helo Diego first thing this morning, Cheap Sandwiches is set to start one of the hottest favourites of the round from an ideal draw in the stripes.

Of course, he was in the wars in the opening round but has been in exceptional form and looks the part from a wide draw. Of his rivals, Ballymac Briar is the one potential spanner in the works. He ran a far better race than the bare form suggests last week and is capable of going up fast from an inside draw. He is seen as the greatest threat to the favourite, although Castleivy Ginge also displayed signs of a return to her very best last week, while Hot Wood has some fine form on his card also.

One suspects the market will be correct, however. Cheap Sandwiches is chosen to make all at the expense of Ballymac Briar.

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AWESOME DIAMOND SETS DERBY ALIGHT WITH INCREDIBLE RUN

As brilliant as the opening round of the Boylesports Derby was, the classic really came to life on Friday night as the second round got underway.

There were a number of hugely competitive contests but the undoubted star was Bockos Diamond as he left the greyhound world in awe with a sensational display of early speed to justify his position as the hottest ante-post favourite in many years.

A heat by heat guide to last night’s action:

Heat 1 – JUDGE CAN’T SEPARATE WARRIOR AND CURIO

The opening heat of the second round provided the closest finish of the Derby thus far with nothing separating the first two, Kapuka Warrior and Toolmaker Curio, while only two and a half lengths separated the entire field.

Right from the start this was a competitive affair with Magical Sapphire going up fastest only to be joined on the turn by the Karol Ramsbottom trained Kapuka Warrior. The latter moved on and looked set to justify favouritism but Willie Hyslop’s Toolmaker Curio had other ideas.

The latter charged into the third turn to slip up the inside of Matt Dunne’s Kapuka Warrior, setting up an epic finish. As they battled for the lead, Syd Zafiro and Thats It Jack drew closer. The Robert Gleeson trained Toolmaker Curio turned for home with a narrow advantage but Kapuka Warrior rallied. Still the remainder of the field closed but the front two held on in 29.88.

The judge was called into action and he declared that the front two couldn’t be separated. A dead-heat the result between Kapuka Warrior and Toolmaker Curio with Thats It Jack finishing fast to grab third, just a half length further back.

Heat 2 – FOOTSTEPS WITH A FAIRY TALE FINISH

Fairy Footsteps may have been a very big price to win Heat 2 but she certainly deserved her moment after recovering from early traffic with an impressive burst of pace to lead into the third turn.

This was another competitive affair with many of the field vying for a position into and around the opening bend.

In the end, Glitzy Magic held a narrow advantage into the turn, although he was struggling to get a clean run at the turn with Dark Dilemma and Ballymac Finn all within a half length on his inner, while the hot favourite Dynamic Force recovered from a slow start to sit on his shoulder. Fairy Footsteps was crammed somewhere in the middle with Randolph Scotts just behind in last.

Something had to give. Somehow, after plenty of crowding, Glitzy Magic recovered quickest to lead the field into the back straight but Randolph Scotts was now on his tail and challenging. The latter had to check, however, allowing Ballymac Finn to challenge on their outside.

At halfway the result was still very much in the balance. Dynamic Force began to charge into the third turn but so too did Fairy Footsteps. After finding a seam up the inner, Fairy Footsteps carried real momentum into the third turn to take up the lead. Dynamic Force and Randolph Scotts both moved forward also to emerge as the main dangers.

It was now in the hands of Fairy Footsteps and she didn’t disappoint her lucky owners Keith Allsop and Willie Rigney. The Pat Guilfoyle trained daughter of Droopys Sydney and Enable went on to contain Randolph Scotts and Dynamic Force by a length and a short head in 30.26. 

Heat 3 – FREDDIE CONTINUES HIS MARCH INTO NOVEMBER

March On Freddie will be in action at Shelbourne Park next month after following up his sizzling opening round effort with a very different type of victory in Heat 3.

Headed early on this occasion, the UK raider displayed all his strength and track craft to come out on top despite the best efforts of the long-time leader Droopys Metaphor, Ballyhimkin Leo and House Martin.

Droopys Metaphor displayed huge early speed to build a comfortable lead into the turn, chased by House Martin with March On Freddie next. While he could turn only third, it was clear as early as the second bend that March On Freddie was the one to beat.

Predictably, he began to close rapidly on the leaders into the third turn and switching to the inside made his move. Powering through the gap, he quickly put the result beyond doubt. Ballyhimikin Leo made a forward move to go second between the last two bends but March On Freddie was loose and easing clear.

March On Freddie eased on to win by two lengths for George Watson and Dave Mullins in 29.53. Ballyhimkin Leo was second with House Martin shaking off the close attentions of the subsequently disqualified Droopys Metaphor to finish third a further five lengths adrift.

Heat 4 – A BOLD DISPLAY BY FALCON

The writing was on the wall pretty early in Heat 4 with Da Bold Falcon managing to turn third behind Cheque For Cash and Untold Dollar.

Cheque For cash set a very strong gallop at the head of affairs with Untold Dollar again forced to recover from a moderate start to slip around in second.

The pair had a good buckle into the third turn with Untold Dollar closing to attempt a move up the inside but for the third time in three runs he was forced to check at this point. In a matter of strides, Da Bold Falcon was through the gap and closing on Cheque For Cash.

In a tremendous finish, Da Bold Falcon flew up the straight to collar Cheque For Cash. Trained by Ginger McGee for Pat McDonagh, the brilliant son of Droopys Sydney and Hail Cleopatra took the verdict by a neck in 29.39. Untold Dollar was another two lengths back in third.

Heat 5 – LADY FOLLOWING IN SUSIES FOOTSTEPS

Grangeclare Lady may not reach the same incredible heights as her dam Susie Sapphire, but she looked a chip off the old block in Heat 5, displaying superb early speed to make virtually all despite the best efforts of Glengar Matha and Hawkfield Blue.

This was a contest where the early advantage was always going to make a significant difference and peter Comerford’s Grangeclare Lady flew into the bend from trap four to just clear Clona Duke to turn in front. It was the decisive moment in the contest.

Both Clona Duke and Glengar Martha gave chase into the third turn but Grangeclare Lady never gave an inch. With her two nearest pursuers lightly raced in recent months, there was a chance they would blow up enough for Grangeclare lady to hold on and that’s precisely what happened.

Clona Duke began to tire as they turned for home while Glengar Martha drifted wide into the straight to hand the Owen McKenna trained Grangeclare lady the extra room she needed.

Hawkfield Blue finished well to actually clip the heels of Grangeclare Lady in the closing yards but she held on to beat Glengar Martha by a neck in 29.43. Hawkfield Blue ran a big race to finish just a head away in third.  

Heat 6 – BEACH REMAINS UNBEATEN IN DERBY

Seven Beach faced a stiff test in Heat 6 but he came through it with flying colours, showing superb trapping ability and terrific early speed to better Short Grip and hold Tarsna Maasai into the bend.

Once turning in front, it was game over for his pursuers.

Tarsna Maasai did turn a close second but he is very similar to Seven Beach in terms of racing style and was never going to be able to reel in the pace-setter. The pair displayed their class down the back straight, racing away from the chasing pack but Seven Beach remained in control.

Posting a rapid 16.96 to the third turn, the Jennifer O’Donnell trained Seven Beach maintained a comfortable advantage all the way to the line to eventually see off the talented Tarsna Maasai by two lengths in a rapid 29.37. Short Grip clung on for third, some five and a half lengths adrift.  

Heat 7 – DIAMOND GOES NUCLEAR

Bockos Diamond looked like he was from another planet in Heat 7, showing freakish early speed to leave his rivals standing to the third turn.

In victory he posted 16.68 to the third turn, the fastest time ever recorded to that point since the introduction of the infield clock, before going on to win in 29.03, which has only ever been bettered by Pestana.

Remarkably, the Graham Holland trained son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow only won by a length and a half with Tuono Charlie running an incredible race in second, while Carrick Aldo did little wrong in third.

In fact, such was the quality of this contest that Carrick Aldo clocked 29.38 which would have been good enough to win all but one of the remaining heats on the night.

However, this was all about Bockos Diamond. Breaking fastest from six, he flew into the turn to open a clear advantage over Carrick Aldo. Tuono Charlie turned third but was a long way behind the leader at halfway.

It’s hardly a shock given how fast Bockos Diamond was going. Hitting the third turn almost five lengths clear he was never going to be picked up but Tuono Charlie, who was still third at the time began to fly. Bockos Diamond would go on to win by a length and a half from the flying Tuono Charlie with Carrick Aldo also running a big race just three and a half lengths further back. It was a sensational run by the winner, a magnificent display of power from the runner-up and a fine run in third by Carrick Aldo. All three can certainly hold their head up high.

Heat 8 – JULIE LEADS HOME A ONE-TWO FOR JERRY

Hall of Fame handler Jerry Melia ended the night in style sending home a tremendous one-two with his Oaks champion A Lucky Julie picking up her litter brother Denos Bay for a superb victory in 29.54.

Tribal Syd was a warm favourite and expected to set the pace but he missed the start and found himself short of room in the early yards. In contrast, Denos Bay went up fast from trap three. Tribal Syd did work his way into second spot but it was the two flying females, A Lucky Julie and Undulation that were to end his Derby challenge.

Both bitches began to roll down the back straight after turning fifth and sixth. A Lucky Julie had the outside of the track to herself, while Undulation attempted to go between runners. By the third turn, A Lucky Julie was third and she drove the corner to cut off both Undulation and Droopys Carbine.

This was a crucial point in the contest. She quickly slipped into inside Tribal Syd before cutting down her litter brother on the run in. A Lucky Julie would go on to win by a length in 29.54, while Undulation recovered remarkably well to finish just a length further back in third.

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HELLO DIEGO MISSES DERBY DATE

Sadly, Hello Diego has been withdrawn from Heat 16 of the Boylesports Derby after Paul Hennessy reported he has a cut on his pad.

His absence means the final heat of the round will be a four-dog affair as Ballymac Danica was already confirmed a non-runner in the contest.

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DIAMOND AND FREDDIE TO SHINE AS BOYLESPORTS DERBY CONTINUES

There’s a greater sense of jeopardy about tonight and tomorrow night’s action in the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby with less room for error.

With only three to progress from each of the sixteen second round heats, any mistakes could prove the end of a Derby challenge.

Tonight’s card at Shelbourne Park is dominated by the first session of second round heats. Litter brothers Bockos Diamond and March On Freddie sit at the head of the market for outright glory and they are both in action this evening. Below we give a full run through of the eight heats. 

A heat-by-heat guide to tonight’s Boylesports Derby action:

Heat 1 – SAPPHIRE TO SHINE

Kapuka Warrior will start favourite in the opening heat and is expected to make a bold bid for his many backers but, at the respective prices, Magical Sapphire makes more appeal.

Both won their opening round assignments with the latter digging deep to see off some notable rivals.

She may have only recorded 29.91 but is capable of going far faster. With the rails-seeking Syd Zafiro, who can’t be dismissed, drawn in four, Magical Sapphire will have room to race in the early yards and she can turn close to the pace.

