Laughil Blake 16/1 Derby favourite after draw

One hundred and forty-four greyhounds will contest the opening round of the Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, following the draw, which took place yesterday morning at Shelbourne Park.

The first 12 heats will take place on Thursday night, with the first race at 7.43pm, while the remaining dozen heats will take place on Saturday, beginning at 7.42pm.

Despite some doubts following an injury sustained in winning the trial stake at the track, reigning champ Laughil Blake will take his place, and punters won’t have to wait to see him in action as he contests the very first heat, on Thursday night.