Towcester is set to host the English Greyhound Derby for the second year in succession in 2018, with Northamptonshire track now widely considered as the premier venue for greyhound racing in the UK. The action began on May 3rd, with some of the early rounds now having taking place, things are really beginning to take shape. With the final scheduled for Saturday 2nd June, one lucky owner will be walking away with an impressive winner’s purse of £175,000. Astute Missile landed the spoils in 2017, the 28/1 outsider of six causing a huge upset in the process. The well supported Tyrur Shay and Clares Rocket finished in second and third respectively. None of those first three home are in this year’s line-up however.
All-conquering trainer Mark Wallis holds a particularly strong hand in the current greyhound derby betting market, the Towcester based handler having seen four of his eight first round entrants run out victorious. The reigning trainers’ champion won the derby in both 2009 and 2012, and has a great chance of landing a third crown this year, possibly with current market leader Bruisers Bullet. Having clocked a seriously impressive 29.05 during his first round success, this three year old really looks to be coming into his own, and peaking at the right time to have a serious crack at the most prestigious competition in the greyhound calendar.
A number of well fancied greyhounds were eliminated at the first round stage, including the ante post favourite Droopys Expert and Irish raider Clonbrien Hero. The competition now appears wide open, but Droopys Biker very much caught the eye in round two when scoring in a time of 29.07. Ireland’s Pat Buckley is responsible for this talented youngster and will be keen to take the prize back to the emerald isle for the very first time. Currently around a 12/1 chance with the bookies, Droopys Bike could well be the each way play of the current market principles.
Next Tuesday 22nd May will see the quarter final stage get underway, with the first three home in each of the races progressing to the semi finals which will follow on Saturday May 26th. We are set for a couple of very exciting weeks of dog racing action, prior to the champion being crowned in June. Why not take advantage of the generous opening account offers at https://www.signupbonuses.co.uk/ when placing your 2018 Greyhound Derby bets?!
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