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MORE FIREWORKS LIKELY AS OPENING ROUND OF DERBY CONCLUDES
After some superb racing on Friday night in the first session of opening round heats of the BOYLE Sports Irish Derby, it seems strange to suggest there is probably even better to come tonight as the round draws to a conclusion.
By the end of racing, we will certainly have seen the Derby champion in action but picking him or her out with any confidence is impossible at this early stage in proceedings. One thing is certain, there will be fireworks this evening before we finish up with the most outstanding closing heat.
HEAT-BY-HEAT GUIDE TO TONIGHT’S BOYLE SPORTS DERBY ACTION
Heat 13 – MONARCH CAN RULE
Sensational Kirby Memorial champion Bouncing Monarch has been at the head of the Derby market for some time and he is set to get his campaign off to a flying start in tonight’s opener, Heat 13.
The Michael O‘Donovan trained star boasts a record of one win from one start in Dublin, winning his semi-final of the Champion Stakes before a little cut forced his withdrawal from the final.
That setback only held him up for a matter of days and a stunning 27.82 trial a fortnight ago suggests he is ready to take the classic by storm. Ballymac Scheff and Newinn Spot are nominated as the main dangers but, in reality, both will need luck to worry the favourite.
Expect Bouncing Monarch to come away racing and assert in the early yards to emerge a comfortable winner. Ballymac Scheff will finish faster than any and is set to pick up Newinn Spot for second spot.
Heat 14 – GREEN LIGHT FOR COLOURS
Gold Cup champion Coloursaregreen is set to start favourite for Heat 14, although nothing will come easy for the Paul Hennessy trained star as he faces a number of rivals capable of playing a major role.
Gaytime Clyde performed well in the English Derby and is likely to come on for recent sighters at Shelbourne Park. He starts, stays and has the pace to win at the highest level. The same can be said for the powerful duo of Ballyhooly Bruno and Ballymac Altobel. The former probably isn’t the force he was in 2025 when claiming the Shelbourne Open 600 but Ballymac Altobel is immensely strong and could certain get involved if turning close.
Ardfert Sam boasts some superb southern form and can’t be ignored, while The Other Mel is lightly raced for her age and can come on for recent starts.
Coloursaregreen remains the choice, however. He has really taken to 550yds and clearly appreciates the extra yards into the bend. If starting on terms from his inside draw, he can show his class by bursting his way to the front into the bend before going on to make all. Hi near neighbour in two, Gaytime Clyde is seen as the main threat.
Heat 15 –WILLOW TO SHOW MORE PROGRESS
Mill Willow seems to be improving with each career outing but he will be severely tested in Heat 15 where he takes on some very fast ladies in the shape of Unassuming, Singalong Cherry and the in-form Avenue Queen.
Throw in the capable duo of Microchip and Kilcolgan Eddie and it’s a good contest.
Mill Willow is certainly going the right way for Barry Clancy, however. An impressive trap to line winner in 29.50 last time, he may go even faster. If doing so, he would be a tough nut to crack especially if seeing daylight in the early yards.
Unassuming is very fast but has been lightly raced in recent months. If she were to produce anything close to her best, she could really put it up to Mill Willow, while Avenue Queen has been running very well and has an ideal draw on the fence to make her challenge.
Heat 16 –FELIX WILL BE TESTED
After a brilliant 27.99 success over the standard trip in his latest outing, many will have their eyes on the lightly raced but clearly very talented Slippery Felix in Heat 16.
This is a considerably tougher test than anything he has faced before and, in just his fifth career start, will need to be on his toes.
His talented rivals include Maiden Derby champion Harvard Square, who will bid to get loose early, big finisher Coolemount Fame and proven performers Miami Hans and Priceless Romeo, both of which impressed in their latest outing.
Slippery Felix is less exposed than his rivals and has more cope for improvement. An inside draw is also likely to suit but this really is a wide-open affair. Slippery Felix is given the nod but there are any number of possible outcomes in this contest.
Heat 17 – COLEY TO APPRECIATE THE STEP UP IN TRIP
From the earlier days of Kapuka Coley’s career, it was clear he was going to be a real Shelbourne Park 550yd greyhound. With enough early speed to compete at the highest level, he is also very strong.
The fact that he is a wide seed will also play to his strengths as he seems likely to get his draw most nights.
That is exactly the case in Heat 17 where he is chosen to emerge on top for Karol Ramsbottom and owner Matt Dunne. His rivals include his early pace-kennel companion Sober Barry and the talented quartet of Bills Harbour, Droichead Nua, Ballymac Siun and Callaway Five but Kapuka Coley is up to the task.
After running a big race in second in the recent Puppy Derby decider, he is set to return to winning ways at the expense of Sober Barry, who is the most likely pace-setter, and the well housed Bills Harbour.
Heat 18 –DENIRO TO PLAY A STARRING ROLE IN DERBY
Ballymac Deniro was already a star ahead of his English Derby challenge but he really grew up through the UK’s blue riband, eventually finishing a close second to Lennies Eddie in the decider.
He returns to racing action in Heat 18 where he will start a hot favourite despite the presence of some very talented rivals.
His kennel companion Ballymac Hitman is set for a bright future and seems to be getting the hang of the game. He is an obvious danger, although he must come away racing if he is to turn close enough to threaten.
Miami Hyland has an ideal draw on the fence but needs to reproduce his very best form. Callaway Knegare may have a few grey hairs around his snout these days but the former Juvenile Derby champion and 2024 Derby third retains plenty of ability. If things were to go his way in the early yards, he too could get involved.
And then there are the pacey duo of Lone Calling and Lemon Hidalgo, both of which have plenty of fine form. It’s a stacked contest but Ballymac Deniro really does have all the qualities to go all the way in the Derby and he is chosen to follow up a recent impressive 29.21 spin over the 550yd trip by making all to see off his kennel mate Ballymac Hitman.
Heat 19 – KING DRAWN TO STAY UNBEATEN
Heat 19 is yet another hugely competitive contest with the draw likely to have a big say in the outcome.
