And we are off...From Trial Stakes to the Final of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby!

After weeks of preparation and Derby Trial Stakes hosted around the country, the First Round of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby commences this Thursday at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium in Dublin. The competition, which is the most prestigious event in the Irish Greyhound Calendar, has a total prize fund of €240,000.

Running since 1928, the Irish Greyhound Derby is one of the longest running tests of champions on the Greyhound Racing Calendar. John Boyle, of BoyleSports noted that ‘We are delighted to be in our third year of sponsorship in what is the jewel in the crown of Irish Greyhound Racing, the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby. Greyhound racing is my passion and I’m delighted to be associated with this prestigious event. The 2016 running of the BoyleSports Derby looks to be one of the best yet. Recent Champion Stakes winner Clare’s Rocket, English Derby winner Jaytee Jet, and Dundalk International winner Droopys Roddick all vying for favouritism at the head of the betting. Throw in last year’s winner Ballymac Matt in the mix, and we should have a cracking renewal this year. Best of luck to all owners and trainers involved and may the best dog win.’

 

The final on Saturday 17th September will again coincide with The All Ireland Football Final weekend. This year Trainer Graham Holland has the biggest team with 16 entries while PJ Fahy is the leading owner with 6 hopefuls in the first round.

The draw for the next round will be streamed each night after racing on the Talking Dogs section of the IGB website.