Two major competitions reach the semi-final stage on the tracks this week with the semi-finals of both the Sporting Press Irish Oaks at Shelbourne and the Bettor.com Northern Irish Derby at Drumbo Park to be run on Saturday.

AFTER a stunning opening round effort Broadstrand Lad was promoted to clear favourite for the Tyrur McGuigan @ Stud Open 575 and his position in the market has been strengthened further with the withdrawal of Royal Patrol.

TYRUR Mozzletoff became the fastest bitch to ever cover 525yds at Shelbourne Park when racing to a brilliant success in the final of the Christmas Oaks on Thursday night.

WITH no further withdrawals yesterday, there are 92 dogs standing for tonight’s opening second round session of the Ladbrokes.com Irish Derby at Shelbourne Park.