Star Sports & Orchestrate Ltd. English Greyhound Derby 2026 - The A-Z

The English Greyhound Derby- from A to Z

We take a look at every single runner lining up in the first round of the Star Sports and Orchestrate Ltd. English Greyhound Derby at Towcester this weekend, assessing their chances in the famous competition. Prices quoted are from the sponsor's and correct at time of writing.

ADVANTAGE RULE - Ruth Lambe - Mr G Ansley, Miss R Lambe, Mr Robinson 

Seen just once in the UK so far when finding all sorts of trouble at Dunstall Park. Clocked 28.29 and 28.39 wins at Shelbourne last autumn, showing plenty of natural speed with a recent 15.62 trial here. A half-brother to solid sprinter Dashing Dude and dual Cat One semi-finalist Leighas Dream. He is a nice recruit but a round or two might be the best he can hope for.

AERO BORIS - Richie Taberner - Aero Racing Syndicate

BGBF British Bred Derby finalist back in December over this track and trip, he is better known as an easy six-bend performer, though that is not always a bad thing in an event like this. Has a tough enough heat and lacks a recent look around.

AERO PEPINILLO - Richie Taberner - Aero Racing Syndicate

Pitched into the opening round of the Pall Mall last summer on just his second start for these connections. He made the semis there and in the Ladbrokes Gold Cup at Monmore. Recent sprint trial here was no more than fair and a draw in four in his heat is a tricky one for a railer. 

AERO PUMPKIN - Richie Taberner - Aero Racing Syndicate

Looked a nice type when winning his first two starts in the UK last December, the first of those at this track. Has been seen in race action just twice since at Central Park in February. Two sprint trials at this track have been okay but is going to need to step up on that to make a significant impact. 

ALRIGHT TWINKLE - David Lewis - Mr D Roome, Mr G Roome, Mr. G.Roome 

Has been busy this year, rattling off a six-timer across January and February, finishing third in the final of the Coral Brighton Belle at the weekend. Ran well enough when twice runner-up at this track in December and is a half-sister to Irish Derby winner Susie Sapphire so has the pedigree for this sort of event. Could get through a few rounds.

BALLINABOLA JOE - Pat Buckley - Murphy-Ballinaboola-Syndicate

A spectacular winner in the first two rounds last year before a desperately unlucky run in the third round. He only made the same round in Ireland subsequently but was beaten just three-quarters of a length by Cheap Sandwiches in the Time Dundalk International. Won the Irish Cesarewitch at Mullingar in March, an event his trainer has an exceptional record in. Has the class but had drawn a red-hot heat.

BALLINTEMPLE GEN - Robert Hall - Mr R L Evans, Mrs D C Evans 

Made a smart winning debut at Cork last autumn, winning an A3 at Dunstall Park and a Nottingham Intertrack for her current trainer. Didn't break 16 seconds on her only sprint trial at this track, and will need a big step up on that form to make any serious impact.

BALLYMAC AXEL - Maxine Locke - JR Racing Syndicate 

Dual Category One finalist, the most recent of those coming in the Arena Racing Company Kent Plate at Central Park in March. That competition saw him run Proper Heiress to a length and a half in the heats and four lengths in the semis. He will meet the Mark Wallis-trained star once more in the opening round. Capable of making it a few rounds if getting some luck.

BALLYMAC BLANCO - Maxine Locke - JR Racing Syndicate

A second round casualty last year, he was knocked out in a heat that contained Churchfield Syd, Vhagar and the eventual winner Droopys Plunge. Made the final of the Arena Racing Company Laurels at Dunstall Park earlier on this month but has drawn one of the toughest first round heats. 

BALLYMAC DAVE - Esther Driver - Mr P A Sallis, Mr R J Tunnicliffe 

An Irish Juvenile Classic finalist in 2025, he has not made it to the track much since. Current connections pitched him straight into the Laurels on his UK debut, qualifying behind Droopys Doris. Knocked out in the semis, he won a maiden on the undercard for the final. Has shaped well in his trials here and his trainer had a semi-finalist last year. Could be a dark horse for a deep run.

BALLYMAC DENIRO - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling 

Winner of the Irish Juvenile Classic at Tralee, he was knocked over in the opening round of the Kirby. Took off on his first look at Towcester, clocking 28.43. Given the track record is 28.39, that has to make him down as a serious contender, and it's no surprise he has been backed into one of the favourites. Lacks experience and has to show he can do it with five dogs around him but looks a proper talent. 

