Still plenty of Kerry interest as Derby cut to 48 runners

VERY unfavourable weather, a clash with the Rose of Tralee parade and the fact that some people were probably holding off for the big Sunday afternoon meeting, had an adverse affect on the attendance at Tralee Track on Saturday night, but those who did turn up were provided with a decent mix of entertainment.

Best of all, all the second-round action from the Boylesports Derby was relayed from Shelbourne Park and, needless to say, greyhounds carrying Kerry interest commanded particular attention. Liam Dowling’s challenge remains strong and his kennel star, Ballymac Matt, which is seeking a repeat victory in the classic, did really well to qualify in heat 12 after looking like being eliminated turning for home.

Ballymac Matt, still 10/1 in the long-odds betting with the sponsors, runs from trap 2 in heat 3 of the second third round this Saturday night and, very interestingly, the Tralee juvenile classic winner, Escapism, is in trap 6 and another of Liam Dowling’s runners, Ballymac Belle, is in trap 1. Fascinating stuff, that.

At the Oakview venue itself, a nine-race programme saw Pennylane Gem (3/1) clock the fastest time for the 525yds trip. He was running from trap 6 in the last race (A2 525) and, after timing his break to absolute perfection, victory was more or less assured for him. He raced home two lengths ahead of even-money favourite, Bowline Arrow, in 28.89.

Over 325yds, Hawthorn Pearl ran a real blinder to win the sixth race (S4/ S5 class) in 17.51. Just like Pennylane Gem, she won her race from trap-rise, flying out of trap 5 and totally dominating thereafter. At the line, she had three lengths to spare from Send It Jay and justified even-money favouritism in the process.

Other winners: Fabianski (2/1), 18.12; Express Champers (6/4), 28.98; Bayside Rolo (2/1), 18.21; Leaha Maestro (2/1), 29.48; Lecheile Mochara (even-money), 29.20; Ballymac Breeze (even-money), 28.97; Spirit Sonia (6/4), 29.09.