After all the excitement of the English Greyhound Derby just two months ago, it’s now the start of the Irish equivalent this weekend to look forward to.
From a British point of view, we have Proper Heiress racing on Friday and Ballymac Axel now with the trainer Murt Leahy on Saturday.
Although disappointing they didn’t get the full quota, no-one has had their application turned down – plus the fact that four will qualify from every heat in the first round.
From an analytical point of view, there are quite a number of greyhounds entered without even had a trial or recent prep race, so the form is more unpredictable than normal.
Estimates and historical ratings come into the equation at this early stage of the competition.
Even so, it’s time to find a couple of early each-way selections to follow with eager anticipation.
Bombay Pat (16/1) is the epitome of consistency and was unfortunate to miss out on the final last year.
Bockos Diamond was a revelation in 2024 but I am willing to take him on at such cramped odds with Shanahee Boomer (50/1) as well. He won the very recent Maiden Derby here and has an impressive CV since stepping up to the 503m distance.
Ratings are calculated on an individual race basis until we get to the third round last 48 situation.
Friday’s Heats
Saturday’s Heats
