Irish Performance of the Week - 9 June 2026
While Irish dogs were filling out the entirety of the English Derby final, there were some very smart efforts that need to be discussed back in Ireland.
Frank is breathtaking at Tralee
The 2025 Race of Champions final saw a new track record set by Sword Beach. In 2026, it was Ballycowen Frank who bettered Sword Beach's mark by eight spots, missing out by just two from dipping under 29 seconds. The Kirby runner-up is a spectacular performer and has to be considered a leading contender for the Irish Derby.
At Shelbourne it was Shanahee Boomer who led the way, picking up a third straight win, this one in the semi-final of the Summer Cup. He is only three months off becoming a veteran but this was arguably the best performance of his career. It will be interesting to see what he can continue to do in his current heart.
There was a rough ride around in the quarter-finals of the English Derby for Gaytime Clyde but he was a deeply impressive winner at Cork on Saturday night. There has only been one quicker time over the track and trip so far in 2026 which gives plenty of hope for connections that he has a big prize in him.
Magical Fiona went too quick with her win in the Time Club Graders Derby at Limerick which means that she can not take any further part in the competition as per the stipulations. She has only had five starts in her career so there will be big targets for her ahead, the winner of both of her starts at Limerick.
The youngest on the list this week is Toolmaker Dynomo who was making his racing debut at Enniscorthy. A 28.72 there was a very promising start to the career of this half-brother of Droopys Flare, Droopys Kathleen etc. He will be in many notebooks now after this display.