Graham Holland is double handed with Metal King and Shotgun Dez, Pat Buckley send out the very talented Glengar Phantom and the field is completed by the consistent Sure Exile, the in-form Ryee and one of last year’s best youngsters Sawdust Barry.
Glengar Phantom has an ideal draw in the stripes and will look to match his rivals into the turn. If doing so, he can certainly make a bold bid. National Puppy Stake winner Shotgun Dez is undoubtedly a class act but has been very lightly raced in recent months. It will be interesting to see how he handles the 550yd trip.
Metal King is a tentative selection. After just two carer outings, he remains unbeaten. A winner around Cork on debut in March, he stepped up considerably on form to win a Derby Trial Stake in fine style last time, coming home clear in 29.48. A subsequent 28.16 trial suggests it was no fluke. He is chosen to race prominently before making full use of his inside line to assert.
Heat 20 – JAYKAY CAN FLY
Early speed could be the key to success for Jaykay Fly in Heat 20.
A Kirby Memorial finalist earlier in the year, he produced a big run to win over 550yds last time, coming home clear in 29.40. Given his tremendous early dash, he again looks the most likely pace-setter.
That should be enough for him to get the better of most of his rivals with the potential exception of Ballymac Charbel. The latter is hugely strong and will finish like a train. If he were to turn close to the pace, he would emerge a serious danger.
Of the remainder, Skywalker Bruno is best equipped to get involved but he will need to get first run on Jaykay Fly who remains a confident selection to make all the running.
Heat 21 – GROUCHOS TO BE CHIEF
Hackney Dancer was set to start a warm favourite for Heat 21 but Pat Buckley’s English Derby had to be withdrawn during the week. In his absence, and perhaps prior to the withdrawal, Grouchos Chief is nominated as the one to beat.
A young, exciting tracker with all manner of pace to the third turn, he has an ideal draw on the fence and the perfect platform to mount a bold bid. Of all the youngsters on show in the Derby, the November ’24 whelp has perhaps the highest ceiling and he is a confident choice to come out on top.
He was picked up late in his most recent outing over 550yds but ran a fine race for much of the way. In what is just his fifth career start, he is set to strengthen up and can make all to contain the likes of Crossfield Matt and Hackney Dancer.
Heat 22 – STAR TO SHINE BRIGHTEST
There may be limited evidence but Waitingforastar gives the impression that if things click in the coming weeks, he has the pace, strength and all-round ability to become a serious Derby challenger.
He will put his credentials to the test in Heat 22 where Produce Stakes champion Berlin Trilogy, the talented Slippery Brian and in-form duo of Carrigeen Whit and Gaytime Joachim will ensure a stern test.
None of those mentioned can be ignored but Waitingforastar is a true powerhouse and with a clear run around the opening two bends, seems likely to come to the fore. He is chosen to lead home Berlin Trilogy, who ran a big race in defeat last time.
Heat 23 – JAMES CAN REALLY MOVE
Much like his kennel companion Waitingforastar, Wi Can James has a huge engine and the ability to develop into a serious Derby challenger.
He is the one to beat in Heat 23, although there’s enough quality around him to ensure a fair test.
Sleight Of Hand is young, progressive and well housed on the fence. He is strong and is likely to get involved if avoiding traffic. Produce Stakes runner-up Droopys Winsome will stay on well and rarely finishes out of the frame, while both Supa Mac and The Other Eimear have the pace to figure if putting their best foot forward.
But Wi Can James has rare ability and one suspects the step up to 550yds will really play to his strengths. It’s not long ago since he posted a wonderful 27.88 for the 525yd trip. On that occasion, he put real daylight between himself and the chasers from the third turn. Expect another masterclass from the Pat Guilfoyle trained star.
Heat 24 –WHAT A WAY TO FINISH
The opening round of the Derby deserves a tremendous final heat to serve as the cherry on top.
And that is exactly what we have in Heat 24. Not only is the English Derby champion Lennies Eddie in the line-up but he takes on one of the joint favourites for Derby glory, the brilliant Ballymac Setanta and the brilliant 2025 Kirby Memorial champion Faypoint Ranger.
The flood of cash for Ballymac Setanta in the ante-post market in recent days suggests he is ready to go and is likely to start favourite. His previous form at Shelbourne Park also highlights the fact that he has all the qualities to become a Derby champion, although this is no easy starting point.
Lennies Eddie was outstanding in the English Derby, improving and perhaps growing up with each outing through the classic. He was left badly at traps in the Dundalk International but has been reported in great shape by his legendary handler Paul Hennessy.
And then we have Faypoint Ranger. Few can match him for early speed and he seems certain to race prominently from the outset. If he were to get to the front, he is a tough nut to crack. BallymacCmax and Amidus Hulk have also shown a high level of form but really are up against it in this company.
IN what is potentially one of the match-ups of the round, Ballymac Setanta is just chosen over Lennies Eddie and Faypoint Ranger but this contest will ensure that no one goes home early.
******
DIAMOND TAKES THE HEADLINE DESPITE A DOWLING HAT TRICK
The BOYLE Sports Irish Derby kicked off on Friday night at a rather splendid Shelbourne Park.
Under bright sunshine, those with Derby aspirations produced some superb performances, although the headlines went to a familiar name.
Liam Dowling did all he could to steal the headlines, sending out no fewer than three winners with Solo And Go and Ballymac Gwennie going fastest and second fastest on the card, but 2024 Derby champion Bockos Diamond ensured himself top billing by emerging a tremendous winner of a red-hot Heat 10.
As you would expect, there was a great reception for the stunning son of Dorotas Wildcat. All in all, it was a wonderful night of racing action with plenty catching the eye, both in victory and defeat. Below is a heat-by-heat guide of how proceedings went.
Heat 1 – CLIFF IN CONTROL
Ballyhooly Cliff, owned by the Ashgrove Trio, emerged a comfortable winner of the opening heat, albeit with a little help at the third turn as Roarin Ogara was clipped from behind when still in a strong position on the inside of the track.
