Ballinabola Joe popular with the sponsors for Star Sports/TRC English Greyhound Derby

Punters impressed by Ballinabola Joe in Star Sports/TRC English Greyhound Derby heats

The sponsors saw plenty of support for Ballinabola Joe after his success in the first round of the Star Sports/TRC English Greyhound Derby at Towcester.

On the back of the quickest sectional so far of 3.91, Pat Buckley’s dog posted a flying 28.62 effort when making all with half a length to spare from Barefoot On Fire.

Given the figures he clocked and how lightly raced he is, it was no surprise to see Ballinabola Joe well backed ahead of the second round.

“Ballinabola Joe was the biggest mover and he is now 22/1 with us,” said Star Sports representative Kaan Hughes.

“We’ve also trimmed the runner-up from that race, Barefoot On Fire, and he’s now 40/1.”

Bockos Diamond remains favourite in the outright betting and Hughes explained they haven’t been too keen to lay the Irish Derby hero so far.

He said: “We want to keep Bockos Diamond on side on, as there is potential to lay him cheaper at a later stage.”

Things didn’t go too well for the firm on course, but they will be ready to do battle again on Friday and Saturday.

“In the heats, we got bashed 3–0, but we will be looking to face up and take them on again this week,” added Hughes.

“There are some tough races which could shake it all up.

“The specials have all been repriced on the site.”

Find the Star Sports Derby specials here