Kapuka Warrior is certain to up fast on the inside and is a likely pace-setter but he could be vulnerable from the third turn. Magical Sapphire is chosen to power her way to the front in the latter stages. Kapuka Warrior is the main threat, while Syd Zafiro and the strong running Thats It Jack are also capable of making the frame.

Heat 2 – FORCE TO FOLLOW UP

Dynamic Force made a successful return to Shelbourne Park last week, running a tremendous corner to hit the front by the time they entered the back straight.

From a kinder draw in the stripes, the Paul Hennessy trained star is expected to come forward for last week’s run and is a deserving hot favourite.

If he does come away on terms, he can assert before the second turn. That’s not to say he faces a straight-forward task. Ballymac Finn, Randolph Scotts and Dark Dilemma will each have their supporters, while Glitzy Magic ran very well in defeat last week. But in terms of a value alternative, Fairy Footsteps is nominated as the main threat. She ran well in defeat last week and is capable of a flying start. If she does find her trapping boots, the 16-1 on offer in places would love overly generous.

Heat 3 – FANTASTIC FREDDIE CAN SHOW HIS CLASS

UK raider March On Freddie made a real splash in the opening round, dominating to post a sensational fastest of the round 29.19.

While he went up fast in that success, the most impressive element of his victory was the pace and power he displayed from the second turn.

The David Mullins trained star looks ideally housed in the stripes but a closer inspection would highlight the fact that Tivoli Milo, in five, is expected to take a step right at trap rise. March On Freddie isn’t exactly small, however. He tips the scales at 80lbs and can handle himself. Even if h does take a bump, he has the speed to turn close to the pace, which could potentially be set by Droopys Metaphor.

If avoiding bad traffic, March On Freddie can make his superior pace could from halfway and he is chosen to emerge a comfortable winner yet again. Droopys Metaphor and the well-housed House Martin are chosen to follow him home.

Heat 4 – DOLLAR TO CASH IN ON GOOD DRAW

Untold Dollar overcame traffic to win his opening round heat in 29.55.

It doesn’t seem too unreasonable to think he could go at least three lengths faster. If doing so, he would be very difficult to stop in Heat 4 where he should have the measure of those on his flanks into the turn.

Da Bold Falcon and Miami King are both strong but are unlikely to threaten Untold Dollar into the turn. Instead, Cheque For Cash, drawn on the fence, looks the main danger in the opening exchanges. He can race prominently but Untold Dollar is selected to make all.

Both the aforementioned Da Bold Falcon and the wide drawn Deadly Disco will finish at speed but Untold Dollar may be too far clear to worry.  

Heat 5 – NO ROOM FOR ERROR

Clona Duke is a deserving favourite for Heat 5 but fear of a slight bounce, allied with a tight draw on the fence and the fact that he faces some very talented rivals means we won’t be recommending him at a relatively short price.

Hawkfield Blue, Grangeclare Lady and Glengar Martha can all motor into the turn and space could be at a premium. Maireads Prince is certain to finish well and could potentially capitalise if there is any traffic amongst the early paced contingent.

In what looks a wide-open affair, Hawkfield Blue is nominated at the prices available but this is more of contest to watch than get involved in.

Heat 6 – BEACH FACES TOUGH TEST

Short Grip, Seven Beach and Tarsna Maasai could have quite a battle to the turn in Heat 6.

Throw in Produce Stakes champion Unanimouspanther, the talented Rushy Meadows and exciting Daleroad Devon and it’s quite a contest.

So much will depend on the opening exchanges. Tarsna Maasai and Seven Beach posted the two fastest sectionals of the opening round and are likely to go up fast again. So too is Short Grip, who is consistent at boxes.

She ran a fine race in defeat last week and is expected to come on for the run. Seven Beach is a deserving favourite, however. He is drawn inside Tarsna Maasai and could have the early speed to clear Short Grip. If taking the corner in front, he could be hard to stop. It’s also worth pointing out that Seven Beach has the fastest time of the year with a 29.18 return for the 550yd trip back in August.

Heat 7 – DIAMOND TO CUT LOOSE

Bockos Diamond was a stunning opening round scorer, justifying his position as the favourite for outright glory.

Posting a rapid 29.23, he displayed all the qualities needed to become a Derby champion but he will be tested this evening.

Carrick Aldo is drawn on his immediate inside and he too impressed last week, shooting clear to win in 29.42. The pair will race side by side from the outside boxes. If Carrick Aldo does come away racing, Bockos Diamond will have quite a battle into the turn.

Bockos Diamond is truly special, however. He is chosen to take charge around the opening two bends to further enhance his Derby claims. Carrick Aldo is a very obvious threat, while Tuono Charlie and Ballymac Gizmo will both be running on strongly in hope of picking up the pieces.

Heat 8 – SYD NEEDS TO BE AT HIS SHARPEST

Tribal Syd will be hoping to make every inch to justify favouritism in Heat 7 but his supporters will be conscious that any errors in the early yards could be costly.

Both Undulation and A Lucky Julie have a big engine and ran well in defeat seven days ago.

They won’t be short of support and are greatly respected. Either would be a big danger if turning close. turn close. Both flying females will finish fast, while Jaytee Craze is expected to improve on his recent winning form and is also a big player.

Droopys Carbine has a kind draw on the fence but must repeat his very best southern form, while Denos Bay will be a big price despite running well last week. An early lead could make a difference for Tribal Syd but he really does need to be at his very sharpest in this hot contest. 

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BALLYMAC DANICA WITHDRAWN FROM DERBY

Ballymac Danica was last night withdrawn from the second round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby.

Amongst the very best in training earlier in the year, she has had an interrupted campaign and, despite winning in good style last week, has clearly picked up another niggle. 

Hopefully, the brilliant daughter of Ballymac Cooper and Ballymac Arminta was will be back in action in the near future. Her withdrawal means that trap three will be vacant in the final heat (Heat 16) of the second round on Saturday night.

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DERBY HEAT PRICES MAKE FOR INTERESTING READING

Perhaps it is the time of year or maybe it is just a change in mindset, but there are definitely more choices for punters this year as regards the Boylesports Greyhound Derby.

Many of the firms seem very forward in pricing up the classic and there are plenty of options with many different opinions between the traders.

That can only be a good thing. Thankfully, our sponsors Boylesports have always been fully invested in the classic and they put up their heat prices for Friday and Saturday’ second round yesterday afternoon. As you would expect there are a number of odds-on favourites but there is also plenty of value on show with the bigger priced runners.

Hottest favourite of the round is UK raider March On Freddie in Heat 3. Given the interest from across the water and the manner of his opening round success, when posting a fastest of competition 29.19, it’s no surprise to see the brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat installed a very short price for his second-round assignment, although the 1-4 on offer does look a little tight.

Not far behind him in terms of price is Bombay Pat, who is 2-7 to win Heat 12. Certainly if he repeats anything like his latest performances, he is likely to justify those odds.

Bockos Diamond remains a clear favourite for outright glory but faces a tougher test that the aforementioned duo. He is 8-13 to make it eleven wins on the spin in Heat 7. A full list of the heat prices can be found below:  

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby

2^nd round heat prices (Prices correct at time of publishing)

Heat 1

10-11  Kapuka Warrior

8          Toolmaker Curio

8          Thats It Jack

5          Syd Zafiro

5-2      Magical Sapphire

20       Crokers Rocket 

Heat 2

6          Ballymac Finn

4          Randolph Scottss

8          Fairy Footsteps

5          Dark Dilemma

16       Glitzy Magic

4-5      Dynamic Force 

Heat 3

8          House Martin

33       Tempestade

5          Droopys Metaphor

20       Ballyhimikin Leo

12       Tivoli Milo

1-4      March On Freddie

Heat 4

5-2      Cheque For Cash

3          Da Bold Falcon

11-8   Untold Dollar

8          Miami King

16       Up Front Magic

8          Deadly Disco 

Heat 5

7-4      Clona Duke

7-2      Hawkfield Blue

8          Clona Stand

5          Grangeclare Lady

7-2      Glengar Martha

6          Maireads Prince 

Heat 6

8          Rushy Meadows

14       Daleroad Devon

5          Unanimouspanther

10-3   Short Grip

11-8   Seven Beach

3          Tarsna Maasai 

Heat 7

6          Tuono Charlie

16       Scooby The Boss

10       Ballymac Gizmo

8          In Good Time

7-2      Carrick Aldo

8-13   Bockos Diamond 

Heat 8

8          Droopys Carbine

4          Jaytee Craze

25       Denos Bay

5-2      Undulation

6-4      Tribal Syd

7-2      A Lucky Julie 

Heat 9

1-2      De Lahdedah

25       Bartlemy Cop

16       Extra Gain

14       Clonfert Annie

5-2      Knockeen Dazzler

6          Ryhope Beach 

Heat 10

6          Beanos Podge

5          Whyaye Bonnylad

2          Singalong Dolly

20       Farney Chime

EVS     Carmac King

16       Fahy Hazel 

Heat 11

8          Southwood Stan

6          Prince Naseem

5-4      Superfast Gorden

7-2      Born To Perform

10       Benalmadena Puma

7-2      Robbies Galaxy 

Heat 12

10       Breaghmore Dice

8          Deelish Nora

14       Bonkersinyonkers

8          Down To Business

12       Blackeyed Turbo

2-7      Bombay Pat 

Heat 13

25       Newport Pier

4-7      Callaway Knegare

16       Quarry Boy

20       Dromana Dano

4          Mustang Fever

3          Ballinabola Jim 

Heat 14

5          Faypoint Harvey

12       Hawkfield Abbie

6          Bubbly Shadow

10       Is She There

12       Droopys Avatar

4-9      Boylesports Bob 

Heat 15

7-4      Ower Cracker

6          De Foxy Devil

6          Arthur Cornflake

7-2      Dashing Toro

8          Scooby Pacemaker

11-4   Deadly Choice 

Heat 16

6          Ballymac Briar

14       Castleivy Ginge

5-2      Ballymac Danica

8          Hello Diego

16       Hot Wood

8-11   Cheap Sandwiches

******

BOYLESPORTS UPDATE DERBY SPECIALS

Boylesports were again quick off the mark with their Derby specials and after the opening round, it is no surprise there are a few changes.

The first one up is a UK trained winner. It is now just 6-1, the same price March On Freddie is for outright glory. That means you again get Arthur Cornflake thrown in as a free bonus. 

Damien Lonergan reports that there has been plenty of interest in the track record being broken. Originally a 10-1 chance, it was backed into 8- before further support saw them cut the price to 6-1. On suspects, if the record is to go, it may need to be this weekend given the fact that the big guns will find themselves in hotter company a week later.

The chances of a wide seed winning have also been reevaluated. 8-13 ahead of the opening round, it is no shock to see the price contract with so many of those carrying a wide seed coming home in front or impressing last weekend. It is now just 4-9 for a wide seed to come out on top. An inside seed winning is 7-4 while there is very little love for the middle seeds at 12-1.