Roarin Ogara flew from the inside box to lead early but Ballyhooly Cliff charged into the turn and ran a fine bend to pass Certificate to go second. This set up a wonderful tussle between the front two into the third turn, but Certificate also tried to get involved.
As the last named attempted to challenge up the inside, he clipped the heels of Roarin Ogara, who did remarkably well to maintain his balance, but Ballyhooluy Cliff was gone. Seeing his opportunity, the Tom O’Neill trained son of Orcestrate and Lemon Tilda kicked on before charging up the straight to win by an ever-increasing seven lengths in 29.46. Roarin Ogara was second with Magical Jet just a half length back in third. Kevinsfort Fancy was the fourth qualifier.
Heat 2 – FIRST HOLDS ON AT THE POST
Josie Burns’ Firstpastthepost was an aptly named winner of Heat 2 as he held the flying finish of Grouchos Frank by a rapidly diminishing head.
The Paul Matthews trained son of Good Cody and Portumna Marina was electric in the early yards, shooting to the front long before the turn.
He was allowed increase his advantage at this point with a few of the others bumping but Grouchos Frank did manage to slip around second. Firstpasthepost had a big lead to halfway but was always going to tire on the run in.
Thankfully for his supporters, the line came in time for Firstpastthepost as he held off his rival in 29.55. There were eight lengths to Downtothewire in third with Brayview Lad also progressing.
Heat 3 – NORMAN BACK ON THE HORSE
It had been a while since Kilcolgan Norman last won a race in December ’25 but he opened his 2026 account in tremendous fashion, getting to the front early in Heat 3 to win for Neilus O’Connell and Karen Geoghegan.
The son of Dromana Bucko and Razldazl Annie looked sharp as he took charge in the early yards from Faypoint Harvey. The latter stuck with the leader for much of the way but tired off the final turn. Instead, the fast-finishing Timmys Bucks came through for second but there was no stopping Kilcolgan Norman as he went on to win by a length and a half in 29.55. Faypoint Harvey was another length adrift with Galloping Jack fourth.
Heat 4 – SILENT BUT DEADLY
Silent Noelle was a determined winner of Heat 4 when running down Droopys Monk in a tremendous finish.
It was actually Silent Noelle that went to the front in the early yards but Droopys Monk displayed awesome peace to challenge and head his rival on the turn.
The pair bumped at this point, losing momentum but managed to stay at the head of affairs. Droopy Monk flew to halfway to increase his advantage to over three lengths but Silent Noelle loomed large in his wingmirrors as they hit the third turn.
As the remainder in behind, got in each other’s way, it was clear the winner was going to come from the front two. Droopys Monk began to tire as they swung for home and Silent Noelle took her opportunity. Staying on well, the Nolan, Mullins, Ahern Syndicate owned daughter of Newinn Taylor and Terezas Mendoza came through to win by three parts of a length in 29.78. Razldazl Thelma finished fast to pick up Droopys Monk for second with the pair separated by a short head. Uncle Keith qualified in fourth.
Heat 5 – SOLO WENT GO
The race to the turn was always going to be vital in Heat 5 and it was Solo And Go that won the battle and the race itself.
Lennies Dynamic was a hot favourite in the stripes but produced a moderate start before roaring into the bend.
Solo And Go had the rails pitch, however, and had no intention of allowing his lead slip. Sticking tight to the fence and running a purposeful bend, the speedy son of Ballymac Best and Ballymac Minton maintained his lead into the back straight.
Lennies Dynamic and Roaming Shelby did all they could to close the gap but Solo And Go is more than just an ‘early pacer’. Indeed, the Liam Dowling trained star dug in deep to repel the late challenge of Lennies Dynamic by three parts of a length in 29.27. Roaming Shelby was another two lengths adrift. Croydon Avenger was best of the remainder.
Heat 6 – KAMALA MADE TO WORK HARD
Brilliant Champion Stakes winner Ballymac Kamala may have been one of the hottest favourites of the round at 1-5 in Heat 6 but she was forced to pull out all the stops to get to the front before holding off the late challenge of Barntick Bucko.
Hackney Randox broke smartly from four but was soon challenged by Ballymac Kamala. The pair raced side by side into the back straight with Ballymac Kamala only narrowly avoiding getting clipped on the heels by Barntick Bucko.
She would ease into a narrow lead by halfway but Blastoff Heffo arrived with a rush into the third turn to challenge. He then found a little traffic, allowing room up the inside for Barntick Bucko to take up the pursuit. Ballymac Kamala did stay on well to complete a double for Liam Dowling, although she needed the line as Barntick Bucko was finishing at speed.
The pair were separated by just a half length in 29.58 with Blastoff Heffo three lengths further back in third. Paulstown Cash also progressed.
Heat 7 – ORIENTAL IS KING
Oriental King certainly threw his hat into the Derby ring in Heat 7 showing great pace and strength to come from behind two very fast trackers in Hackney Plan and Ballycowen Frank.
Hackney Plan got first run on the field, flashing from four to set a searching gallop.
His kennel companion Ballycowen Frank turned second and looked a serious danger but Oriental King put himself into a perfect position to strike in third for the Organised Chaos Syndicate and handler Denise Ryan.
Ballycowen Frank chose to make his move around the outside at the third turn but it wasn’t meant to be as Hackney Plan repelled his challenge. Meanwhile, Oriental King was close in third and making full use of the space on the inside of the track.
The powerfully built son of Coolavanny Hoffa and Newinn Willow began to close before launching a late and decisive move. Going second on the final turn, he set his sights on Hackney Plan before getting up late to win by half length in 29.38. Hackney Plan was second with Ballycowen Frank a length away in third. Mydras Opinion also finished fast to sit just a half length further back in fourth.
Heat 8 – WARRIOR SHOWS HIS SPEED
Pat Buckey sent out the first two home in Heat 8, although it was the bigger priced of the pair, Ballyea Warrior that emerged on top.
This was all about brute early speed from the talented son of Ballymac Kingdom and Wolfofallstreets.
