Priceless Diamond Shines Bright in Historic Irish Derby Win

Claiming the title of "greatest ever" is a bold assertion, but Ian Fortune’s glowing commentary on Bockos Diamond’s breathtaking victory in the 2024 Boylesports Irish Derby Final certainly invites that conversation. Reflecting on this achievement, Star Editor Floyd Amphlett suggested that the late Michael Fortune, widely regarded as one of the greatest commentators, might have shared Ian’s sentiment.

Bockos Diamond, a track record holder, secured his 16th win out of 17 starts, making history as the shortest-priced winner in Irish Derby history at 30/100. The only comparable performance was Spanish Battleship’s second Derby win, returning at 4/11 odds during his remarkable triple Derby streak.

This victory also marked a milestone for Graham Holland, who achieved his fourth Irish Derby win, equalling legendary trainers Tom Lynch and Gay McKenna. Dubbed "Tipperary’s Golden Balls," Holland cemented his legacy with an unforgettable night. Adding to the triumph, his other runner, Cheap Sandwiches, finished a strong second, showcasing the strength of the Holland team.

The event was a triumph for Greyhound Racing Ireland, whose stellar promotion drew an impressive crowd and saw over €160,000 wagered on the tote that evening. The atmosphere was electric, as captured in a video by GBGB Director Peter Hardnen, who plans to share the excitement with his peers.

Bockos Diamond’s stellar performance, combined with the night’s energy and exceptional organisation, underscored why the Irish Derby remains one of greyhound racing’s premier events.