Favourite ‘Wild’ set for Limerick prize as future stars prepare for Shelbourne final

BALLYMAC WILD will start a hot favourite to win the final of the Friends of Limerick Irish St Leger this evening and, should he avoid any early mistakes, looks likely to justify his billing.

A powerfully built son of Vulturi, he has already captured the Juvenile Classic at Tralee, finished runner-up in the Champion Stakes and reached an Irish Derby decider.

It’s an impressive CV for a greyhound which only turned two in July and, of course, missed three months through lockdown. A trap four draw is also in his favour with Amazing Alice likely to edge inwards from three.

Of those standing in his way, Derby runner-up and Cesarewitch champ Meenagh Miracle and the hugely talented Epic Hero could offer the most resistance, although the remaining trio of Amazing Alice, Cash Ready and Oran Don can’t be ignored.

As with any major final, anything can happen but the nod remains with Ballymac Wild.

Liam Dowling’s charge can get loose in the opening yards before powering his way to another big race success, perhaps at the expense of Epic Hero.

Meanwhile, at Shelbourne Park, some of the stars of the future will be aiming to secure a place in the final of the valuable IGOBF National Puppy Stake. Both Ballymac Ariel and Billys Diva were stunning in the opening round and their clash in the second heat looks particularly tasty.

The former is amongst the most exciting youngsters to emerge in the past decade and can take a step closer to superstardom by winning in style.