BALLYMAC DUFFLE - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling

Behind his kennelmate Ballymac Deniro in the final of the Irish Juvenile Classic, he made the semis of the Kirby subsequently. Was another to clock a very smart first look at Towcester, stopping the timer at 28.59. One of five dogs to dip under 28 seconds at Limerick this year (Bouncing Monarch's track record is 27.77) he needs plenty of respect here. No surprise if he goes deep.

BALLYMAC IROKO - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling

Won a Ballymac sponsored sweepstake at Limerick last November, he has not managed to get his head in front in four starts so far this year. His best run saw him finish runner-up to Beanos Yank at Cork in March, that runner making the final of the Kirby before going quickest in the Select Stakes semis at Waterford last week. Would have a squeak on that form but was well behind Ballymac Duffle in a trial.

BALLYMAC KOBE - Maxine Locke - J R Racing Syndicate

A Puppy Derby finalist last year, he came into this competition with plenty of support but stumbled from the traps in the opening round and went out. Went seven months without a race after a fall at Hove last July but has returned in excellent form at this track in three runs. A run through a good few rounds would be no surprise. 

BALLYMAC MALINAS - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling

A third runner for his trainer who made the final of the Irish Juvenile Classic at Tralee. He was knocked over in the second round of the Kirby taking his career record to 0/5. Shaped well in a trial here with the promise of more to come given the way he ran the track but others have achieved more to this point. 

BALLYMAC ODIN - Laura Pruhs - Mr D S J Titterton 

A GreyhoundTrader Stakes finalist on Derby night last year, he boasts plenty of early speed. Was a wide-margin winner of a trial stake and is a consistent type on the clock. He has been given a tough task in the opening round, however, taking on a pair who beat him in his most recent trial stake.

BALLYMAC RALF - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling

Knocked out in the second round of both the Irish Juvenile Classic and the Kirby. He clocked a smart time in his first look at Towcester when behind Ballymac Tibet. One of a string of relatively blank pages that Liam Dowling puts in here, and like all of them, he needs plenty of respect. 

BALLYMAC SARGIE - Tom Heilbron - Mr M P Walsh 

Arrives off the back of making the final of the Arena Racing Company Grand Prix at Sunderland for the second straight year. Shown himself as still more than capable over four bends in recent months at his home track of Newcastle. He has a tricky enough opening heat but a slice of luck could see him progress.

BALLYMAC SETANTA - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling

One of the market leaders for this race after making it to the final of the Irish Laurels last autumn. He made the decider of the Kirby recently at Limerick, so his pedigree for a long competition can't be questioned. Has the ability to make a huge impact in the Derby as long as the five rounds of the Kirby has not left too much of a mark on him. 

BALLYMAC STUD - Liam Dowling - Mr L Dowling

A semi-finalist in the 2025 Irish Derby, he has been seen in a trio of sprint contests at Cork most recently. He is capable of a very quick exit on his day, a skill he showed with a 3.81 split in a recent 28.59 trial. Clearly a player if he can maintain that level of consistency.

BALLYMAC TIBET - Liam Dowling - Meinthehalfway Syndicate

Third in the Kingdom Derby at Tralee in December, he made the third round of both the English and Irish Derby last year as well as the semis of the Plate here. Has only been seen twice in 2026, so arrives fresher than some. A solid performer who can get though a few rounds but less exposed kennelmates make more appeal in the outright market.

BEHEMOTH - Belinda Green - Belinda Green, Gary Whittington, Harry Heath 

Had some flashes of real quality in 2025, becoming a more consistent performer this year. That has come at his home track of Hove but is clearly well suited to a galloping track. Wide runner has trialled well enough but is another to land in a decent heat, so might need a big show early on. 

BETGOODWIN BEN - Diane Henry - Julian Head, Miss Diane Henry 

Looked a smart type when running up in an Enniscorthy unraced stake last summer but has had limited action since, with no race on his card since November. Trialled with some promise in Sheffield sprints earlier this month but his Towcester effort was no more than fair on Saturday. Hard to see him play a leading role.

BLUEY BULLET - Paul Young - Mr W Boyle, Mr C M Kiely, Mr A J Williams

Solid performer around Hove this year, he gained an overdue win on his most recent start there after 19 starts without a win. That losing sequence saw him make the final of the KAB Puppy Collar as well as taking on some smart performers in defeat. Takes on a trio of Cat One winners in his heat, so is going to have to be at the top of his game.

