Sugar Ray can land knockout blow

Shelbourne Park will be in danger of bursting at the seams this evening as the Ladbrokes Irish Derby draws to what should be a thrilling conclusion.

Rarely in the long, rich history of the blue riband event has there been such a wide-open decider and punters face quite a task in attempting to solve this puzzle.

Every Derby winner creates history, but tonight Razldazl George has the chance to become only the second greyhound, after the legendary three-time winner Spanish Battleship, to record more than one success in the Irish Derby.

Should the Dolores Ruth-trained star follow up, expect the Shelbourne Park faithful to lift the roof, although it is widely accepted George faces a tougher test than twelve months ago.

In terms of the betting Skywalker Puma is seen as the one to beat.

If the brilliant son of Royal Impact can justify favouritism he would become the fourth Derby winner to emerge from the world famous Killenaule-based kennels of Matt and Frances O’Donnell.

Of their previous Derby winners, Skywalker Puma is perhaps most like Ardfert Mick. The 1991 Derby champion was an intelligent tracker with incredible pace from the second turn and a real determination to win. The same can most certainly be said for Skywalker Puma.

Up to this point in the competition the trap draw hasn’t been of much concern for Skywalker Puma, but that isn’t the case this evening. Puma races from trap two and much will depend on whether he can clear Razldazl George to the turn. If he fails to do so he faces an uphill task.

Cuil Cougar, racing from three, looks certain to dictate the pace in the early stages. He successfully shot clear to win his semi-final but, on that occasion, he was aided by traffic problems in behind. He needs his rivals to clash once again.

Tyrur Sugar Ray was favourite for outright glory prior to his semi-final defeat and many feel he is less than favourably drawn in four. That isn’t necessarily the case however.

With Cuil Cougar anticipated to go clear to the turn, Tyrur Sugar Ray could have room to edge inwards from trap four. If he can lead Razldazl George and Skywalker Puma to the bend he would be hard to hold.

Coolykereen Imp and Camas complete the line up.

Coolykereen Imp is certain to race prominently from trap five, although the rank outsider will need an early lead and plenty of luck if he is to worry the judge.

Camas has the pace and power to mount a challenge from a perfect draw in six, but his tendency to steer a wide course could harm his chances.

Razldazl George and Skywalker Puma both have outstanding claims, but there is a chance that duo could clash. That could leave Cuil Cougar in front, with Tyrur Sugar Ray, Coolykereen Imp and Camas in close proximity.

Sugar Ray has already recorded 29.29 in the competition and if repeating that form he could claim a third Derby success for PJ Fahy and a second for his young handler, Conor Fahy. He gets the nod ahead of Skywalker Puma.

On the undercard there are some really special contests to look forward to. It’s possible The Derby Plate will be won in a faster time than the Derby itself with North Bound likely to start a warm favourite. He will need to be at his sharpest with Produce Stakes champion Power Of God perfectly drawn on the fence.

Only five will line out in the Consolation, following the withdrawal of Newlawn Tock. In his absence Ballymac Vic, Droopys Jet and Laughil Billy look set for a real tussle with the vote going to the first named.