Shooting from five, he was always in front. Glengar Kane overcame a tricky draw inm two to turn second and did close on the run in but Ballyea Warrior was not for catching despite drifting wide on the final turn.
Glengar Kane continued to close to the line but the Hackney Boys Syndicate owned Ballyea Warrior returned after a layoff to win at the first attempt for his new kennel by a half length in 29.40. Highview Excel was three lengths further back in third, followed by Swords Style.
Heat 9 – PROFILE SHOWS THE WAY
The Graham Holland trained Low Profile returned to winning ways in Heat 9, showing all his many qualities to see off recent Puppy Derby champion Im Here.
The latter made a poor start from six, sitting last into the bend, and was always playing catch-up.
In contrast, the R, T & C Syndicate owned Low Profile was sharp at traps and led the field from the opeing stride. Lennies Jamesmac arrived with a rush into the turn to challenge but steered a middle path, allowing Low Profile to increase his advantage once again.
It was all one-way traffic thereafter with Low Profile never going to be picked up. Im Here did show outstanding pace into the third turn to go second after his tardy start but Low Profile ran right to the line to win by three lengths in 29.40. Im Here ran a big race in second with another two lengths to Lennies Jamesmac in third. Mona Lee Monbeg flew home to grab fourth in the final strides.
Heat 10 – DIAMOND STILL SHINING BRIGHT
“There is still life in the old dog”.
That was the line used after Bockos Diamond came home in front in Heat 10 – the hottest of the round. This was a display that generated the biggest cheer of the night as Bockos Diamond cleared his kennel companion and namesake Bockos Gold on the opening turn to shoot clear.
The sensational 2024 Derby champion was popular in the ring and his many supporters would have been in clover from the early yards. After breaking on terms, the Graham Holland trained superstar soon displayed some of his trademark early speed to get first run on his rivals.
Bockos Gold was within a length to the turn but Bockos Diamond was determined. Driving the bend in the manner of a greyhound with plenty still to give, he shot clear of the field. To loud cheers from the crowd, he moved into a decisive lead by halfway.
Getup The Boy made the most of an inside draw to turn second but was never going to get to the leader. Despite this, he flew to the third turn to close the gap considerably before staying on well in second. Bockos Diamond would take the headlines, however. The brilliant son of Dorotas Wildcat and Seaglass Shadow was the most popular winner of the night as he saw off an eye-catching Getup The Boy by two lengths in 29.40. Harlequin Gee Up and Bockos Gold would dead-heat for third some seven lengths further back.
Heat 11 – SPECIAL RUN FROM BOMBAY
Bombay Special was back to her best in Heat 11, making the most of an ideal draw in the stripes to see off two other talented members of the fairer sex Ballydoyle Tina and Droopys Faithful.
The key to this race was the clear passage Bombay Special received into the turn as Droopys Faithful moved inwards from trap five, squeezing up Ballydoyle Tina in the process. Despite this, the three bitches were first, second and third into the bend.
Droopys Faithful took a stride for herself on the turn, allowing Ballydoyle Tina to slip around in second but Bombay Special was on a mission up front. Droopys Faithful attempted to recover down the back straight, showing great pace into the third turn but she again had to check her stride.
Bombay Special went on to score for Graham Holland and Jack Ryan with the daughter of Dromana Bucko and Tory Aria winning by three lengths in 29.59. Ballydoyle Tina just held the late run of Droopys Faithful by a half-length to take second. Gaytime Teco was the fourth qualifier.
Heat 12 –GWENNIE SIMPLY TOO GOOD
Ballymac Gwennie justified short odds in the final heat to complete a notable treble on the card for Liam Dowling.
The Champion Plate winner had a favourable draw in the stripes but a flying start ensured her supporters a stress-free passage.
Once in front after trap rise, the result was never really in doubt. KIlwest Major did threaten briefly at the third turn but Ballymac Gwennie is very strong and she kicked again. The daughter of Ballymac Finn and Ballymac Arminta came home three and a half lengths clear in 29.31. Behind her, Razldazl Loreal ran a big race to take second, while In The Sunset finished like a train in third, just two lengths adrift. Kilwest Major progressed in fourth.
******
THE DERBY JOURNEY STARTS TONIGHT
The weeks of speculation, anticipation and hype leading up the start of the BOYLE Sports Derby has really got the blood pumping.
And tonight owners, breeders, trainers, handler, layers and punters will be glad to see the 2026 renewal of the classic get underway at Shelbourne Park.
A total of twelve heats will make up the first session of opening round heats and the resulting action will be enthralling. A four-to-qualify scenario seems to create a false narrative that all the big guns will be safe but, year after year, there is real drama on the opening weekend and, have little doubt, a few well-fancied greyhounds will fail to secure their passage into the second round.
To all those with a vested interest in a greyhound in this year’s Derby, the very best of luck. Lets hope for another sensational Derby and roll on September 12th.
HEAT-BY-HEAT GUIDE TO TONIGHT’S BOYLE SPORTS DERBY ACTION
Heat 1 – CLIFF CHOSEN TO SEE OFF DREAM
The Derby commences with a fascinating contest. In the absence of a hot favourite, the eye is drawn to Lennies Dream and Ballyhooly Cliff.
The former impressed on this corresponding weekend last year, winning her opening round assignment in 29.37.
Incredibly, that was her last career win, although she did run well through the classic, eventually going out in the quarter finals behind eventual winner Cheap Sandwiches. A good starter with plenty of strength, she has shown signs of a return to her brilliant best in recent weeks and is seen as a huge player.
However, the nod goes to Ballyhooly Cliff. A bright prospect with a wonderful all-round game, he starts, stays and is young enough to improve further. He was out of luck in his latest outing over the Derby trip but missed the kick on that occasion and is capable of far better.
Of the others, Roarin Ogara was in the process of running a big race only to find bad traffic on the turn last week. If repeating his 3.38 sectional, he would emerge as a contender. Magical Jet is also respected, although he too needs to be at his very sharpest from trap two with fast starters on his flanks.
