When Owen McKenna’s Confident Rankin went around Curraheen in 28.25 in a trial last Friday he sent out a message that the Red Mills Irish Laurels is not going to be easily won.

There are two withdrawals from the third round of the Ladbrokes Irish Derby but it remains highly competitive.

The recent Champion Stakes winner Droopys Jet really brought the first session of the Ladbrokes Irish Derby to life at Shelbourne Park last night when he was a hugely impressive winner of heat 5 in 29.52.

Fresh from his brilliant victory in the Champion Stakes just 11 days ago, Droopys Jet is set to provide a high-profile start to the Ladbrokes Irish Derby at Shelbourne Park tonight.

Following his sale on Saturday last, Cabra Noel is likely to race as Tyrur Justin when he begins his quest for English Derby honours at Wimbledon.