CHIEF AN IRISH WINNER AT MONMORE

Ian Fortune

Jacktavern Chief was an Irish trained winner in the opening round of the PGR Monmore Puppy Derby on Saturday night, showing superb early speed after a tardy start to lead before the corner for a narrow victory.

The David Byrne trained star was provided her handler with a first winner across the water as he saw off Deliveroo by a head in 28.52. Given it was only his second ever career start, after an impressive Shelbourne Park debut, it was a hell of a run and one he will improve for. He really does look a natural early paced greyhound and one suspects he will lead around the turn more often than not.

Incidentally, fastest heat winner was Rackethall Brute who came home clear in 28.10. The semi-finals of the Category 1 event are scheduled for this coming Saturday.