Heat 2 – ELLO CAN SECURE FIRST RUN
Brendan Matthews sends out Downtothewire and Ello Ello in Heat 2 with both capable of going close. Downtothewire is inconsistent at the traps but certainly has the pace to play a part if finding a way to turn close from an inside draw.
Ello Ello is also a little inconsistent at boxes but is capable of motoring into the bend. If he were to repeat his very best form, he would make a bold bid.
Grouchos Frank posted a quick 29.39 for 550yds in his penultimate outing. He was subsequently caught a little flat-footed over 575yds but is clearly one with obvious claims, especially if finding a start. Firstpastthepost is likely to go up fast and is a potential pace-setter. .he may be vulnerable from the third turn but could well be stronger then when last seen at Shelbourne over four bends.
Brayview Lad and Foulkscourt Cody are no back-numbers either in one of the most open contests of the round but Ello Ello is selected to produce one of his better starts and turn close to the pace. In such a scenario, he would be hard to contain.
Heat 3 – CASH CAN BE KING
Old meets young at the head of the market for Heat 3.
Faypoint Harvey has danced every dance over recent years and continues to run with enthusiasm. A fast starter, he rarely runs a bad race but he has to take on the promising Aulton Cash.
The latter seems to love the Dublin air and boasts some fine form around Shelbourne Park. If starting on terms, which seems very likely going on his previous form, he can quickly emerge as a leading contender.
While the pair will dominate the market, neither are certain to get loose of each other. If there is to be a bigger priced winner, the thoroughly likeable and talented Timmys Bucks never runs a bad race and could play a part if coming away racing from five.
Heat 4 – NOELLE TO SHOW HER CLASS
There is real quality on show in Heat 4 where Ballymac Ralf makes his Dublin debut.
Everything he has shown to this point in his career suggests he is a real Shelbourne Park type hound but he will still need to be at his very sharpest with some very talented rivals to contend with.
These include Silent Noelle, who was a fine winner over the Derby trip last time. She can really move into the turn and seems certain to have a big say. Droopys Monk is very young and blessed with exceptional early dash.
At this early point in his career, 550yds stretches him but he is going to strengthen up for racing and is perhaps the most likely pace-setter from four. Razldazl Thelma has fine pace throughout and boasts a 28.09 return for 525yds, while both Coolemount Spy and Uncle Keith will be finishing at speed.
With conditions likely to be lively, it might pay to side with one of the speedsters and, from the draw, the nod goes to Silent Noelle. Ballymac Ralf is a serious threat, especially if turning close from an inside draw while Droopys Monk is also expected to have a big say.
Heat 5 – LENNIES NEEDS TO BE DYNAMIC AGAINST SOLO
The bookends are the big two in Heat 5.
In red, Solo And Go is aptly named as he can really go but he faces a worthy adversary in Lennies Dynamic, who is drawn in six. In fact, the latter seems certain to start a warm favourite and it is no shock given the impressive nature of his latest victory.
The Paul Hennessy trained speedster has long given the impression he could develop into a superstar with the longer run to the turn over 550yds only helping. He will need to be at his liveliest in the opening yards but is chosen to challenge Solo And Go to the turn before asserting into the back straight.
Both Solo And Go and Lennies Dynamic are capable of going deep in the classic and could prove too hot for their rivals, although Roaming Shelby is on the upgrade and would be a player if somehow finding a way to match Solo And Go to the turn. Croydon Avenger is also very talented but a trap four draw is far from ideal. Lennies Dynamic is chosen to lead home Solo And Go and Roaming Shelby.
Heat 6 – KAMALA TOO HOT TO HANDLE
There will be shorter priced favourite in the opening round than Champion Stakes champion Ballymac Kamala.
She really does look the part in Heat 6 where she can make every inch from am okay draw in trap three.
A fast starter with outstanding pace throughout, expect Liam Dowling’s star to further cement her status as one of the best in the business. Blastoff Heffo is rarely out of the frame and is chosen to come home in second, albeit well behind Ballymac Kamala.
Heat 7 – FRANK TO CONTINUE HIS INCREDIBLE RUN OF FORM
Ballycowen Frank will be a hot favourite in the very next heat.
There is scarcely a performer in world greyhound racing on a better run of form than the Michael O’Donovan trained star. In recent times he has won both the Dundalk International and Race of Champions, both in record breaking times.
If finding another slick exit, it seems safe to expect him to go very fast again. Drawn in three, he really should have too much ammunition for his rivals which include his talented kennel companion Hackney Plan and the rapidly progressive Oriental King. Throw in the Shelbourne 600 champion Mydras Opinion and it’s a fine line-up but Ballycowen Frank can come home alone yet again.
Heat 8 – STYLE TO GET FIRST RUN
All eyes will be on the inside of the track in Heat 8 where Swords Style and Glengar Kane dominate the betting.
The pair line up side by side in traps one and two and much will come down to the start. Glengar Kane has a very tricky draw with Swords Style expected to edge off the fence and Jacktavern Bull likely to cut inwards from three.
That could leave Glengar Kane as themeat in the sandwich. He has the quality to overcome the draw but it won’t be easy. For that reason, Swords Style, who boasts some superb Shelbourne form is chosen to get off the front before producing a typically determined effort to contain his rivals.
Heat 9 – HERE TO MAKE AN IMPACT
Recent Puppy Derby champion Im Here has a perfect draw in the stripes in Heat 9 but won’t be handed anything on a silver platter.
In what is his first outing over the 550yd trip, the Peter Cronin trained star will need to do things right at boxes to put himself in position to justify favouritism.
That shouldn’t be a problem but any mistakes would leave the door open to some talented rivals including Low Profile and Lee Strand winner Music Inthe Air. The progressive Lennies Jamesmac is also respected but Im Here has the potential to be a serious Derby challenger and is chosen to show just what he is capable of. While it is his first run over the Derby trip, he has all the qualities to suggest the extended distance will realty play to his strengths.