Other specials include top Graham Holland trained runner, top Owen McKenna trained greyhound, top Liam Dowling trained runner, top bitch, a bitch to reach the final, a bitch to win the final and more. A full list can be seen below:

Boylesports Derby Specials

UK Trained Winner

6-1

A Bitch To Reach The Derby Final

8-11

Top Liam Dowling Trained Runner

4-6      De Lahdedah

5-2      Ballymac Danica

4          Ballymac Gizmo

10       Ballymac Briar

14       Ballymac Finn

Top Graham Holland Trained Runner

4-5      Bockos Diamond

9-4      Bombay Pat

5          Cheap Sandwiches

7          Untold Dollar

10       Clona Duke

25       Faypoint Harvey

66       Tempestade

Top Owen McKenna Trained Runner

1-4      Callaway Knegare

4          Carmac King

8          Grangeclare Lady

Top Bitch

5          Undulation

6          A Lucky Julie

6          Ballymac Danica

6          Short Grip

6          Singalong Dolly

10       Glengar Martha

12       Mustang Fever

12       Deelish Nora

12       Magical Sapphire

14       Grangeclare Lady

14       Born To Perform

16       Rushy Meadows

20       Is She There

25       Blackeyed Turbo

25       Hawkfield Abbie

25       Droopys Avatar

33       Clonfert Annie

33       Castleivy Ginge

33       Newport Pier

33       Fairy Footsteps

40       Fahy Hazel 

A Bitch To Win The Derby

4-1      Yes 

Winning Seed

4-9      Wide

7-4      Rails

12       Middle

Track Record To Be Broken During The Derby?

6 -1

******

CHANGES AT TOP OF DERBY MARKET

Bockos Diamond remains at the head of the betting for the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby after his stunning Friday night success but sponsors Boylesports have not been afraid to shuffle the pack after the opening round.

Bombay Pat and March On Freddie were both hugely impressive and the pair are now clear joint second favourites to land the €125,000 prize on November 23^rd. Bockos Diamond was flawless, posting 29.23 in his opening round assignment and is now just 4-1 with Boylesports to come out on top, while Bombay Pat and March On Freddie share second favouritism at 8-1.

Boylesports Bob had no right to clock 29.25 in his opening round heat when coming from off the pace to lead late and they sponsors have reacted with the Paul Hennessy trained English Derby runner-up now just 10-1.

Calaway Knegare suffered his second defeat in a row and has been pushed out to 14-1, while De Lahdedah suffered a similar fate. The English Derby champion is now available at 14-1.

Cheap Sandwiches ran a big race in defeat on Saturday and is the only other greyhounds at odds of less than 20-1 at 16-1. Carrick Aldo comes next at 20-1 after his supreme opening round display with Seven Beach, Da Bold Falcon, Untold Dollar, Knockeen Dazzler, Tarsna Maasai, Ballymac Danica and Tribal Syd at 25-1.

Boylesports bet:

4          Bockos Diamond

8          Bombay Pat

8          March On Freddie

10       Boylesports Bob

14       De Lahdedah

14       Callaway Knegare

16       Cheap Sandwiches

20       Carrick Aldo

25       Seven Beach

25       Da Bold Falcon

25       Untold Dollar

25       Knockeen Dazzler

25       Tarsna Maasai

25       Ballymac Danica

25       Tribal Syd

33       Superfast Gorden

33       Clona Duke

33       Short Grip

33       House Martin

33       Tuono Charlie

33       Dynamic Force

33       Deadly Choice

33       Carmac King

33       Undulation

40       Clona Stand

40       Hawkfield Blue

40       Ballinabola Jim

40       Cheque For Cash

40       A Lucky Julie

40       Jaytee Craze

40       Dashing Toro

40       Unanimouspanther

40       Singalong Dolly

40       Ower Cracker

50-1   bar

******

DIAMOND SHARPEST TO THIRD BEND

As has become tradition, we will take time to reflect on the third bend clocks after each round of the Boylesports Derby and the 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 goes to highlight his brilliance and why is justifiably a warm favourite to land the Derby. He woul go on to clock 29.23 to set the standard in Friday’s heats.

The two next fastest runs to the third turn came from Carrick Aldo and Bombay Pat. Both also dipped under the 17 second barrier, something that was achieved only twice through the entire 2023 Derby. Remarkably, on the first night of this year’s classic it was broke three times.

Carrick Aldo flew around, clocking 16.92 to the third turn before going on to win in 29.40, while Bombay Pat produced a truly incredible run. Despite missing the start, he flew to the front before the corner and went on to clock 16.93 to the third turn on his way to a 29.34 success. With a better start, he could potentially go as fast as 16.80.

Tribal Syd was fastest of Saturday’s competitors to the third turn, clocking a rapid 17.00. He would go on to win in 29.50.

Others to go close to the 17 second ark included Tarsna Maasai (17.03) and Short Grip (17.04). But perhaps the most talked about run on Saturday came from March On Freddie. The UK raider moved with purpose to the turn to lead the field into the back straight.

He posted a slick 17.08 to the third turn but still managed to record a fastest of the round 29.19. His clock between the third turn and the line was 12.11. That is pretty serious.  

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
Bockos Diamond (F)	16.85
Carrick Aldo (F)	16.92
Bombay Pat (F)	16.93
Tribal Syd	17.00
Tarsna Maasai (F)	17.03
Short Grip	17.04
March On Freddie	17.08
Seven Beach (F)	17.09
Kapuka Warrior (F)	17.12
Clona Duke (F)	17.12
Singalong Dolly	17.16
Knockeen Dazzler	17.17
Grangeclare Lady	17.19
Glengar Martha	17.19
Dynamic Force (F)	17.20
Ballinabola Jim	17.22
Breaghmore Dice (F)	17.27
Down To Business (F)	17.27
Ballymac Danica (F)	17.30
Deelish Nora	17.32
Jaytee Craze (F)	17.35
Tinahue Pappone (F)	17.38
Quarry Boy	17.40
In Good Time	17.44
Born To Perform	17.54
Ballyhimikin Leo	17.64

******

FLYING FREDDIE FASTEST AS DERBY DELIGHTS

Few believed Friday While the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby may be only two nights deep, it’ already obvious that this is going to be a vintage renewal of the blue riband with Saturday night’s action following the tone set twenty-four hours earlier.

Yet again, the racing was of the highest calibre, providing some outstanding displays as well as a few moments of real drama with a couple of shocks thrown in for good measure. The headlines simply had to go to March On Freddie, however.

The UK raider was magnificent as he emerged a facile winner in a sizzling fastest of the round 29.19, fully vindicating the decision of Dave Mullins and George Watson to travel across the Irish Sea. The son of Dorotas Wildcat looked right at home at Shelbourne and his presence is a real bonus for the Derby.

There were also superb performances from the likes of Boylesports Bob, Singalong Dolly, Ballinabola Jim, Tribal Syd and Untold Dollar with each making it clear they could yet have a say in the Derby. Below is our heat-by-heat guide to the evening’s action.

Heat by Heat guide to Saturday’s action.

Heat 14 – DEELISH-OUS DISPLAY FROM NORA

John Porter’s Deelish Nora found herself with plenty of room to race in the early yards of Heat 14, the first of the night, and took full advantage, driving into the turn before just clearing the inside trio of Phoenix Memphis, Ballymac Briar and Castleivy Ginge.

Once avoiding the early traffic on the fence, the Ginger McGee trained daughter of Droopys Sydney and Ballymac Orna raced clear to hold a commanding advantage at halfway. Castleivy Ginge recovered well, powering down the back straight to close on the leader and looked a serious threat as they turned for home.

As if sensing the threat, Deelish Nora kicked again to eventually come home two lengths and two lengths clear of Castleivy Ginge and Ballymac Briar in 29.71.

Heat 15 – BOB ENDS CHARLIE’S SEQUENCE

Heat 15 was one of the finest of the entire opening round with Boylesports Bob emerging a truly brilliant winner in a very fast 29.25.

In defeat both Short Grip and Tuono Charlie ran their heart out but sadly it means the end of the latter’s incredible winning sequence that has stretched back to March.

Indeed, Tuono Charlie may have failed to make it seventeen wins on the bounce but he lost nothing in defeat, running on very strongly to finish a close third. Boylesports Bob was on another planet, however.

It was clear John Boyle’s star was in great heart in his previous race, his first since running up the English Derby, but this was an even better display.

Short Grip flew into the turn to set a searing gallop but her fate was sealed when Boylesports Bob moved past Poets Dawn around the opening two bends to go second. Tuono Charlie was left a little short of room on the bend and could only turn fourth.   

Into the third turn, it was clear that Boylesports Bob meant business. The Paul Hennessy trained son of Good news and Roanna Bess was motoring and starting to close on the pace-setter. For as good and as game as Short Grip is, she has been lightly raced of late and perhaps needs another run or two to reach peak fitness.

It was impossible for her to hold the rampant Boylesports Bob. The favourite charged up the home straight to take over before easing on to score by two and a half lengths from Short Grip. Tuono Charlie flew home to finish just a length away in third. 

Heat 16 – FREDDIE MARCHES CLEAR

The UK challenge is very much alive in this year’s Boylesports Derby with March On Freddie producing a near-foot-perfect display to run clear of his rivals in Heat 16.

Great credit must go to Dave Millins and George Watson for making the journey to Shelbourne Park but it’s clear they knew what they had their hands on.

March On Freddie was understandably sent off a hot favourite but his billing was fully justified. Coming away on terms from the stripes draw, he flew into the turn to quickly seize control. As he edged inwards on the bend, Miami King and Syd Zafiro seemed to get a little closer but it was their last sniff of the leader.

Once straightening into the back straight, March On Freddie put on the afterburners, stretching away from two talented rivals. Four to five lengths in front at the third turn, he was relentless up the home straight before crossing the line seven and a half lengths clear of Miami King in 29.19.

Syd Zafiro was third, two lengths further adrift. On this type of form, March On Freddie is a serious Derby contender. One thing is certain, the son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow was built to excel at Shelbourne Park.

Heat 17 – SYD SKIPS CLEAR TO WIN IN STYLE

Tribal Syd made it two from two for his new owners the Dubs And Culchies Syndicate, driving clear to halfway before going on to justify odds-on favouritism in comfortable fashion.

The Murt Leahy trained son of Droopys Sydney and Myahs Friend was sent off the 1-2 favourite and he quickly moved to the head of affairs.

Showing all his trademark early dash, he quickly put daylight between himself and his rivals. Southwood Stan turned second and did all he could to stay in touch but Tribal Syd was loving life out front. Showing no signs of taking his foot off the pedal, Tribal Syd raced to a four and a half lengths victory over Southwood Stan in 29.50. Faypoint Harvey was always third, finishing a length further back.

Heat 18 – DOLLY DASHES TO SUCCESS

Singalong Dolly may have only come in a reserve but it was clear she was ready to race from the very opening stride in Heat 18.

The Cesarewitch champion rocketed from traps and was soon in complete command for Pat Buckley and Gilbert Anderson.

A powerful galloper that stays 600yds out well, she was always going to take some catching. Ballymac Gizmo did all he could in the closing stages to get closer but Singalong Dolly was in no mood to surrender any of her advantage.

