David Mullins considers March On Freddie’s draw in Saturday’s third round of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne “decent but challenging.” The last UK competitor remaining in the hunt for the €125,000 prize and a place in greyhound history, Freddie secured his preferred trap six position for the fourth of eight heats in this renowned Irish Classic.
Though Mullins is satisfied with Freddie taking the outside spot, he remains cautious following a tense experience in the second-round heat last Friday. Reflecting on the race, Mullins noted that Freddie “appeared to be in trouble down the back,” but a timely opening allowed Freddie to leverage his speed, though it came with a few nail-biting moments.
Currently back in the UK, Mullins relies on his wife Julie, who’s staying with the record-setting Puppy Classic winner at breeder Rachel Wheeler’s base in Co. Tipperary. Mullins mentioned that he still has “plenty to manage” back home, with Freddie’s brother, Brindle Bully, competing in the Sunderland heats on Friday and a series of Romford races lined up throughout the week.
Despite the busy schedule, Mullins expressed gratitude for the warm reception at Shelbourne, saying that both their trial runs and races have been met with enthusiastic support. As he put it, “It’s a hectic time, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything. We’re excited for Saturday.”
The full lineup for the third round of the BoyleSports Irish Derby was announced on Tuesday, setting the stage for a thrilling weekend.