Heat 10 – CAN DIAMOND SHINE IN HOTTEST CONTEST
Heat 10 is without doubt the hottest of the round.
Indeed, it would be a fitting line-up for a Derby quarter or semi-final, such is the quality on show.
2024 Derby champion Bockos Diamond is clearly the most intriguing runner in the line-up and may well start favourite but the opposition won’t hand him the victory.
Bockos Gold, a younger kennel companion to Bockos Diamond, is a serious threat after returning to his brilliant best last time when clocking a rapid 29.07. Weighing in at a whopping 85lbs or slightly bigger at times, he shouldn’t be able to leave the boxes like he does but he is a real pro when on form.
Blessed with huge pace throughout, he is capable of winning a Derby if things go right and he is likely to have a big say. 2025 Juvenile Derby champ Getup The Boy is perfectly drawn on the fence and doesn’t know how to run a bad race. He is also capable of getting involved.
Slick Sanctuary was a finalist in the recent Puppy Derby. He missed the kick on that occasion, but can fly to the turn, while Glengar Silent was a finalist last year and will be finishing faster than any if stepping up on recent trial form. Harlequin Gee Up completes the line-up and he too has the early speed to race prominently, although he is a big price to land a shock success.
It’s a wonderful line-up but Bockos Diamond remains a force. He may not by the same stellar being we witnessed through his Derby campaign in 2024 but he is certainly good enough to win this contest and he gets the vote ahead of Bockos Gold and Getup The Boy.
Heat 11 – TINA AIMING TO BE SIMPLY THE BEST
The flying females are set to come to the fore in Heat 11 where Ballydoyle Tina is likely to start a hot favourite after a recent superb comeback run.
Her task is far from straightforward, however, as her rivals include Droopys Faithful, Bombay Special and two-time Derby quarter finalist and near veteran Cheque For Cash.
Ballydoyle Tina is drawn in four and a repeat of her latest flying start, when posting a 3.35 sectional, would see her quickly seize control. Droopys Faithful is really top class but has been lightly raced in recent months. An 18.38 sprint trial highlights her well-being and she is nominated as the main danger, while Bombay Special and Cheque For Cash are both capable of having a big say if returning to form.
Heat 12 – PORTER WITH STOUT CHANCES
The ladies can also have a huge say in the final heat of the session with Ballymac Gwennie likely to start favourite, while Razldazl Loreal is well housed in one and may also attract plenty of support.
Improving puppy Droopys Porter will be bidding to upset his female rivals, however.
The Barry Clancy trained youngster was superb in his latest outing, flying from boxes to make all in 29.35. It was perhaps a sign of things to come and he just gets the nod over the Champion Plate winner Ballymac Gwennie. Razldazl Loreal is perhaps the value alternative to the pair from a kind draw on the fence. Kilwest Major is perhaps best equipped of the remainder to cause a slight shock but he must find a way to turn close to the pace.
******
SETANTA A BIG DERBY MOVER WITH SPONSORS
There was a major mover in the sponsor’s ante-post market for the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby in the past hours with Ballymac Setanta now backed into joint favouritism at 8-1.
Only yesterday we suggested that Bouncing Monarch was almost certain to go off favourite but he has been joined by Ballymac Setanta after some significant support.
Indeed, Ballymac Setanta wasn’t even the shortest priced ‘Ballymac’ runner up to yesterday with Ballymac Deniro the 12-1 second choice ahead of his kennel companion at 14s. But after this latest move, Ballymac Setanta was cut to 10-1 before further support came for the brilliant tracker, who hasn’t been seen since his elimination from the English Derby.
The Kirby Memorial and Laurels finalist is now a ‘significant loser’ for BOYLE Sports according to their greyhound racing maestro, Damien Lonergan.
MOVES IN SPECIALS MARKETS
Lonergan also reported good money for Ballydoyle Tina in the ‘Top Bitch’ market, suggesting “the only one they want to know in the top bitch market is Ballydoyle Tina. We’ve seen a good few bets come in on her”.
Damien also had his finger on the pulse earlier in the week, noting while watching the action at Shelbourne Park on Tuesday that the track was running well. As a result, the odds of the track record being broken before the end of the Derby have been cut to 7-2 from 4-1.
******
HACKNEY CORNER OUT OF DERBY
English Derby finalist Hackney Corner was yesterday withdrawn from the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby before a blow was struck.
The Pat Buckley trained star was set to race from trap five in Heat 21 but a reserve is now likely to take his place.
Given the fact that reserves may be needed on Friday, a replacement for the talented son of Here Comes Syd won’t be named until after Saturday’s weigh in.
******
MONARCH SET TO START FAVOURITE
With the start of the BOYLE Sports Derby less than 48 hours away, Bouncing Monarch looks certain to start the ante-post favourite with the sponsors.
As we publish these words, he just 8-1 to come out on top on September 12th and many will feel there is juice in that price if producing his best form in the coming weeks.
English Derby runner-up Ballymac Deniro is next in at 12-1, while there are a whole host of stars behind him at 14-1. These include Ballycowen Frank, Ballydoyle Tina, Ballymac Setanta and Lennies Dynamic. English Derby hero Lennies Eddie sits on his own at 16-1 with Bockos Gold and Puppy Derby champion Im Here at 20-1.
To highlight the incredible strength at the top end of the market, sensational 2024 Derby champion Bockos Diamond is one of five greyhounds at 25-1. He is joined on that mark by Ballymac Ralf, Champion Stakes winner Ballymac Kamala, Wi Can James, Solo And Go and Waitingforastar. The top half of the market can be seen below.
BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby
BOYLE Sports bet:
8 Bouncing Monarch
12 Ballymac Deniro
14 Ballydoyle Tina
14 Ballymac Setanta
14 Ballycowen Frank
14 Lennies Dynamic
16 Lennies Eddie
20 Bockos Gold
20 Im Here
25 Ballymac Ralf
25 Ballymac Kamala
25 Wi Can James
25 Solo And Go
25 Waitingforastar
25 Bockos Diamond
33 Hackney Corner
33 Glengar Kane
33 Grouchos Chief
33 Getup The Boy
33 Droopys Porter
33 Shotgun Dez
33 Roaming Shelby
40 Slick Sanctuary
40 Ballymac Hitman
40 Kapuka Coley
40 Slippery Felix
40 Ballymac Gwennie
50 Music Inthe Air
50 Silent Noelle
50 Hackney Plan
50 Glengar Silent
50 Droopys Faithful
50 Miami Hans
50 Grouchos Frank
50 Metal King
50 Jaykay Fly
50 Gaytime Clyde
66 Low Profile
66 Ballymac Charbel
66 Callaway Five
66 Lennies Dream
66 Coolemount Fame
66 Lennies Jamesmac
66 Swords Style
66 Sleight Of Hand
66 Ballymac Scheff
66 Droopys Monk
66 Skywalker Bruno
66 Priceless Romeo
66 Gaytime Joachim
66 Gaytime Teco
66 Hackney Dancer
66 Unassuming
66 The Other Mel
66 Kilwest Major
66 Oriental King
66 Callaway Knegare
66 Miami Hyland
66 Crossfield Matt
66 Mill Willow
66 Ello Ello
66 Coloursaregreen
66 Newinn Spot
100 BAR
******
DERBY SPECIAL TIME
Once again, sponsors BOYLE Sports have been busy putting together a long list of special bets ahead of the start of the Derby.
There is the usual Top Bitch market which is headed by the talented duo of Champion Stakes winner Ballymac Kamala and Ballydoyle Tina with both available at 4-1, while Champion Plate winner Ballymac Gwennie is 6-1.
There is also a price about the track record falling through the competition. It currently stands at 28.94 after the sensational efforts of Bockos Diamond in 2024. Those keeping an eye on the Shelbourne results may have noticed that the track was very lively on Tuesday night. Damien Lonergan was obviously aware of the fact as the record to be broken ahead of September 12th is just 4-1. It will need something very special to break 28.94 but there are some true superstars in this year’s Derby so never say never.
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.
There are fewer wide seeds than last year. In 2025 it was 4-6 about a wide seed emerging on top, while this year it is 5-4. A rails seed to win is just 8-11, with 10-1 on offer about those carrying an ‘M’.
There are also a number of other markets including winning trainer. If you want to back a greyhound to go furthest from one of the kennels with multiple entries you can also do so. A full list of all the specials can be seen below:
BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby - Top Bitch?
4 Ballymac Kamala
4 Ballydoyle Tina
6 Ballymac Gwennie
8 Silent Noelle
12 Droopys Faithful
14 Lennies Dream
14 Razldazl Thelma
14 Razldazl Loreal
16 The Other Mel
16 Unassuming
20 Ballymac Altobel
20 Ballymac Siun
20 Lone Calling
25 Bombay Special
25 The Other Eimear
25 Singalong Cherry
25 Carrigeen Whit
25 Ballymac Cmax
33 Callaway Fia
40 Ballymac Jetaway
40 Leamaneigh Godes
40 Avenue Queen
100 Frisky Ruby
Winning Trainer
6-4 Graham Holland
7-4 Liam Dowling
5-2 Michael J O'Donovan
4 Paul Hennessy
8 Pat Buckley
12 Patrick Guilfoyle
12 Karol Ramsbottom
12 Gary Dempsey
16 Brendan Matthews
16 Barry Clancy
20 Jennifer O'Donnell
25 Owen McKenna
33 Mark Robinson
33 Laurence Jones
40 Dolores Ruth
40 Shaun Conway
40 Tom O'Neill
50 Gerry Holian
100 Scott Phelan
100 Liam O Rourke
Track Record To Be Broken During The Derby?
4 Yes (28.94 current track record)
Winning Seed?
8-11 Rails
10 Middle
5-4 Wide
A Bitch To Win The Derby?
4 Yes
Derby Winner To Go Unbeaten Through Competition
7 Yes
A Greyhound To Win The Derby Without Winning A Heat?
33 Yes
A Bitch To Reach The Derby Final
EVS Yes
A Greyhound To Make The Final Without Winning A Heat?
6-4 Yes
Top Liam Dowling Trained Runner
3 Ballymac Setanta
3 Ballymac Deniro
4 Ballymac Kamala
4 Ballymac Gwennie
6 Solo And Go
12 Ballymac Charabel
16 Ballymac Siun
16 Ballymac Altobel
16 Ballymac Hitman
20 Ballymac Scheff
25 Ballymac Edith
Top Graham Holland Trained Runner
4 Ballydoyle Tina
4 Bockos Gold
6 Bockos Diamond
8 Roaming Shelby
10 Slippery Felix
10 Shotgun Dez
12 Low Profile
12 Newinn Spot
14 Gaytime Clyde
16 Swords Style
20 Faypoint Ranger
20 Metal King
25 Slippery Brian
25 Gaytime Joachim
25 Gaytime Teco
25 Bombay Special
33 Romeo Alliance
33 Faypoint Harvey
Top Michael J O'Donovan Trained Runner
4-5 Bouncing Monarch
2 Ballycowen Frank
10 Hackney Plan
10 Lone Calling
14 Hackney Dancer
14 Skywalker Bruno
14 Berlin Trilogy
Top Paul Hennessy Trained Runner
7-4 Lennies Dynamic
6-4 Lennies Eddie
6 Jaykay Fly
8 Coloursaregreen
8 Priceless Romeo
10 Lennies Dream
10 Lennies Jamesmac
25 Supa Mac
25 Cracking Cody
******
BOYLE SPORTS PRICE UP ALL 24 DERBY HEATS
Sponsors BOYLE Sports were quick off the mark to price up all 24 heats of the opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.
As you would expect there are a number of odds-on chances but there are also some very open contests.
Shortest priced favourite over the two nights is Ballymac Kamala, the Champion Stakes winner. Liam Dowling’s starlet is just 1-4 to emerge triumphant in Heat 6, while her kennel companion Ballymac Deniro is also very short to win Heat 18. The English Derby runner-up is 1-2 from an ideal draw in the stripes.