BOCKOS BUSTER - Kevin Boon - Mrs B Lochead 

Very smart type when he gets on the bunny, he made the finals of the Click Competitions East Anglian Derby and the Premier Greyhound Racing Classic last year as well as a pair of Cat Two sprints comps. 500m around here stretches him, however, so he will need some trouble behind to make a lasting impact. 

BOCKOS DIAMOND - Graham Holland - Remember Them Syndicate

The 2024 Irish Derby champion made a run to the final of this competition last year without ever really looking to love the track. That shows the frankly ridiculous level of class he possesses that he can do 28.51 twice and finish runner-up. Not seen since injured in the Irish Derby last September, he impressed in a recent sprint trial and it would be foolish to write him off even without a race in almost eight months.

BOMBAY HAWK - Tom Heilbron - Mr A Tait

Made the final of an unraced stake at Enniscorthy to close out 2025, knocked over there in a race where Glengar Kane (who has been the subject of plenty of ante-post support here) broke the track record. An unexposed type who showed enough in trials here to have given him a squeak but he has to take on Bockos Diamond in the opening round.

BOSSMAN BUDDY - Craig Morris - Mr A J Williams

Enjoyed a decent 2025, winning the Irish Produce Stakes, reaching the final of the Irish Laurels and making the semis of the Kirby. Has not hit those heights in two runs for his current kennel but it would probably be unwise to judge him too harshly on those. Interesting outsider albeit in a trappy first round heat.

BRUNCH PAL - David Lee - Mr B Efdal 

A third round casualty in the Irish Derby last year, he was only beaten five lengths that day by Cheap Sandwiches. He has kept decent company since arriving in England, winning 10 of his 15 starts and mixing it with Cat One finalists. Has Ballymac Setanta to cope with in the opening round but he's got the talent to go through a few rounds. There are worse 150/1 shots in here. 

BUBBLY CHARGER - Paul Young - The Champagne Club Syndicate

A 2025 Kirby finalist, he looked spectacular with a couple of early round wins in this competition last year before getting knocked out in the quarters. Well below that level in two starts in 2026, at Monmore in January and Hove in February. Trialled well enough here to think ability remains but hard to know exactly what to expect from him.

BUBBLY HOGAN - Tony Dean - The Champagne Club Syndicate

Missed out on a quarter-final slot in the Irish Derby last year by a length, he produced a pair of smart wins at Central Park to kick off his English career, making the semis of the Kent Plate at that track. Has made a step forward on finish time with each trial here despite making a step backwards on the sectional each time. Will need his trapping boots to make a long-term impact but has the talent to make it through a few rounds.

BURROWS CHARM - Jason Heath - Mr T Burrows, Mrs E Burrows 

Made the final of the Maiden Derby at this track last year before reaching the decider of the East Anglian Derby in the autumn. Has a Kent Plate final appearance under his belt already this year as well as a short-lived track record over Central Park's 664m distance. A rock-solid and consistent performer, he can give connections plenty of fun here. 

BURROWS ZEUS - Jason Heath - Mr T Burrows, Mrs E Burrows 

Speedy type made his debut in the heats of the Irish Sprint Cup last year at Dundalk, making the final. He went on to line up in the final of the Irish Laurels as well, so he knows what these long competitions are all about. Shown plenty of ability in sprint trials but lines up in the opening round without having officially gone around four bends since November.

CARMAC CASH - Esther Driver - Mr P Moult

A strong stayer over four bends, he picked up a 630m maiden competition at Monmore last autumn. That track saw his first win of 2026 as well. Shaped well enough in a solo trial here but faces a tricky heat, and might need a spot of luck to find the breaks.

CARRICK FERGIE - William Hamilton - Mr S W Thomson

Connections have never shied away with this veteran, making the final of the Time 3 Steps To Victory at Sheffield last summer. He kicked off 2026 with a win over the shorter sprint trip at Nottingham to show that he still maintains plenty of versatility. A deep run would be a great story for the August 21 whelp but feels unlikely. 

CARRICK SCHOLSEY - Michael Burton - Severn Racing Club

Only got as far as the second round of the Irish Derby last year but reached the final of the Plate, finishing third after not coming away as well as he can. Has been a little bit inconsistent since joining his current kennel but showed that plenty of ability remains in a recent 28.81 calc trial stake win. Strong stayer could get through a couple of rounds. 

CARRIGOON MILO - Mr Jamie Kingsley - Mr M Clark

Quick-starting type is yet to get his head in front in five starts at Towcester. A semi-finalist in the Ladbrokes Winter Derby, 480m around a speedier track is more his thing than 500m around here. Has some stronger stayers to contend with in his heat, looking vulnerable overall.