Powering up the home straight, the daughter of Droopys Sydney and Mydras Dawn raced to a very straightforward four length success over Ballymac Gizmo in 29.39. Hawkfield Blue was another length and a half back in third.

Heat 19 – FEVER LEAVES IT LATE

Paul Horig and Sean Bourke’s Mustang Fever took Heat 19 but she left it late.

Reeling in long-time pace-setter Grangeclare Lady in the closing yards before holding the rank outsider Crokers Rocket in a thrilling finish. The daughter of Droopys Sydney and Mustang Kay Cee was actually fastest into stride and led for much of the way into the turn, only to be headed by the early paced Grangeclare Lady.

The pair continued to race first and second for much of the way but Mustang Fever seemed to be moving the stronger as they hit the final bend. Despite showing a little indecision as to whether to go inside or outside, she finally got the better of her rival in the dying strides.

Crokers Rocket, after turning third, also closed throughout before making one last attempt to get on terms on the run in. In a desperate finish, Mustang Fever held Crokers Rocket by a head in 29.86. Grangeclare Lady was just a neck back in third. In victory, Mustang Fever initiated a fine double for Pat Guilfoyle.

Heat 20 – BIG JIM CONTINUES HIS MAGNIFICENT RUN OF FORM

Ballinabola Jim made it five wins on the spin in Heat 20 where he was sent off a rather generous looking 8-1.

De Lahdedah, the English Derby champ, was an unbackable favourite at 1-5 but a tardy start and traffic problems would see him struggle to get into a challenging position.

Instead, it was Ballinabola Jim that made the most of his wide draw to move past the early leaders Val Tashadelek and Denos Bay as they hit the second bend. This was the decisive moment in the contest with Brendan Murphy’s massive son of Good News and Ballinabola Rum easing on down the back straight.

While all this was goinmg on, e Lahdedah found himself in a pocket on the fence with nowhere to go. He made the decision to switch wide down the back straight and this afforded him enough room to get into a qualifying position but there was no way he was going to make up the ground lost on the strong running Ballinabola Jim.

Trained by Brendan Murphy for the Murphy Ballinaboola Syndicate, the April ’22 whelp powered on for a comfortable four and a half length victory over Denos Bay in 29.40 with De Lahdedah another length back in third. 

Heat 21 – DAZZLER DICTATES TO CONTAIN CORNFLAKE

Knockeen Dazzler made a winning start to his Derby campaign in Heat 21, coming away racing from his wide draw to make every inch.

He had to work a little harder than many of his odds-on punters thought, however, as UK raider Arthur Cornflake stayed on well to close in the latter stages.

Knockeen Dazzler, who was having his first start for Pat Guilfoyle, did what was needed. Despite coming back to his rivals in the closing yards, Daniel O’Rahilly’s son of Laughil Blake and Love Island went on to win by three parts of a length in 29.72. Arthur Cornflake looked very happy to be back in Shelbourne Park, showing fine pace from the second turn to the line, finishing second. Dromana Dano also ran well to finish just a length back in third.  

Heat 22 – DOLLAR WORKS HARD TO LEAD LATE

Untold Dollar displayed real class to emerge on top in Heat 24 for Graham Holland and Callum and John Purdy.

Glengar Martha went up fastest to lead the field around the opening two bends but Untold Dollar was always in her slipstream despite having to check slight at the opening turn. 

It was the same scenario at the third turn with Untold Dollar charging at the pace-setter only to have the door closed again. This may have cost many greyhounds their chance but Untold Dollar seems to be running with real purpose and he quickly recovered.

As Glengar Martha swung wide off the final turn, Untold Dollar made his move. Staying on strongly, the son of Newinn Taylor and Glenegat Mildred came through in the dying yards to beat his rival by a head in 29.55. Hot Wood was best of the remainder, some three and a half lengths further back.

Heat 23 – WHAT AN EFFORT FROM ANNIE

There was another tight finish to Heat 23 with Clonfert Annie producing a massive run to lead in the final yards for John Young.

Fahy Hazel went up fastest to lead on the bend but she was only one of four leaders at various points of the contest.

Born To Perform, who was the hot favourite slipped around second and soon headed Fahy Hazel. It seemed as though she was then going to emerge a good winner but Bonkersinyonkers made his move down to the third turn.

Charging up the fence, he hit the front for a couple of strides only for Born To Perform to drive the bend to go back to the front. By this point, Clonfert Annie, who had taken a bump in the opening yards and at the bend, was starting to motor.

Coming from fifth spot, she moved fourth on the third turn before coming between rivals to go third on the final bend. Born To Perform began to drift wide as they turned for home, forcing Clonfert Annie to switch sides and challenge on the leader’s inside but she headed Bonkersinyonkers passing the 550yd boxes before grabbing the lead inside the final twenty yards.

She would get up to win by a neck from Born To Perform in 29.91 with Bonkersinyonkers another two and a half lengths back in third. 

Heat 24 – ALL IN GOOD TIME

In Good Time was back to winning ways in Heat 24, showing fine back straight pace to make a decisive move passing halfway.

Trained by Brendan Maunsell for the Working Together Syndicate, the son of Droopys Sydney and Peters Queen disputed the lead into the turn alongside Bartlemy Cop and Hello Sonny.

He may have taken a bump at this point but turned close to Bartlemy Cop before taking over as they approached halfway. It would prove the decisive moment in the contest. The slow starting Deadly Choice came with a huge charge into the third turn to moved second around the last two bends but he had too much ground to make up.

In truth, In Good Time kicked again up the straight to emerge a relatively easy winner by two lengths in 29.63. Deadly Choice was a good second with a five length gap to Bartlemy Cop in third.

Heat 25 – SHE REALLY IS THERE

The Rosemary price trained Is She There may have been a decent price to win Heat 25 but her victory was certainly deserved after she broke fast to lead the field into the back straight before rallying to see off Quarry Boy.

Romeo Taylor was the warm favourite from three and was expected to set a blistering pace but he completely mistimed his exit and was never a player at any point. In contrast, Is She There broke smartly and quickly mastered Prince Naseem into the turn.

Driving the bend, Eugene Price and Colin Rosbottom’s Is She There caused Prince Naseem to check off, allowing Quarry Boy to move second. The latter quickly began to close on the leader and actually took over around the last two bends.

Is She There was very game, however. Showing fine determination, she stuck on grimly to beat Quarry Boy by a length and a half in 29.83. Prince Naseem recovered from his opening bend bother to take third, just a length adrift.

Heat 26 – AN EVENTFUL FINISH AS PUMA POUNCES

The results page will tell you that Benalmadena Puma came out on top in the final heat of the round but that only goes to tell a small part of the story.

After twenty-five heat with little drama, this was the most eventful contest with Laurels champion Crafty Shivoo crashing out after herself and her great market rival Cheap Sandwiches clashed on the bend.

Not A Wink then got involved, leaving Ballyhimikin Leo to take charge as they hit the back straight. His time at the head of affairs was relatively short-lived, however. Benalmadena Puma began to close with real purpose into the third turn before making his move between the last two bends.

Going to the front, the son of Good News and Impact Iowa quickly moved into a decisive lead. Remarkably, Cheap Sandwiches recovered so well from his opening bend troubles that he moved second on the final turn but there waws no stopping Benalmadena Puma, who went on to cross the line three and a half lengths to the good in 30.03.    

******

BOYLESPORTS DERBY DRAW – ROUND 2

It was late into the evening when the draw for the second round of the Boylesports Derby was completed in the Champion Stakes suite on the top floor of Shelbourne Park but it has thrown up some wonderful clashes.

The full draw can be seen below and the form will be available in the coming days.

2^nd round draw

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25^TH

Heat 1

1 Kapuka Warrior

2 Toolmaker Curio

3 Thats It Jack

4 Syd Zafiro

5 Magical Sapphire (w)

6 Crokers Rocket (w)

Heat 2

1 Ballymac Finn

2 Randolph Scotts

3 Fairy Footsteps

4 Dark Dilemma

5 Glitzy Magic (w)

6 Dynamic Force (w)

Heat 3

1 House Martin

2 Tempestade

3 Droopys Metaphor

4 Ballyhimikin Leo

5 Tivoli Milo (w)

6 March On Freddie (w)

Heat 4

1 Cheque For Cash

2 Da Bold Falcon

3 Untold Dollar

4 Miami King

5 Up Front Magic (w)

6 Deadly Disco (w)

Heat 5

1 Clona Duke

2 Hawkfield Blue

3 Clona Stand

4 Grangeclare Lady

5 Glengar Martha (w)

6 Maireads Prince (w)

Heat 6

1 Rushy Meadows

2 Daleroad Devon

3 Unanimous Panther

4 Short Grip (m)

5 Seven Beach (w)

6 Tarsna Maasai (w)

Heat 7

1 Tuono Charlie

2 Scooby The Boss

3 Ballymac Gizmo

4 In Good Time (m)

5 Carrick Aldo (w)

6 Bockos Diamond (w

Heat 8

1 Droopys Carbine

2 Jaytee Craze

3 Denos Bay

4 Undulation (m)

5 Tribal Syd (w)

6 A Lucky Julie (w)

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26^TH

Heat 9

1 De Lahdedah 

2 Bartlemy Cop

3 Extra Gain

4 Clonfert Annie (m)

5 Knockeen Dazzler (w)

6 Ryhope Beach (w)

Heat 10

1 Beanos Podge

2 Whyaye Bonnylad

3 Singalong Dolly

4 Farney Chime (m)

5 Carmac King (m)

6 Fahy Hazel (w)

Heat 11

1 Southwood Stan

2 Prince Naseem

3 Superfast Gorden

4 Born To Perform (m)

5 Benalmadena Puma (m)

6 Robbies Galaxy (w)

Heat 12

1 Breaghmore Dice

2 Deelish Nora

3 Bonkersinyonkers

4 Down To Business (m)

5 Blackeyed Turbo (m)

6 Bombay Pat (w)

Heat 13

1 Newport Pier

2 Callaway Knegare

3 Quarry Boy

4 Dromana Dano (m)

5 Mustang Fever (m)

6 Ballinabola Jim (w)

Heat 14

1 Faypoint Harvey

2 Hawkfield Abbie

3 Bubbly Shadow

4 Is She There (m)

5 Droopys Avatar (m)

6 Boylesports Bob (w)

Heat 15

1 Ower Cracker

2 De Foxy Devil

3 Arthur Cornflake

4 Dashing Toro (m)

5 Scooby Pacemaker (m)

6 Deadly Choice (w)

Heat 16

1 Ballymac Briar

2 Castleivy Ginge

3 Ballymac Danica

4 Hello Diego (m)

5 Hot Wood (m)

6 Cheap Sandwiches (w)

******

MORE FIREWORKS LIKELY IN BOYLESPORTS DERBY

It seems safe to expect more fireworks at Shelbourne Park this evening as the opening round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby draws to a conclusion.

There were so many wonderful displays on Friday night and those journeying to the newly refurbished St Lotts Road venue will be praying for much of the same tonight.

