‘Xtra’ victory adds €10,000 to appeal fund

MICHAEL FORTUNE Night of Stars provided some wonderful action at a packed Shelbourne Park on Saturday, with the best greyhounds in training putting on a great show.

Every all-aged classic winner was present, with the Derby champion Lenson Bocko the headline act. Graham Holland’s superstar duly delivered in the Night of Stars 550, becoming just the second greyhound to complete the Derby/Night of Stars double.

The most anticipated race was the Night of Stars 525 and it provided a great story. A late reserve, Boylesports Xtra made a flying start to lead throughout.

Just two days earlier it had been announced that Boylesports Xtra would be running in aid of the Séan Ryan Shiner appeal. After a serious car crash eight days earlier, the young Irishman was watching from his hospital bed in Australia and the victory of Boylesports Xtra means the fund is now €10,000 closer to its target.

Each of the eight championship races went to different handlers. Rosbirr Ranger produced a superb run to win the sprint, Sliabh Liag was at her sharpest to lead throughout in the Bitch 525, while Maireads Pearl was the best backed winner on the night, dictating from the outset in the 850.

There were also a couple of epic finishes. Redzer Ardfert left it late in the 750, while Ballymac Cooper had to dig in to contain Wolfe in a great Night of Stars 575. An incredible night’s racing ended on a high with Lemon Ozzy winning the 600.