CARTOONIST - Craig Morris - Mr A Hannah, Mr A Wright

Better known as a stayer, he made the final of both the George Curtis & Ballyregan Bob Memorial at Hove in December and the Ladbrokes Golden Jacket in February. He's drawn a heat with plenty of early pace that could come back to him but there are others with stronger claims to glory.

CHEAP SANDWICHES - Graham Holland - Bark Wahlberg Syndicate

What more can be said about this dog? 2025 Irish Derby winner, 2024 Irish Derby runner-up, 2024 English Derby finalist, he is an absolute pleasure to watch in action. Hasn't raced since the Winter Racing Festival at Shelbourne when beating Ballymac Setanta three lengths and didn't set the track alight in a sprint trial here but he will be ready for another deep run. Has to be a leading player. 

CHELMS CHARMER - Craig Morris - Mrs M James, Mr J Wright

A super performer on his home track of Yarmouth, already a seven-time winner there this year, those coming form his last 10 starts. Trialled well enough here but this is going to ask a very different question of him in an opening heat drawn between as pair of very quick Irish dogs. 

CMON THE BROM - Seamus Cahill - The Bromley Management

Yet to race away from him home track of Hove since arriving with Seamus Cahill. making the semis of the Coral Olympic there in December. Has a pair of top grade wins at the track to his name from his last three starts but he has been drawn in a very warm opening round heat.

COLOURSAREGREEN - Paul Hennessy - Mr B Cocoman, Mr I A Cunningham 

Was selected to run in the Time Greyhound Nutrition Juvenile after his impressive win in the final of the Tote Gold Cup at Shelbourne. Has found trouble in both of his races here and has drawn a heat with plenty of early speed. Clearly talented but needs to step up on his UK form so far. 

CROSSFIELD DEAN - Tom Heilbron - Mr A Tait

A Kingdom Derby finalist last year, he kept warm company in the main when trained in Ireland. Trialled far better at Newcastle than he did in either of his tries around Towcester, he needs a big step up on that if he is going to make an impression in this competition. 

DEADLY DISCO - Richard Rees - Five Fellas

Another who has shown the pick of his form over longer trips, a multiple Cat One finalist in staying contests, winning the George Curtis & Ballyregan Bob Memorial at Hove in December. Has some decent trials over four bends but is yet to make an impact in any competition over this short of a distance. 

DEERJET ROCKET - Tom Heilbron - Mr R M Bonthrone, Mr D S Bradley

Twice a Category One semi-finalist at the backend of 2025 at Sunderland and Newcastle, he has not managed to get his head in front since a win at the first of those on January 2. Has got a rough draw in the opening round, a railer drawn out in four so he is going to need a slice of luck to get through.

DEREKS LEGEND - Richard Rees - The Trophy Boys

Did the job well in a trial stake, staying on best to lead late in the day. He clocked a solid time that day and plenty of stamina at the end of 500m around here is rarely a bad thing in this competition. His future lies over further but hopefully he can give connections some fun here if avoiding a middle mover inside him in his heat.

DONISHALL SAM - Graham Holland - Mr M E Young 

Made the final of the Connaught Derby at Galway before heading over for a couple of cracks in a trial stake. He found plenty of trouble in the pair of them, sent off the odds-on favourite in each. Runners for his kennel can never be discounted but he has a heat with plenty of decent types around him.

DOWN TOTHE WIRE - Brendan Matthews - Mr.B.Matthews

Has looked a strong runner in Ireland, producing some solid clocks at Shelbourne despite 525y around there not looking far enough. Is entitled to improve plenty for his first look at Towcester but is going to need to, drawn in a heat with Proper Heiress and Romeo Ability.

DROOPYS ALADDIN - Michael Burton - Severn Racing Club

Was a Derby quarter-finalist last year despite a lack of experience, making a string of Cat One semi-finals in 2025. He has stepped up on that form in 2026, deservedly getting a breakthrough at the top table in the Laurels after making the decider of the Winter Derby. A slow track probably didn't see him to best effect in a recent trial, no surprise to see him at least match 2025.

DROOPYS ALLDEWAY - Paul Young - Mr K Rushen

Runner-up in the Romford Puppy Cup last September, he has improved for a proper four bends this year, producing a string of excellent runs at Hove. He has to show that he can run to that level of form around Towcester, trialling with plenty of promise to suggest he can. Tough opening round heat, however.

DROOPYS BERRIES - Kevin Hutton - Mr A Weller 

Burst onto the scene when beating Droopys Aladdin on his race debut at Monmore last February. An injury set him back seven months but he has shown some decent form around here this year and stays this trip well. That should see him through a few rounds at the very least.

