With still two days to go before the deadline, the entry list for the Paddypower.com Irish Derby had reached 100 and the signs are that the final number will be very close to the ideal number of 144.

The focus of the greyhound world over the next two months will be very much on Shelbourne Park and patrons of the track will enjoy a feast of racing. The final of the Boylesports.com Champion Stakes on Saturday night will act as a hugely valuable prelude to the Paddypower.com Irish Derby which will commence on Wednesday week.

Last year’s Irish Derby finalist Headleys Bridge has been withdrawn from Saturday’s heats of the Boylesports.com Champion Stakes at Shelbourne and he will be replaced by first reserve Slick Sioux.