Tonight marks the commencement of the 2024 Star Sports/TRC English Greyhound Derby at the Northamptonshire venue. This is the sixth edition of the event at this venue and the fourth under the stewardship of Kevin Boothby. With a strong Irish contingent entering the competition, this five-week event promises to be as competitive as any in recent years.
Heat Previews:
Heat 1: The standout names in this heat include Eclipse winner Newinn Syd, KAB Maiden Derby winner Jaytee Etienne, and Antigua Forky (formerly Optic Chico), who has shown decent Irish form. Newinn Syd, with his inside draw (trap 4), is the confident selection here. He has proven himself over course and distance and is a strong contender despite concerns about the latter stages. Others to watch include the promising Keefill Rocky and the strong-running Azurite.
Heat 2: All eyes are on the Irish Oaks winner, Crafty Shivoo, who has been unbeaten in six races over course and distance, including an impressive 3.95 sectional (from T3) and a best time of 28.81. Crafty Shivoo is expected to perform well, although the withdrawal of Undulation leaves a gap in the competition. Grouchos Duke, with his impressive times from Shelbourne, is another contender to watch.
Heat 3: Antigua Kestrel, with a best time of 28.03 at Limerick, remains a strong contender despite his relatively low race count. The Other Donny and Ballinabola Jim bring experience to the table, while Edwards boasts solid form over course and distance.
Heat 4: Signet Goofy, who narrowly missed a place in the '22 Derby Final, remains a favorite in this heat. Unreal Bruiser and Whyaye Man are also contenders, with the latter taking a drop in class for this competition.
Heat 5: A challenging heat with four pups and a debut for Savanabetgoodwin, but Bockos Thunder, with his 50% strike rate and knowledge of the course, stands out as the top choice. The heat also features other strong contenders like Tullymurry Jenga.
Heat 6: The focus here is on The Other Kobe and Faypoint Harvey, with the latter showing faster sectional times recently. Tullymurry Jenga could also make a strong showing in this heat.
Heat 7: Droopys Doughnut, with his recent track record, emerges as the most likely contender in this heat. Bombay The Joker and Nowitsmyturn are also worth monitoring, with the latter showing steady progress.
Heat 8: De Lahdedah and Churchfield Syd lead this heat, with both dogs showing strong runs in recent trials. Ower Cracker, a classy puppy, might need to be watched closely in his debut.
Heat 9: King Capaldi and Aayamza Sydney are the main contenders here. King Capaldi has shown a liking for the Towcester course, while Aayamza Sydney is known for his early pace and size. Cooliogold is another contender capable of a strong performance.
Heat 10: Boylesports Bob, with his impressive record in Ireland, is the likely favorite in this heat. Slick Sabo and Singalong Dolly are also expected to perform well, despite recent slow trials.
This opening round promises thrilling competition as these greyhounds vie for victory in one of the year's most prestigious events.