During the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby over the next month we will be talking to a whole host of connections with a view to getting their inside opinion on the competition. With the first-round heats due to take place over tonight and tomorrow evenings, we caught up with leading player at the Brendan Matthews kennel, Adam Matthews.
ADAM MATTHEWS
FRIDAY
My NAP of the night comes in first heat of the Derby. Mustang Jet (heat 1) is a very consistent performer at Shelbourne Park and can get his derby campaign off to a great start with a win on Friday night. He represents good value at 4/5 to lead all the way.
Next best would be the Owen McKenna trained Ballymore Border (heat 12). I expect him to get clear of the field and to lead all. His biggest rival being Barefoot supremo , although I expect him to find early traffic.
Other fancied runners on the night are the Michael O’Donovan trained Coolavanny Calvn (heat 8) & Hoffa (heat 10). This duo have a serious outright chance in the Derby and can get their campaign off to a brilliant start.
Savana Hero (heat 4) would have a chance in against reigning Oaks champ Raha Mofo. If coming away on terms he could take an early lead and would be hard to beat.
Fernandes (heat 13) is in a very difficult heat containing speedster Crokers Spirit, Kirby winner Swords Rex and the ever-consistent Beach Avenue. However if trapping he’ll be hard to stop with an ideal draw.
Townview Syd (heat 11) is potentially in the heat of the entire first round. He will need some luck in running to get involved.
