A CLASSIC DERBY FINAL AWAITS
Ireland’s Liam Dowling heads into next weeks Star Sports Bookmakers TRC English Greyhound Derby Final double handed as his De Lahdedah and Ballymac Gizmo both took a huge step closer to the ultimate glory. De Lahdedah a greyhound so highly rated by his trainer showed himself in rude health with a dominant victory in the first semi final. Taking full advantage of the draw on the rail he managed to squeeze inside of 2023 Champion Gaytime Nemo and set sail for victory. The move was a winning one but also a devastating blow to the defending champion’s chances of progress as Graham Holland’s superstar eventually finishing just one place short of qualification in fourth. Mark Wallis’s Whyaye Man once again showcased his talent and particular liking for the Towcester circuit with a quality performance in second position. A dream for his MWD Partnership connections he deservedly takes his place in the final. Paul Hennessy’s Boylesports Bob a wide runner of immense talent whose strong running see’s him so difficult to keep out the frame claimed the third spot in final and in the hands of a team who have been there seen it and done it with regards to Derby glory he will line up next week with every chance.
POST SEMI FINAL THOUGHTS OF LIAM DOWLING
Richard Rees has dreamed of emulating the English Derby success of both his grandfather Phil and father Phillip for quite sometime and in recent years has gone so close to making that a reality. Southwood Jet making the 2020 Final at Nottingham whilst Cochise lined up in the 2023 Final here at Towcester. In Churchfield Syd the Rees team have a greyhound who has the heart to match his talent and he showcased that perfectly with a stunning victory in the second semi final. Holding off Liz McNair’s King Memphis who after a slow start ran a stormer in defeat to eventually be touched off just a short head by Syd in a pulsating finish. The third and final qualifying spot went to Liam Dowling as his Ballymac Gizmo eventually came through to claim a comfortable enough third place finish. Gizmo will line up as the only greyhound in the final not to have won a round thus far , could he be saving it for when it really matters most ? The second semi final saw the elimination of 2023 Irish Derby Champion The Other Kobe. The draw for the final will take place on Monday at the prestigious Derby lunch at Towcester racecourse.
POST SEMI FINAL THOUGHTS OF RICHARD REES