Who can follow in the footsteps of Bockos Diamond, Carrick Aldo and Bombay Pat? There are plenty of candidates and, thankfully, the weather forecast is for moderate conditions, allowing our canine stars to shine brightly. The action gets underway at 7.34pm and an early arrival is recommended. Below is our heat-by-heat guide to this evening’s action.  

MEMPHIS JUST GETS THE NOD

Heat 14, the first of tonight’s session, is a wide-open affair.

After winning the Laurels consolation and posting a rapid 28.03 in a recent trial. Droopys Supply has been installed the marginal favourite but slight preference is for Phoenix Memphis.

He has tremendous early speed and seems to have strengthened in recent times. The step up to 550yds can play to his strengths and he is a tentative selection to see off Droopys Supply. Castleivy Ginge, Ballymac Briar, Deeish Nora and Tivoli Milo all boast some superb also, meaning there is little room for error in what should be a fascinating contest.

CAN BOB STOP CHARLIE?

Tuono Charlie continues his bid for history in Heat 15 where he will attempt to claim a seventeenth successive victory, a sequence that goes all the way back to March.

He has been nothing short of sensational over six bends but tonight steps back in trip.

There is no doubt he has the pace, power and determination to maintain his winning ways but Boylesports Bob stands in his way. The English Derby runner-up is made for the 550yd trip at Shelbourne Park and was hugely impressive in his latest outing. He has a great draw in the stripes and will likely start favourite.

Throw in the high class Short Grip and the pacey duo of Poets Dawn and Scooby Pacemaker and it’s a tremendous contest to look forward to. Boylesports Bob is given the nod but don’t be surprised if Tuono Charlie keeps us dreaming.

FREDDIE TO FLY THE FLAG FOR THE UK

March On Freddie is the UK’s best chance of Irish Derby glory in many years.

Incredibly, the trophy hasn’t been won by a British trained runner since Toms The Best in 1997 but March On Freddie is far from a sightseer.

Twenty-four hours after his litter brother Bockos Diamond set the standard in the opening session, Freddie will bid to repeat that sort of run from an ideal draw in the stripes. There is no doubt the draw has been kind to the David Mullins trained star and he can take full advantage.

Miami King and Syd Zafiro are his nearest rivals in the market and both must be respected but if March On Freddie repeats his best UK form, he can dominate from early to emerge a good winner.

TRIBAL SYD TO PROVE TOO SLICK

Tribal Syd has had a year to remember, winning the Tipperary Cup and running supremely well in top company throughout.

He will relish the longer run to the turn in Heat 17 and is set to set a searing gallop.

In his only previous outing over the trip around Shelbourne Park he posted 16.83 to the third turn. That would have been fast enough to lead every contest in the 2023 Derby. Of his rivals, Faypoint Harvey is perhaps the main threat. A strong runner with a kind draw on the fence, he will be ready to pounce should the favourite make any mistakes. Elite Josh will stay on strongly and could emerge as the best of the remainder. 

BLUE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DRAW

Hawkfield Blue recently returned to his very best, scoring in 28.07 and 28.04 and the return to 550yds shouldn’t be an issue in Heat 18.

From an ideal draw on the fence, he is likely to start a warm favourite, although an early advantage is imperative.

He can’t afford any mistakes, however, as he faces some notable rivals including English Derby finalist Ballymac Gizmo, the hugely fast Yorkie Ollie, the powerful Deadly Disco and promising youngster Swords Don. Sundance Shirley is a non-runner and will be replaced by a reserve.

Of those taking on Hawkfield Blue, Yorkie Ollie and Deadly Disco could potentially offer the greatest threat. Deadly Disco will finish at speed and could attract some support after a recent 28.14 trial but Yorkie Ollie is the main danger. He looked a potential superstar in his early starts but has been out of luck recently. If he can recapture his best form, he would emerge as a serious player.

HARBOUR TO OVERPOWER HIS SISTER

Owen McKenna sends out littermates Neko Harbour and Grangeclare Lady in Heat 19.

The pair are out of former Derby champion Susie Sapphire and, much like their dam, have tremendous speed into the turn.

Grangeclare Lady is perhaps the more likely pace-setter but Neko Harbour may prove stronger in the second half of the contest. This is far from a two-dog affair with Scooby The Boss and Mustang fever also respected.

Mustang Fever recently won in 28.22 around Shelbourne and a trap five draw isn’t an issue, while Scooby The Boss is far from the finished article and remains open to much improvement. Ballyhooly Bruno is another worthy of a mention or Tom O’Neill. He won last time out in 29.77 and could take advantage of any traffic from a good draw.

LAHDEDAH TO STAKE HIS CLAIMS

English Derby champ De Lahdedah will be one of the hottest favourites of the night and is set to claim his first success since that famous night at Towcester in Heat 20.

Liam Dowling’s superstar is perfectly housed on the fence and is likely to have far too much for his rivals if starting on terms.

That’s not to say he won’t have a battle if he makes any mistakes. Dashing Toro and Ballinabola Jim are both powerful, determined trackers with the pace to get involved. The pair race from the outside boxes and are likely to make the frame if avoiding traffic.

De Lahdedah has the perfect draw, however. If coming away racing, he could send out a warning to those paying attention that he could be a big player in this Derby as he bids to become the first greyhound to win the Irish and English Derby in the same year.   

KNOCKEEN TO DAZZLE

Knockeen Dazzler will have his first start for Pat Guilfoyle in Heat 21 and many will be expecting the Kirby Memorial champion to justify odds-on favouritism from a perfect draw in the outside box.

Blessed with tremendous early dash, he looks the likely pace-setter and would be a tough nut to crack if getting loose into the back straight.

Rapido Bob was in fine form when last seen last month and could emerge as the main threat. A good starter with the strength to see out 600yds, he has to be respected but he may struggle to match Knockeen Dazzler for brute early speed. Arthur Cornflake is an interesting runner for Patrick Godfrey. The UK based tracker actually started his career at Shelbourne and looked a bright prospect when winning over 575yds in late May. He will appreciate the galloping nature of Shelbourne and could potentially secure qualification to the second round if avoiding traffic.

DOLLAR TO DELIVER

Graham Holland continues his pursuit of a record equalling fourth Irish Derby success in Heat 22 where Untold Dollar is set to start a hot favourite.

Holland has a remarkable first night in the Derby, sending out three wonderful heat winners and Untold Dollar is equipped to match his kennel companion.

An early season star on both sides of the Irish Sea, the Monmore Puppy Derby winner was brilliant in his latest victory at Shelbourne and could develop into a serious Derby contender. He is likely to go up fast from three and can turn in front.

Talented ladies Glengar Martha and Droopys Avatar are respected but neither can afford any mistakes. With Untold Dollar drawn on their inner, both would need to come through the bars to clear the bend. Untold Dollar is a confident selection to dominate.

EXPECT BORN TO PERFORM

The absence of Carrick Keano from Heat 23 leaves it a far more open affair.

Born To Perform won the first three starts of her career but is without a victory for almost nine months. If she finds a fast start from an inside draw, she could potentially get back to winning ways.

She has been running well, albeit a long way behind Bombay Pat in recent starts but she doesn’t mean anything of that standard tonight and that could make the difference. Bonkersinyonkers and Clonfert Annie are both talented and have the pace to play a part also but Born To Perform can get first run on both which may prove decisive.

TURBO AND CHOICE APPEAL

Heat 24 is quite a puzzle. Much will depend on which of the six can turn in front but one suspects that both Blackeyed Turbo and Deadly Choice will finish far faster than their rivals.

In Good Time has some superb form and is perhaps more likely to lead than most but he hasn’t won a race since July.

That win was a shorthead verdict over Knockeen Dazzler and that form could read very well should the latter do the business earlier on the card. Slight preference is for the outside duo, however. Blackeyed Turbo has shown all sorts of pace in her recent outings and is likely to absolutely motor from the second turn. Deadly Choice was a real eye-catcher in previous outings at Shelbourne and is also greatly respected. He too has massive pace from the second turn, while a recent 28.16 trials highlights his well-being. Of the others, Neon Lights rarely runs a bad race and could potentially make the frame but the nod goes to Blackeyed Turbo over Deadly Choice. Expect this contest to go right own to the wire. 

TAYLOR TO SHOOT CLEAR AND HOLD ON

Recent Laurels third Romeo Taylor is long odds-on to set the pace in Heat 25 but the extra twenty-five yards will test the limits of his stamina.

He will be suited by the fact that the forecast has changed to dry, moderate conditions but he will need to build a clear advantage to halfway.

Even then, he may be all out to contain the likes of Juvenile Derby finalist and big finisher Hello Diego in the closing yards, while others like Droopys Roar, Quarry Boy and Prince Naseem all stay 550yd strongly. That’s not to mention the in-form Is She There. She is perhaps the most likely challenger to Romeo Taylor in the opening exchanges and could get first crack at the favourite if his stride were to shorten earlier than expected.

Given the form of Graham Holland and his many stars over the past twenty four hours, it would be unwise to side with anything other than Romeo Taylor but his supporters will be keeping a close eye on what is happening in behind him off the second turn. Hello Diego is seen as the main threat, although Is She There is also respected.   

SHIVOO AND SANDWICHES TO END THE ROUND IN STYLE

There could be no better way to conclude the opening round action in the Boylesports Derby than with the clash of recent Laurels champion Crafty Shivoo and the brilliant Cheap Sandwiches.

The pair will absolutely dominate the market with each of their four rivals expected to start at double figure odds.

It’s difficult to disagree. Crafty Shivoo is a confirmed superstar. The 2023 Sporting Press Irish Oaks champion returns to Shelbourne and will have a mountain of support. Her pace and class is there for all to see but will her latest victory in terrible conditions in the Laurels decider leave a mark? If she is at anything short of her best, Cheap Sandwiches will be ready to pounce. The Graham Holland trained star is perfectly drawn, has been in magnificent form and has been campaigned around Shelbourne Park in recent weeks.

All this could perhaps give him a slight edge, although Crafty Shivoo is a class act and is not going to make life easy for her rival. The pair can race clear of their rivals, delivering a real spectacle in the process. No matter which of the duo comes out on top, both are capable of going deep into this Derby.

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INCREDIBLE START TO DERBY AS DIAMOND AND PAT SHINE

The start of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby may have been much later this year but the extra weeks and months of waiting suddenly seemed worthwhile at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night as the best greyhounds on the planet put on a clinic.

There were so many brilliant displays in the first thirteen opening round heats but Graham Holland was determined to take the headlines, sending out three brilliant winners including the sensational Bockos Diamond and Bombay Pat.

The talk after racing was, who was the more impressive? It’s hard to say as both displayed the sort of early speed and back straight pace that would leave enthusiasts drooling. In terms of the clock, Bockos Diamond was faster but Bombay Pat was later on the card in slightly worse conditions. The one thing to take out of both their displays is, it’s going to need something special to beat one or both in the coming weeks.

A heat by heat guide to Friday’s opening round action. 

Heat 1 – DICE ROLLS OVER RIVALS

Favourite backers made a terrible start to the Derby with odds-on market leader Coosane Pickles finishing only fourth after finding early traffic.

