The Irish Derby has long been a measure of the greatest stud dogs across generations. Among the most recent standouts, Droopys Sydney has risen to dominance, producing nine finalists, including Ballymac Finn and Bockos Crystal, who both finished as runners-up in the last two finals. With champions like Gaytime Nemo and Deerjet Sydney in the English Derby as well, Sydney’s influence is hard to overlook.
History shows this isn’t unprecedented. In the 1960s, Prairie Flash was a leading sire, with four of his offspring reaching the 1967 final, including runner-up Dry Flash. The following years saw three more of his line make it to the Derby, with Monalee Gambler taking second in 1969. His crowning achievement came in 1970, when Monalee Pride won the final.
The 1970s were ruled by Monalee Champion, whose progeny won three times through Sole Aim, Tain Mor, and Lindas Champion. Another legend, Top Honcho, set records with 14 finalists, winning once with He Said So, while also having notable runner-ups such as Tyrur Laurel and Tyrur Sugar Ray.
Only a select few sires boast Irish Derby hat-tricks. Brett Lee, once the world's most expensive stud, saw three winners—Tyrur McGuigan, Razldazl Billy, and Laughil Blake—among his seven finalists. Spanish Battleship also claimed three victories, cementing the legacy of his father, Spanish Chestnut, in the Derby’s history.
Droopys Sydney remains the standout with 14 recent finalists, followed by sires like Good News and Pestana. Others like Ballymac Cashout and Broadstrand Bono have also left their mark, adding to the enduring legacy of stud greatness in the Irish Derby.