The Michael O’Donovan trained duo of Bouncing Monarch and Ballycowen Frank are also very short for their respective opening round assignments. Kirby champion Bouncing Monarch is 1-3 to win Heat 13, while Ballycowen Frank is 8-15 for Heat 7.
As you would expect there are also a few that seem too big in the betting so get studying and perhaps find some of the value on offer. The full breakdown of the 24 heats with the prices in trap order can be seen below.
BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby – Opening round
BOYLE Sports bet:
Friday’s Heats
Heat 1
9-2 Roarin Ogara
5 Magical Jet
7-4 Lennies Dream
10 Certificate
16 Kevinsfort Fancy
7-4 Ballyhooly Cliff
Heat 2
4 Downtothewire
6 Firstpastthepost
10 Brayview Lad
2 Grouchos Frank
7-4 Ello Ello
10 Foulkscourt Cody
Heat 3
7-4 Faypoint Harvey
16 Frisky Ruby
7-4 Aulton Cash
12 Galloping Jack
4 Timmys Bucks
5 Kilcolgan Norman
Heat 4
2 Ballymac Ralf
2 Silent Noelle
6 Razldazl Thelma
10-3 Droopys Monk
12 Coolemount Spy
8 Uncle Keith
Heat 5
9-4 Solo And Go
5 Roaming Shelby
33 Ballymac Jetaway
6 Croydon Avenger
25 Fun Inthe Dark
4-5 Lennies Dynamic
Heat 6
16 Barntick Bucko
8 Blastoff Heffo
1-4 Ballymac Kamala
10 Hackney Randox
12 Callaway Fia
12 Paulstown Cash
Heat 7
8 Vivaro Warrior
25 Kerryroad Al
8-15 Ballycowen Frank
4 Hackmey Plan
6 Oriental King
8 Mydras Opinion
Heat 8
EVS Swords Style
11-8 Glengar Kane
5 Jacktavern Bull
20 Highview Excel
10 Ballyea Warrior
50 Kuma Abdu
Heat 9
3 Low Profile
12 Fleeting Moment
33 Mona Lee Monbeg
5 Music Inthe Air
5 Lennies Jamesmac
4-5 Im Here
Heat 10
5 Getup The Boy
25 Harlequin Gee Up
6 Slick Sanctuary
13-8 Bockos Gold
13-8 Bockos Diamond
8 Glengar Silent
Heat 11
33 Clonfert Teddy
8 Cheque For Cash
8 Gaytime Teco
8-13 Ballydoyle Tina
7-2 Droopys Faithful
6 Bombay Special
Heat 12
9-2 Razldazl Loreal
20 Gaston
5-2 Droopys Porter
10 Romeo Alliance
7 Kilwest Major
1-1 Ballymac Gwennie
Saturday’s Heats
Heat 13
9-2 Ballymac Scheff
1-3 Bouncing Monarch
50 Goldmine Diamond
4 Newinn Spot
25 Cracking Cody
25 Leameneigh Godes
Heat 14
5-4 Coloursaregreen
5-2 Gaytime Clyde
6 The Other Mel
8 Ballyhooly Bruno
8 Ardfert Sam
6 Ballymac Altobel
Heat 15
3 Avenue Queen
5 Singalong Cherry
9-4 Unassuming
12 Microchip
5-2 Mill Willow
6 Kilcolgan Eddie
Heat 16
9-4 Slippery Felix
10-3 Miami Hans
12 Hunters Pilot
4 Coolemount Fame
5 Harvard Square
3 Priceless Romeo
Heat 17
9-2 Bills Harbour
8 Droichead Nua
7-2 Sober Barry
6 Ballymac Siun
8 Callaway Five
11-10 Kapuka Coley
Heat 18
8 Miami Hyland
6 Callaway Knegare
5 Ballymac Hitman
10 Lone Calling
14 Lemon Hidalgo
1-2 Ballymac Deniro
Heat 19
2 Metal King
5-2 Shotgun Dez
8 Sure Exile
10 Ryee
6 Sawdust Barry
5-2 Glengar Phantom
Heat 20
25 Kerogue Jet
8-11 Jaykay Fly
12 A Charda
2 Ballymac Charbel
5 Skywalker Bruno
25 Lansky
Heat 21
5-2 Grouchos Chief
7-2 Hackney Dancer
12 Gallant Captain
6 Crossfield Matt
11-10 Hackney Corner
33 El Prez George
Heat 22
6 Carrigeen Whit
5-2 Berlin Trilogy
11-8 Waitingforastar
6 Gaytime Joachim
9-2 Slippery Brian
16 Dear Sir
Heat 23
7-2 Sleight Of Hand
8-11 Wi Can James
6 The Other Eimear
12 Droopys Winsome
10 Text Amiright
8 Supa Mac
Heat 24
14 Ballymac Cmax
7-4 Lennies Eddie
8 Amidus Hulk
11-10 Ballymac Setanta
33 Grangeview Rocko
4 Faypoint Ranger
******
DERBY DRAW THROWS UP SOME TREMENDOUS CLASHES
Those tuning into watch the draw for the opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby were left to wait on Monday afternoon but it was worth it with the draw throwing up some absolutely outstanding heats.
Chief amongst them is Heat 10. Kennel companions and namesakes, 2024 Derby champion Bockos Diamond and Kirby Memorial finalist Bockos Gold will lock horns, but throw in the 2025 Juvenile Derby champion Getup The Boy, Puppy Derby finalist Slick Sanctuary and 2025 Derby finalist Glengar Silent, as well as the early paced Harlequin Gee Up and it is the undoubted contest of the round.
A total of 18 wide seeds and 26 middle seeds went into the draw with the remaining 100 going in as inside seeds. The fact that 144 was reached in the entry means there will be 12 heats on Friday night and 12 on Saturday.
***Four will qualify from each leaving the magical 96 for the second round.***
