Towcester may be one of the country’s biggest racing ovals, but its first Derby is proving full of twists and turns.

The eight biggest talking points of Friday night:

  • The 28.72 track record of Tyrur Shay who in the space of a week changed styles from being a ‘one lap Scurlogue’ to a dog looking well capable of landing the big race. He has been cut to 7-1 favourite with the sponsors
  • The disqualification of former track record holder Madabout Eoghan in heat seven. The stewards were left with no choice. Huge disappointment for the connections of Bubbly Turbo who looked certain to qualify.
  • The bizarre decision not to disqualify College Paradise after a clear first bend ‘dig’ in the opening heat. Surely time for an industry review on what qualifies as ‘deliberate interference’?
  • The vulnerability of long time ante post favourite Clares Rocket who has still not taken to the Towcester traps or circuit – and Droopys Buick who is also struggling with the Towcester boxes.
  • The vulnerability of Dorotas Wildcat who has been so dominant in his early races that he is still to learn the trackcraft when behind. What pace shown in his elimination though!
  • The strength of the Irish challenge with four of the eight winners, and a particularly impressive double for Paul Hennessy. Who would want to lay Jaytee Jet about reaching the decider?
  • The skill of Charlie Lister to nurse back Cloran Paddy from injury and return as a serious four-bender after a staying career
  • The class and resilience of Shaneboy Freddie, just a month short of veteran status, but unbeaten to date and with 69 races on his card.

PRICELESS BRANDY (t2) leads at the first bend in heat 1 from King Eden (t5) and Slaheny King (t1). Photo: Steve Nash

Shaneboy Style (t2) leads at the turn in heat 2 challenged on the rail by College Paradise (t4) with Dorotas Vic (t6) just behind. Eventual winner Jaytee Jet (t5) again leaves himself with plenty to do. Photo: Steve Nash

JAYTEE JET pictured chasing the others early before coming from behind to win heat 2. Photo: Steve Nash

 

 

 

Going into a troublesome first bend in heat 4: From left, Dorotas Wildcat (t4), Brnkleys King (t6), Murrys Act (t5) and winner Cloran Paddy (t1) about to squeeze through on the rail. Photo: Steve Nash

 

 

 

Desperately unlucky BUBBLY TURBO (t5) scoots clear on the run up in heat 7, with drama to follow at the final bend when barged out of the Derby by Madabout Eoghan (t1) who was disqualified. Photo: Steve Nash

 

CALICO RANGER (t6) comes late on the outside to snatch victory. Photo: Steve Nash