Droopys Verve (Loughteen Blanco-Droopys Cyclone, Jun 16) recorded the second fastest time ever over the Towcester Derby course but remains only second favourite behind Dorotas Wildcat for the 2018 Star Sports English Greyhound Derby.

Angela Harrison’s runner was just four spots outside Tyrur Shay’s track record when recording 28.76. It was his eighth win (plus four seconds) from 12 races. Wildcat was only three spots slower when winning his heat in a personal best of 29.79.

The shock of the night was the elimination of, arguably, Ireland’s no.1 contender Droopys Biker.

1st quarter-final
1 Wildfire Legend
2 Borna Gin
3 Crossfield Will
4 Calico Brandy
5 Oi Oi Upenalty (m)
6 Newinn Shadow (w)

2nd quarter-final
1 Dorotas Wildcat
2 King Elvis
3 Bubbly Bluebird
4 Alfies Prince (m)
5 Innocent Times (w)
6 Dorotas Vic (w)

3rd quarter-final
1 Karlow Scolar
2 Bruisers Bullet
3 Droopys Dresden
4 Droopys Verve (m)
5 Saleen Ash (w)
6 Calico Ranger  (w)

4th quarter-final
1 Noelles Phelpso
2 Bombers Bullet
3 Rising Brandy
4 Jelly Flood (m)
5 Salacres Vincent (m)
6 Whoops Jack (w)