PAT THE MAIDEN DERBY HERO

Ian Fortune

Bombay Pat again took the headlines at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night, running out an exceptional winner of the inaugural Shelbourne Maiden Derby. His trajectory in recent weeks has been nothing short of sensational and he is now firmly amongst the favourites for Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby glory.

The Graham Holland trained son of Pestana and Clear Mountain was sent to traps an odds-on favourite and his many followers were soon in clover. Breaking on terms, he quickened into the lead before the turn and it was all one-way traffic thereafter.

His task was certainly made easier by the defection of Coosane Pickles earlier in the day and the extra room played into his hands. Once going to the front, Bombay Pat was ruthless. Charging clear of the pursuing Tarsna Maasai, Bombay Pat was out of sight by the third turn.

Owned by Pat Muldoon and Bayliss Gee, the September ’22 whelp confirmed his standing as one of Ireland’s best with a seven-length victory over Tarsna Maasai in 29.35. Born To Perform was best of the remainder, a further length adrift.

Dylan Brennan presents the trophy to Molly Muldoon after Bombay Pat won The Shelbourne Maiden Derby AAO 550. Also included are Pat and Justin Muldoon, Seamus and Sean Hagan and Paul Hughes.               Pic: Imelda Grauer
Jules

DIAMOND SHOWS HIS CLASS

The other final up for decision was that of the time Greyhound Nutrition Open 550 and hot Derby favourite Bockos Diamond continued his incredible form to win for the ninth time on the bounce.

In what is very likely to be his final start before the Derby gets underway, the Graham Holland trained star had to show incredible early speed and determination to recover from a tardy start.

Taking a step right at boxes, he looked in trouble only to show astounding early speed to cut through the pack into the turn. Asserting at the bend, he went from being in trouble in the early yards to enter the back straight in a commanding position.

His kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches turned second but looked unlikely to lay a glove on the leader. Still clear to the third turn, Bockos Diamond looked certain to emerge an easy winner. Cheap Sandwiches had other ideas, however. Closing on the run in, he got to within a length of Bockos Diamond, who tied up a little.

Ultimately, the line came in time for the hot favourite Bockos Diamond who held on for a half length verdict in 29.81. Much will be made of the time and the manner in which he tied up but it was difficult not to be impressed with Bockos Diamond in the early stages. He is a deserving Derby favourite and its clear there is better to come.