Straightforward task for McGuigan

THE opening round of the Ladbrokes.com Derby will draw to a conclusion at Shelbourne Park this evening and, with twelve heats, there should be no shortage of clues as to the possible outcome of the world’s greatest greyhound competition.

Perhaps the most significant clue will come in Heat 24 where 2010 champion Tyrur McGuigan begins his defence. With only two races under his belt since September, punters are still very much in the dark as to whether or not McGuigan can recapture the form that saw him storm through last year’s Derby.

But he faces a relatively straightforward task tonight. If he can make one of his trademark fast starts, he could have matters well in hand by the second turn. Otherwise, Barefoot Admiral could make life difficult.