In contrast, those that took a chance with Breaghmore Dice at much bigger odds were in clover as he made every inch for MJ Corrigan, holding the persistent challenge of De Foxy Devil in the process.

Breaghmore Dice has some superb Shelbourne Park form in the past so it was something of a shock to see him returned at 14-1. Breaking fastest from trap two, he comfortably led his rivals into the turn but had to stay tuned in throughout with De Foxy Devil pressing. Breaghmore Dice had no intention of letting his advantage slip, however, with the son of Ballymac cashout and Ballymac Cams coming home two lengths clear of De Foxy Devil in 29.77 with Fairy Footsteps another two lengths adrift in third. Coosane Pickles, despite running on well, could only finish fourth.

Heat 2 – DIAMOND SENDS OUT A CLEAR WARNING TO DERBY RIVALS

Bockos Diamond is the hottest Derby favourite since Clares Rocket in 2017 and it is easy to see why.

The stunningly fast son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow was simply sensational in the second heat as he posted a brilliant 29.23 in what could only be described as a demolition of his rivals.

A long odds-on favourite after a tardy start, he displayed the most incredible early speed to clear his rivals comfortably. With daylight on Hawkfield Abbie into the back straight, he stretched right away to put the result beyond any doubt. Clocking a magical 16.85 to the third turn, he was sending out the loudest and clearest of warnings to potential Derby hopefuls.

This was simply incredible from the Graham Holland trained star. His owners, the Remember Then Syndicate, would have been delighted to watch their superstar coast home to the most impressive victory, crossing the line six lengths to the good. Hawkfield Abbie ran a fine race in second but just had no chance with the winner, while third went to Beanos Podge a further half length back. On this evidence, Bockos Diamond is fully deserving of his lofty perch in the betting. He really is something very special.

Heat 3 – WARRIOR TOO SHARP FOR RIVALS

Kapuka Warrior followed in the footsteps of the two previous heat winners by dictating throughout for a comfortable success for owner Matt Dunne and handler Karol Ramsbottom.

Indeed, the son of Good News and Cruel Intentions was always in complete command after a flying start from the inside box.

Clona Stand managed to turn second and did threaten briefly passing halfway but Kapuka Warrior clearly had his measure. Maireads Prince missed the start but moved third on the third turn before staying on well to grab second in the closing yards but Kapuka Warrior was gone. The February ’21 whelp emerged a straightforward and impressive winner by six lengths in 29.55. Clona Stand would finish another three parts away in third.

Heat 4 – AWESOME ALDO

Carrick Aldo has long been a class act, albeit over shorter trips than the 550yds but he took the step up in distance in his stride in Heat 4.

In fact, he relished the extra yards into the bend to see off a talented field with little fuss.

Cheque For Cash also ran a big race in second but he could never land a glove on the leader. Trained by David Murray for Thomas Glynn, Carrick Aldo displayed his brilliant early speed after a slick exit to charge to the front well before the turn.

Cheque For cash was his only rival, turning second. That was how they would finish with Carrick Aldo going on to beat his rival by four lengths in a very satisfactory 29.42. Cheque For Cash had eight lengths on the third place finisher, Daleroad Devon.

Heat 5 – BEACH WINS A THRILLER

Seven Beach had to win Heat 5 twice, first getting the better of Droopys Metaphor after a speed battle before then having to dig deep to contain a flying finish from the Oaks champion A Lucky Julie.

This was a tremendous contest but, ultimately, Seven Beach emerged a good winner for the Beach Boys Trio Syndicate despite the need for the judge to separate them on the line. 

Flashing from six, Seven Beach held a narrow advantage into the turn when he was challenged by Droopys Metaphor. The latter ran a tighter line to move upsides but Seven Beach was soon in front. Showing superb back straight pace, the Jennifer O’Donnell trained son of Pestana and Whitings Gift moved on into the third turn.  

By this point, A Lucky Julie was starting to catch the eye. Showing massive dash, she moved second before setting her sights on the pace-setter. In a tremendous finish, Seven Beach had to pull out all the stops to hold A Lucky Julie by a short head in 29.50. Droopys Metaphor would finish another two and a half lengths adrift in third.

Heat 6 – CRAZE TOO GOOD

Jaytee Craze produced one of the best starts of his career to run out a fine winner of Heat 6 despite taking a bump on the turn.

The Paul Hennessy trained son of Ballymac Cashout and Ballymac Minton flashed from three to lead into the turn where Rushy Meadows challenged on his inner.

The pair clashed at this point but it cost them little momentum. Rushy Meadows was briefly upsides but Jaytee Craze ran a superb second bend to shoot to the front. As his challenger looked to edge off the fence, she was forced to check her stride, leaving Jaytee Craze in control. 

The loss of momentum would cost Rushy Meadows second spot as Dark Dilemma moved forward to chase the leader but there was no stopping Jaytee Craze. In what was his first start in over a month, John Turner and Lee Craze’s powerful galloper stayed on to secure a four length verdict in 29.63. Dark Dilemma was second with Rushy Meadows holding on for third, a further two lengths back.

Heat 7 – DYNAMIC FORCES HIS WAY TO THE FRONT

Dynamic Force carried his superb Cork form into the Derby with a fine victory in Heat 7, completing a quick double for Paul Hennessy in the process.

Up Front Magic came in as a reserve into six and shot from traps to hold a narrow advantage into the turn but he was pressed by both Dynamic Force and Whyaye Bonnylad.

Things got quite tight on the bend but Dynamic Force has a habit of negotiating such scenarios with little fuss and that was again the case. Charging between his two rivals, he asserted as they entered the back straight.

Up Front Magic may have been a big price but he ran a huge race, moving second again as they straightened up and chasing Dynamic Force to the line. Dynamic Force was to make a winning return to Shelbourne, however. Maintaining a good gallop to the finish, he would eventually see off Up Front Magic by two and a half lengths in 29.67. Whyaye Bonnylad progressed in third, some three lengths further adrift.

Heat 8 – SAPPHIRE DIGS DEEP TO WIN TIGHT AFFAIR

The most competitive race on the card was Heat 8 where Magical Sapphire would eventually see off the luckless duo of Superfast Gorden and Undulation.

Tinahue Pappone took them along in this contest, taking over on the corner from Highview Splash.

Magical Sapphire also went up well, going second between the opening two bends. The race began to take shape as they hit halfway. Tinahue Pappone was under pressure from Magical Sapphire with Superfast Gorden and Undulation next.

Magical Sapphire joined the leader on the third turn but was held up slightly as she attempted to drive clear. Meanwhile Superfast Gorden was right on their heels and advancing, while Undulation was also in full stride.

Turning for home it was anyone’s race. Tinahue Pappone, Magical Sapphire, Superfast Gorden and Undulation were all there with a chance but Magical Sapphire finally got loose. As Superfast Goren and Undulation struggled to find a seam, Magical Sapphire began to pick up pace.

Staying on strongly, Pat Guilfoyle’s daughter of Grangeview Ten and Grangeview Mags eased on to win by a length and a half from Superfast Gorden in 29.91. Undulation was just a half length back in third. This is one of those contests where you can ignore the clock. The first three home all displayed fine pace and determination and they will go faster in the coming weeks.    

Heat 9 – DANICA IN POLE POSITION

Ballymac Danica justified favouritism in Heat 9 as she continued her journey back to her brilliant early season best.

Liam Dowling’s brilliant daughter of Ballymac Cooper and Ballymac Arminta was too sharp for her rivals, taking charge early before making every inch.

Her task was made somewhat easier on the turn with her two nearest market rivals clashing as Innfield Destiny ran off the bend to broadside Robbies Galaxy. Instead, Farney Chime took up the chase but it was futile. Ballymac Danica would emerge a comfortable five and a half length scorer in 29.82. Farney Chime was second with Robbies Galaxy running a remarkable race to grab third in the closing yards, a further three lengths back.

Heat 10 – DOWN MEANS BUSINESS

Down To Business has been quite a servant for Bernadetta Connolly, Darragh Kelly and Sharon Mulcahy and he again did them proud in Heat 10 where he was at his professional best.

Showing fine speed from five, he was quickly in the driving seat.   

Droopys Carbin chased him down the back straight but Down To Business has good form over even further and he ran right to the line. The son of Pestana and Newinn Madam kept on finding out front to eventually see off the staying on Glitzy Magic and Droopys Carbine.

There was a stride or two off the final turn when Glitzy Magic looked a big threat but Down To Business lived up to his name to see off that rival by two lengths with Droopy Carbine the same distance away in third.

Heat 11 – MAASAI IN A HURRY

Tarsna Maasai confirmed his standing as one of the most progressive greyhound in training with a superb trap to line success in Heat 11.

Geoff Parnaby’s son of Droopys Sydney and Tarsna Rose loves Shelbourne Park, while the 550yd trip really plays to his strengths.

The July ’22 whelp certainly meant business on this occasion, flashing from the outside box to record a 3.33 sectional. In contrast, the favourite Callaway Knegare was slowly into stride and was always struggling to land a blow thereafter.

Tarsna Maasai comfortably led his rivals into the turn. Bubbly Shadow displayed fine pace to enter the back straight in second but he was never going to get to the leader. Tarsna Maasai would go on to secure a deserving four lengths victory in 29.52. Bubbly Shadow was a good second with Callaway Knegare finishing fast to grab third on the line, just a length back.   

Heat 12 – DUKE BACK WITH A BANG

Kevin O’Brien’s Clona Duke has long been amongst the best in training but he hadn’t been seen on a track since running up the Easter Cup back in April.

It was for that reason he was sent to traps a 5-1 chance in Heat 12 only to prove that class is permanent.

Da Bold Falcon was the hot favourite from a kind draw on the fence but was left floundering to the turn with Clona Duke going up fastest ahead of star names like Ballymac Finn and High Trend, while Thats It Jack and Esmonde Swift were also in the mix for second and third.

None could live with the Graham Holland trained Clona Duke, however. The 2022 Juvenile Derby champion was electric into the bend, eventually turning with two lengths in hand. By the second turn he was five clear as his rivals bumped and still he pressed on.

At halfway he found himself in an unassailable lead. Ballymac Finn and High Trend battled it out for second in behind but Clona Duke was never going to be picked up. Despit tiring a little in the latter stages which was perhaps predictable, he emerged a comfortable winner in 29.66. Da Bold Falcon came with a withering run to grab second, albeit it three lengths behind Clona Duka, while Thats It Jack was to grab third, staying on to finish a further four and a half lengths adrift.

Heat 13 – BOMBAY LAYS DOWN A MARKER

It seemed inevitable that Bockos Diamond would grab all the headlines but Bombay Pat got folks talking about who was even the most impressive winner on the card.

His display in Heat 13 was absolutely incredible as he completed a magical treble for Graham Holland.

The pace and power the son of Pestana and Clear Mountain displayed into the turn will live long in the memory. Eventually sent to traps the 1-2 favourite, Bombay Pat missed the kick to give his fleet of supporters a scare but it was short-lived. Once touching the sand, he quickly engaged the afterburners.

