STAR SPORTS/TRC ENGLISH DERBY DRAW

Ian Fortune

The draw for the final of the Star Sports/ TRC English Derby draw was made yesterday afternoon at the Derby luncheon and it has thrown up a fascinating decider.

There is no doubt the draw has been kind to the certain favourite King Memphis but Ireland’s three representatives will have their chance after a relatively kind draw.

Ballymac Gizmo has been drawn in two for Liam Dowling. He is stepping forward with each run and will be looking to make his best start of the classic on Saturday night. If doing so, he could certainly outrun his odds. The powerful tracker is currently available at a rather large looking 16-1 with sponsors, Star Sports.

His kennel companion De Lahdedah has drawn four for the fourth time in this year’s Derby. He is seen by Star Sports as the main threat to King Memphis and is just 2-1 with Star Sports to come home in front. There is no doubt he will need to repeat his 3.94 sectional from the third round but, if doing so, could quickly look very big at his current odds.

Boylesports Bob will also have plenty of support. The Paul Hennessy trained powerhouse is perfectly housed in the stripes and is 6-1 to come out on top. He too needs to be at his sharpest but is blessed with incredible power and one suspects he could be one of the big market movers on the night.

King Memphis is currently available at 5-4 and will undoubtedly take some stopping, although any errors at trap rise would leave him vulnerable. Churchfield Syd has brilliant early speed and will look to set the pace. The 6-1 on offer about the Richard Rees trained star is also likely to attract punters. Whyaye Man is the rank outsider of the field in the red jacket. He is currently available at 20-1.

Star Sports/ TRC English Greyhound Derby

Final draw with sponsors betting

1 Whyaye Man (20-1)

2 Ballymac Gizmo (16-1)

3 King Memphis (5-4)

4 De Lahdedah (2-1)

5 Churchfield Syd (w) (6-1)

6 Boylesports Bob (w) (5-1)