DALEROAD DEVON STARS IN THE OPENING ROUND OF THE ERIC BROWNE MEMORIAL KINGDOM DERBY

Barry Drake

DALEROAD DEVON set a fantastic standard in the opening round of the Eric Browne Memorial Kingdom Derby on Friday night, clocking a wonderful 28.16 when winning for trainer Patrick Guilfoyle and owner Thomas O'Keeffe.

Pic right: Daleroad Devon, winner of heat 3 in the Eric Browne Memorial Kingdom Derby on Friday night at the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium, pictured with Patrick Guilfoyle, Sean Óg and Connie O'Keeffe.

Exploding from traps to storm around the opening corners in front, the 6-4 favourite was in total control early. In truth, the outcome was never in any doubt as the classy performer galloped strongly throughout. In fine form in recent weeks, Daleroad Devon was completing an impressive three-timer. Defending Champion Road Exile didn't produce his quickest start, but he ran well for second, four lengths back.

LOVELY EARLY GEARS
Trained by Pat Buckley for William Wood, Glengar Martha impressed when landing the opening heat, in 28.18. Showing lovely early gears to slip around in front from the outside of the track, the 3-1 winner displayed huge pace throughout. Running on well, she beat Ventry Faith, by four and a half lengths.

KEPT ON BEST
In the second heat, Ballymac Finn kept on best to win for Liam Dowling. Kerogue Lady set strong early fractions, however, the 5-4 favourite had all the answers in the final quarter of the contest. A 28.40 winning performance, four lengths clear of Jim By Two who did enough for second place.

HUGE GEARS
In the fourth heat, Ballymac Briar showed massive pace to land the spoils. Trained by Liam Dowling for owner Fr Maurice Brick, the 6-4 favourite took off on the back straight, showing huge gears to take over from Evolution. A fantastic winning run, finishing strongly to win, by three lengths, in 28.47.