Charging up the outside of the track, he made his rivals look as though they were racing in quicksand. Still behind at the winning line first time up, he flew into the turn to go three lengths clear.

There was some scrimmaging in behind but it scarcely mattered to Bombay Pat. Owned by Pat Muldoon and Bayliss Gee, the incredible tracker moved into a near eight length lead by the third turn before coasting home to emerge a brilliant winner. Carmac King did little wrong in defeat, staying on to finish five and a half lengths back in second with a further two length margin to Ower Cracker in third. On this sort of form, Bombay Pat is a serious Derby contender and his odds of glory on November 23^rd are certain to be slashed in the coming hours.

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DERBY NON-RUNNERS

Greenwell Coe became the latest non-runner from the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby.

His place will go to a reserve. So far there have been a number of confirmed non-runner with each set to be replaced. Due to Irish regulations, reserves can’t be confirmed until weigh-in. 

Non-runners

Heat 6 –               Trap 5 Aikins Lad (Drumbo TS winner)

Heat 7 –               Trap 6 Greenwell Coe (w)

Heat 12 –             Trap 5 Casa Miro (Mullingar TS winner)

Heat 16 –             Trap 4 Bredas Wood (Limerick TS winner)

Heat 18 –             Trap 4 Sundance Shirley (Thurles TS winner)

Heat 20 –             Trap 3 Ardera Sam

Heat 23 –             Trap 2 Carrick Keano

*Reserves (all of which have been contacted and confirmed available)

Unanimous Panther

Thats It Jack

Getup Me Boy

Singalong Dolly

Jades Rocket

Friends Of Hank

Up Front Magic (w)

*Heat and traps won’t be confirmed until nearer the time.

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EXPECT A WONDERFUL START TO BOYLESPORTS DERBY

The journey to November 23^rd and a potential place in history begins at the new Shelbourne Park this evening with the start of the Boylesports Irish greyhound Derby.

156 greyhounds will line out in the opening round, half of which will be in action tonight, and favourite to land the Derby crown is Bockos Diamond.

DIAMOND SET TO SPARKLE

In fact, he is the hottest Derby favourite since Clares Rocket in 2017 and we won’t have to wait long to see him in action.

The brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat will be an unbackable favourite to win the second heat and he really should be coming home in front if he is to hand Graham Holland a record equalling fourth Irish Derby five weeks from now.

Of his rivals this evening, Ryhope Beach is his only real rival in the betting and it could be a similar scenario on the track itself. Expect Bockos Diamond to fly into a commanding lead before going on to hold Ryhope Beach.

Shelbourne Park and the 550yd Derby trip are both right up the street of Bockos Diamond and in the coming weeks we could potentially see something very special from the young tracker.

PICKLES TO GET PROCEEDINGS OFF IN STYLE

Coosane Pickles is amongst the fastest bitches in training and her power and pace can see her kick off proceedings in real style.

A non-runner from the final of the Maiden Derby, she returns from a near-three-week layoff and is likely to be ready to roll.

De Foxy Devil, Breaghmore Dice and Toolmaker Note all boast some fine form but Fairy Footsteps is nominated as the main threat given her ability to fly to the turn. If she does return to her fast-starting ways, the Pat Guilfoyle trained bitch could set a strong gallop.

Coosane Pickles is mighty strong, however, and if turning any way close, she will likely pick up Fairy Footsteps at the business end. De Foxy Devil could emerge best of the remainder from an ideal draw on the fence.

PRINCE SET TO REIGN

Those looking for one that represents value should look no further than the Fraser Black trained Maireads Prince in Heat 3.

A talented tracker with superb pace from start to finish, he is best suited by the 550yd trip and has an ideal draw in the stripes.

Available at 5-2 in places during the week, he is nominated as the best value on offer. His latest defeat over 525yds can be ignored given the fact he met the traffic spots but the longer run to the turn will really play to his strengths this evening.

Clona Stand is a narrow favourite with a number of the firms but that might change ahead of the race. He too boasts some fine form, albeit most of it is provincial. If he is to come home in front, he needs to hit the ground running rom three. Of the remainder, Kapuka Warrior is perhaps the main threat to the big two. He has fine early speed and will appreciate his rails draw.

ALDO FACES A TOUGH TEST

There will be a fascinating run to the bend in Heat 4 where a number of talented trackers lock horns. Carrick Aldo has already tasted classic glory after winning last year’s Irish Sprint Cup. The run to the turn over the Derby trip should really play to his strength but he will need to be in front by the third turn in what is his first ever start over 550yds.

Evolution is certain to go up fast but will almost certainly cut for the fence from four. He does tend to hit a flat spot into the third turn and a failure to dictate would see him have to settle for a minor role. Instead, the perfectly draw Cheque For Cash is nominated as a serious danger to Carrick Aldo.

He has some brilliant form at Shelbourne Park, comes into the classic fresh as a daisy and as the overall profile of one that could improve for the step up in trip. From the inside box, he is expected to have a big say in the outcome.

Daleroad Devon is another very interesting participant in this contest. He won his first six starts around Tralee but was out of luck from a nightmare draw in his Shelbourne debut. He faces a far better draw in two this evening and can’t be dismissed, although this is clearly his toughest test yet. Getup Me Lad and Kilgraney Bolger complete a quality field. Both will be available at fancy prices.

BEACH READY FOR DERBY CAMPAIGN

Seven Beach will be one of the hottest favourites of the round when he lines out in the stripes in Heat 5.

In superb fashion in recent weeks, he is perhaps Jennifer O’Donnell’s best chance of landing an unprecedented third Derby in a row.

Blessed with superb early speed and the right draw in six, he can assert on the outside of the track, leaving him the perfect opportunity to take control own the back straight. Droopy Metaphor could certainly challenge Seven beach early.

He will fly up the fence but the extra emphasis on stamina may not play to his strengths. Expect Seven Beach to have too much ammunition for that rival from the third turn. A Lucky Julie, who was last seen when dead-heating in the Oaks decider, lines out in five. She may be in need of the run but it would be brash to ignore her claims given her immense talent. Crokers Sydney and Toolmaker Curio will need to find their trapping boots but both are capable of playing a part also.

CRAZE JUST GETS THE NOD

Aikins Lad is a non-runner in Heat 6.

Depending on whether there are non-runners in earlier heats, his place could potentially go to the hugely talented Unanimous Panther. If that were the case, he would emerge a serious challenger.

Du to the uncertainly over what reserve will go in, however, we must stick to the confirmed runners of which Jaytee Craze is perhaps the best equipped to come out top. He has massive pace and power and would be hard to contain if turning close.

Rushy Meadows is very talented but hasn’t been seen in some time. At her best she would be a major player, while Dark Dilemma has the form in the book and has been running very well. He is a serious contender also. Rolos Bucks and Glenlara Blue have also been in good form and can’t be completely ignored in what looks a wide-open affair.

DYNAMIC TO FORCE THE PACE

Dynamic Force was a brilliant winner of the recent Bart Leahy memorial at Curraheen Park.

Unlike his early career starts, he displayed real strength in the second half of his most recent contests and the step up to 550yds could really see him at his best.

He lines out in five in Heat 7 where Whyaye Bonnylad and Swords Hero can offer the greatest resistance. One suspects Dynamic Force is still on an upward trajectory and he is chosen to take charge before halfway to emerge a comfortable winner for Paul Hennessy. Whyaye Bonnylad has the early speed to challenge and can play a big part but he will need to get loose at the head of affairs. 

LADIES TO COME TO THE FORE

It could pay to side with the ladies in Heat 8 where Undulation and Magical Sapphire are well housed on the outside of the track.

There was support for Superfast Gorden during the week but he faces a tough draw ion the fence with the rail-seeking Highview Splash likely to cut inwards from two.

With the prospect of things getting tight on the fence, Undulation and Magical Sapphire can come for the fore. Undulation was brilliant last Saturday night and seems to be as good as ever. She might just get first run on Magical Sapphire, who looks a serious danger after she too impressed last weekend. Extra Gain will be finishing faster than any and could represent a little value at double figure odds. Tinahue Pappone ran well through the Laurels but needs to come through the bars to cause an upset.

CAN DANICA FIND FORM?

There’s plenty of questions to be answered in Heat 9. Firstly, can Ballymac Danica return to the sort of form that saw her establish herself as one of Ireland’s best earlier in the year.

A couple of recent outings will stand to her but she needs to be at her sharpest from trap four.

Innfield Destiny displayed all sorts of pace to finish runner-up in the Juvenile Derby but can he tidy up his starting. At present, his tendency to give his rivals a start is costing him but he must be greatly respected from a kind draw on the rail.

Of the remainder, Robbies Galaxy could potentially represent value. A powerful galloper with some fine form over further, he would be favoured by any traffic on his inner. Ballymac Danica gets the nod ahead of Innfield Destiny but don’t sleep on Robbies Galaxy.

BOOKEM MAKES DUBLIN DEBUT

Droopys Bookem is one of the least exposed greyhounds in the competition but in his short career he has shown plenty of pace and power.

It’s obvious to many that he will develop into a star but will this come too soon?

He has his first start at Shelbourne Park in Heat 10 and would likely make a bold bid if coming away on terms. Nothing will come easy in this contest, however. Radical Scoby has an ideal draw on the fence and won well last time, Randolph Scotts has impressed at Shelbourne in the past, while Droopys Carbine and Down To Business are also proven at a high level. Even Glitzy Magic, who is set to start a big price, has been in terrific form of late.

Droopys Bookem is chosen to come out on top for Johnny Linehan but don’t be tempted to take short prices.

KNEGARE TO GET BACK TO WINNING WAYS

Juvenile Derby champion Callaway Knegare can leave his latest defeat behind him in Heat 11.

A clever tracker with awesome pace and power, he could prove to be very difficult to contain if turning close to the pace.

House Martin, the 2023 Derby runner-up Bockos Crystal, Kirby memorial runner-up Bubbly Shadow and UK raider Keefill Maverick are all respected but the main threat to Calaway Knegare may come in the form of the exciting Tarsna Maasai.

With a perfect draw in the stripes, he is likely to go up fast and would be a tough nut to crack if turning in front. Callaway Knegare is special, however, and his superior strength can make the difference.

A QUALITY-PACKED AFFAIR

Heat 12 is packed with famous names. 2022 Derby runner-up Ballymac Finn takes on 2023 Laurels champion High Trend and 2022 Juvenile Derby winner Clona Duke.

All three owe little to their connections and would be a joy to own.

Da Bold Falcon is set to start favourite, however. The 600yd track record holder is perfectly drawn on the fence, has immense power and will finish at speed. He is expected to arrive late and fast but is vulnerable to one getting loose.

High Trend hasn’t been at his very best of late but his ability to rocket from traps and show big early speed could allow him turn in front. In what looks a fascinating contest, High Trend is a tentative selection to make all at the expense of Da Bold Falcon.

PAT SET TO IMPRESS

Coolavanny Otto, Ventry Faith, Ower Cracker and Carmac King are all very talented and must be respected in the final heat of the night, but Bombay Pat may just have too much ammunition for his rivals.

The recent Maiden Derby champion seems to have rare ability. A stripes draw should afford him room in the early yards, while his brilliant early speed can carry him to the front. After winning in 29.21 and 29.35 in his last two starts, the son of Pestana has been introduced as one of the favourites for Derby glory and he is chosen to get his Derby campaign off to a winning start.

Carmac King was one of the stars of the summer and is seen as the main threat but he will need to come away racing from five. 

******

YET MORE SPECIAL MARKETS FROM BOYLESPORTS

On top of the special Derby markets sent to us to post yesterday, Boylesports have come up some more that may interest punters including a UK trained greyhound to land the blue riband. 

Not since Toms The Best, who was trained by the legendary Nick Savva, in 1997 has the competition been won by a greyhound trained in the UK.

In fact, in most of the subsequent years there was no UK challenge at all. That has changed this year with March On Freddie leading a three-strong team that also consists of Keefill Maverick and Arthur Cornflake.

Boylesports are offering 14-1 about a UK trained winner, which certainly does come under the ‘special’ banner. Given the fact that March On Freddie is a best priced 14-1 to win the classic, it means you are effectively getting three bets for the price of one with his two compatriots included at that price.

Also included is the winning trainer market which is unsurprisingly headed by Graham Holland at 6-4. Graham is bidding for a record equalling fourth Derby success, while Owen McKenna, who is aiming to win for the third time, is next in at 4-1. In fact, the first eight names on the list have all won the classic in the past.

Other markets of real note include the Top Graham Holland trained runner, the top Pat Buckley trained runner and the top Liam Dowling trained runner. You can see the prices for those below.

Boylesports Derby Specials

UK Trained Winner

14-1 

Winning Trainer

6-4         Graham Holland

4             Owen McKenna

9-2         Liam Dowling

7             Paul Hennessy

7             Pat Buckley

10           Robert Gleeson

10           Michael J O'Donovan

12           Patrick Guilfoyle

12           John F McGee

14           Jennifer O'Donnell

18           Brendan Matthews

18           John A Linehan

18           Murt Leahy

33           Karol Ramsbottom

33           Peter Cronin

33           Ian Reilly

50           Marie Gilbert

66           Shaun Conway

66           Gerry Holian

100        Pat Kiely

Top Graham Holland Trained Runner

2             Bockos Diamond

4             Bombay Pat

5             Untold Dollar

5             Cheap Sandwiches

10           Romeo Taylor

12           Daraghs Sydney

16           Clona Duke

20           High Trend

25           Swords Don

25           Faypoint Harvey

25           Swords Hero

33           Bockos Crystal

33           Ardera Sam

66           Riverside Scotch

66           Tempestade 

Top Owen McKenna Trained Runner

EVS         Callaway Knegare

4             Neko Harbour

5             Carmac King

6             Yorkie Ollie

10           Evolution

12           Grangeclare Lady

20           Ventry Faith 

Top Liam Dowling Trained Runner

4-7         De Lahdedah

11-4      Ballymac Danica

8             Ballymac Gizmo

12           Ballymac Briar

14           Ballymac Finn

20           Ballymac Wendy

******

DERBY SPECIALS ON OFFER FROM SPONSORS

Once again, sponsors Boylesports 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 recent Laurels champion Crafty Shivoo, the hugely fast Coosane Pickles and last Saturday’s impressive scorer Undulation. All three are available at 5-1. The only other bitch at single figure odds is Ballymac Danica at 8-1. If you search down the list you are likely to find a bit of value, especially in the each way market.

As you would expect, they have also priced up the track record to bebroken through the competition, meaning one of the 156 starters would need to post 28.98 or better. It was just 6-1 at the start of last year’s Derby but this year it can be backed at 10-1. 

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.

It’s also interesting that, despite far fewer numbers, a wide seed to win the final is red-hot favourite in the winning seed market at 8-13. An inside seed to emerge on top is 11-9, while you can have 10-1 about a middle seed emerging on top. A full list of all the specials can be seen below: 

Boylesports Derby Specials

Track Record To Be Broken During The Derby?

10           Yes (28.99 current record)

Winning Seed?

11-8      Rails

10           Middle

8-13      Wide

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

5             Crafty Shivoo

5             Coosane Pickles

5             Undulation

8             Ballymac Danica

14           Short Grip

14           Born To Perform

14           Glengar Martha

14           Deelish Nora

14           Rushy Meadows

14           A Lucky Julie

16           Grangeclare Lady

16           Mustang Fever

20           Hawkfield Abbie

20           Magical Sapphire

20           Bockos Crystal

25           Breda Wood

25           Poets Dawn

25           Crescent Emily

25           Blackeyed Turbo

25           Ballymac Wendy

25           Newport Pier

25           Is She There

25           Droopys Avatar

33           Fairy Footsteps

40           Fahy Hazel

50           Roanna Bonnie

50           Pivotal Time

50           Astra Fairy

50           Sundance Shirley

66           Clonfert Annie

66           Casa Miro 

A Bitch To Win The Derby?

4-1  

Derby Winner To Be Unbeaten In Every Round?

6-1  

A Greyhound To Make The Final Without Winning A Heat?

6-4   

A Greyhound To Win The Derby Without Winning A Heat?

33-1 

A Bitch To Reach The Derby Final

6-4

******

TALKING DERBY 2024 1ST ROUND PREVIEW

The 2024 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby gets underway this Friday and Saturday night in Shelboune Park.

The draw for the opening round was made earlier today and it's an entry to get excited about!

Join Ian and Barry now as they give us their thoughts from the draw for the 1st Round of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby.

If you cannot see the embedded video above, click here to view on our Youtube channel.

2024 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby Dates

1st Round: Friday 18th & Saturday 19th October
2nd Round: Friday 25th & 26th October
3rd Round: Saturday 2nd November
Quarter Finals: Saturday 9th November 
Semi-Finals: Saturday 16th November
Final: Saturday 23nd November

******

BOYLESPORTS QUICK TO PRICE UP DERBY HEATS

Just hours after the draw for the opening round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby was completed, the sponsors issued prices on the opening round heats.

All 26 heats have been priced up and there are a grand total of ten odds-on favourites.

Hottest of all the odds-on favourites is Bockos Diamond, the ante-post favourite. He takes his chance in Heat 2 and is just 1-3 to continue his winning ways. The full opening round with heat prices can be found below.

Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby – Heat betting

Friday, October 18^th

Heat 1

4              De Foxy Devil

8              Breaghmore Dice

6              Fairy Footsteps

5              Toolmaker Note

8-11       Coosane Pickles       

16           Labana Cody 

Heat 2

12           Hawkfield Abbie

33           Da Real Madjack

8              Ballymac Wendy

25           Beanos Podge

1-3          Bockos Diamond

3              Ryhope Beach 

Heat 3

3              Kapuka Warrior

5              Darraghs Sydney

11-4       Clona Stand

6              Blastoff Rex

16           Rough Frankie

7-4          Maireads Prince

Heat 4

5-2          Cheque For Cash

9-2          Daleroad Devon

12           Getup Me Lad

3              Evolution

11-8       Carrrick Aldo

33           Kilgraney Bolger 

Heat 5

3              Droopys Metaphor

33           Pharis Jerry

10           Toolmaker Curio

16           Crokers Sydney

9-2          A Lucky Julie

8-15       Seven Beach 

Heat 6

8              Rolo Bucks

11-4       Rushy Meadows

13-8       Jaytee Craze

9-4          Dark Dilemma

50           Aikins Lad

5              Glenlara Blue 

Heat 7

5              Swords Hero

16           Newport Pier

6              Glendale Zozo

9-4          Whyaye Bonnyland

EVS        Dynamic Force

8              Greenwell Coe 

Heat 8

7-2          Superfast Gordon

3              Highview Splash

12           Tinahue Papone

14           Extra Gain

5-4          Undulation

4              Magical Sapphire 

Heat 9

11-4       Innfield Destiny 

25           Chiefs Sydney

6              Ballybough Nutz

4-5          Ballymac Danica

8              Farney Chime

6              Robbies Galaxy

Heat 10

9-2          Radical Scoby

3              Randolph Scotts

11-8       Droopys Bookem

5              Droopys Carbine

5              Down To Buisness

16           Glitzy Magic

Heat 11

5              House Martin

5              Bockos Crystal

7              Bubbly Shadow

EV           Callaway Knegare

16           Keefill Maverick

3              Tarnsa Maasai 

Heat 12

11-8       Da Bold Falcon

5              Ballymac Finn

9-4          High Trend

7-2          Clona Duke

25           Casa Miro

14           Esmonde Swift 

Heat 13

6              Coolavanny Otto

8              Ventry Faith

25           Air Flyer

4              Ower Cracker

3              Carmac King

EVS        Bombay Pat

Saturday, October 19^th

Heat 14

6              Castleivy Ginge

3              Ballymac Briar

5-2          Phoenix Memphis

6              Deelish Nora

9-4          Droopys Supply

6              Tivoli Milo 

Heat 15

12           Crescent Emily

11-4       Tuono Charlie

8              Poets Dawn

6              Scooby Pacemaker

4              Short Grip

11-10     Boylesports Bob 

Heat 16

9-2          Miami King

4              Syd Zafiro

20           Burgess Supreme

10           Bredas Wood

33           Rough Rocco

4-9          March On Freddie 

Heat 17

4              Faypoint Harvey

14           Riverside Scotch

12           Tempestade

8              Southwood Stan

10           Elite Josh

4-9          Tribal Syd 

Heat 18

11-10     Hawkfield Blue

7-2          Ballymac Gizmo

10           Swords Don

33           Sundance Shirley

3              Yorkie Ollie

4              Deadly Disco 

Heat 19

6              Ballyhooly Bruno

9-2          Scooby The Boss

3              Grangeclare Lady

5-4          Neko Harbour

4              Mustang Fever

33           Crokers Rocker 

Heat 20

1-2          De Lahdadah

16           Val Tashadelek

10           Ardera Sam

20           Deanos Bay

7-2          Dashing Toro

5              Ballinabola Jim 

Heat 21

16           Harlequin Dublin

8              Arthur Cornflake

5-2          Rapido Bob

6              May Bozada

14           Dromana Dano

4-6          Knockeen Dazzler

Heat 22

10           Astra Fairy

25           Pivotal Time

8-11       Untold Dollar

4              Droopys Avatar

6              Hot Wood

4              Glengar Martha 

Heat 23

7-4          Born To Perform

6-4          Carrick Keano

4              Bonkersinyonkers

6              Clonfert Annie

14           Fireheight Kane

12           Fahy Hazel 

Heat 24

12           Bartley Cop

6              Neon Lights

20           Hello Sonny

4              In Good Time

5-2          Blackeyed Turbo

EV           Deadly Choice 

Heat 25

5              Prince Naseem

8              Quarry Boy

11-8       Romeo Taylor

4              Is She There

9-2          Hello Diego

5              Droopys Roar 

Heat 26

25           Roanna Bonnie

5-4          Crafty Shivoo

8              Ballyhimkin Leo

10           Benalmadena Puma

25           Not A Wink

10-11     Cheap Sandwiches