DROOPYS BOOKEM - Tom Heilbron - Mr B Collins, Mr T Heilbron, Mr M Young 

A semi-finalist last year, he made the decider of both the Time Northern Flat and the Premier Greyhound Racing Al lEngland Cup at his home track of Newcastle. Has been given a light start to the year, with this the natural target for one of his talents once more. Is in a very trappy opening heat but a similar run to 2025 would be no surprise. 

DROOPYS DEPLOY - Jason Heath - Mr T Burrows, Mrs E Burrows 

Winner of the Arena Racing Company Northern Puppy Derby final last year, he made the decider of both the Kirby and the Irish Derby subsequently. Has not managed to tap back into that level of form since joining Jason Heath but the strong-running wide is capable of making his presence felt. 

DROOPYS GRAPH - Patrick Janssens - The-Three-Tall-Men-Syndicate

Represents the connections of the 2025 winner Droopys Plunge. Has been talked about as a Derby dog almost from the very start, third in the final of the Kent Plate on his first try in a Cat One competition. Boasts a string of times in the 28.80s here and still has very few miles on the clock. Has to be considered a serious player.

DROOPYS MAXIMUS - Richie Taberner - Aero Racing Syndicate 

A consistent performer over both four and six bends at Monmore, he arrives off the back of an A2 win on his most recent start. Made the second round last year before finishing behind Lennies Desire when that rival set the track record in the Derby Plate. Hard to see him improving on 2025 given the heat he has been drawn in.

DROOPYS SCRIPT - Maxine Locke - JR Racing Syndicate

Puppy was a finalist in the Ladbrokes Puppy Derby, getting the closest to Underground Gold in the final. Didn't look in love with Sheffield when making the semis of the Bet St George Gymcrack and moved off in a trial here. A draw in one in his heat is perhaps a trappy one but he is open to any amount of improvement.

DROOPYS SORT - Carl Jackson - Mr M R Phillips, Mr G White, Mr M Young

Showed a good level of form at Cork before arriving with his current trainer, justifying the decision to pitch him straight into the Classic at Sunderland when finishing third to Santas Amigo in the final. Didn't mis out by much on a spot in the All England Cup final in December, winning on the undercard for the final. Yet to get off the mark in 2026 but is a decent enough performer to make it through a few rounds. 

DROOPYS TRADE - Craig Morris - Mr C R Morris 

Fourth in the Laurels final behind Droopys Aladdin when getting a troubled passage around, he made it to the quarter-final stage of the Derby in 2025 after a run to the decider of the Gymcrack. Has a decent competition pedigree, has a nice mix of all-around pace and has been lightly-campaigned ahead of this assignment. Could well make it to the latter stages again. 

DUNBOLG FORMULA - Heather Dimmock - Mrs L Rea

Was A3 at this track at the backend of November, working his way though to a top grade win and a string of decent open race performances this year at Sheffield where he racked up a hat-trick of wins and also at this track when winning a trial stake last time out. Has drawn a pretty decent heat, so is going to need a smart tun in the opening round.

EAGLES RESPECT - Mrs Angie Kibble - Mr J P Miles

The final Produce Stakes winner at Swindon, he has made the finals of the bet365 Challenge Cup over six bends at Oxford and the BGBF British Breeders Stakes at Nottingham since then. Has had no luck at the bend in either of his runs at this track but his strong-staying style could see him though a couple of rounds.

ELLO ELLO - Brendan Matthews - The Three B's Syndicate

Clocked impressive wins in the opening two rounds of the Kirby before not being able to make the bend in front in his quarter-final. Did have a come from behind win at Shelbourne in November but looks the type to show his very best when he is on the bunny. Will need to step up plenty on his first look at the track but that is entirely possible. 

EPIC ACE - John Kennedy - Mr J E Kennedy Jnr

Made a spectacular start to his career in late 2024, winning his first six starts and making the final of the Kingdom Derby. Wins didn't fall his way last year but he still made it to the final of the Irish Sprint Cup. Found all sorts of trouble on his only 2026 start but he shaped well enough in his trial here to give him plenty of respect.

EPIC REBEL - Philip Milner - Mr B L Collins 

Was a semi-finalist in the JR Racing Juvenile Classic at this track last summer, winning an A1 here at the start of March. More than capable of 29 dead around here and has a decent turn of early as well as staying the trip well. Sole wide in his heat against some decent Irish types, qualification would be a solid start.

ERNIE WEBB MATE - Nick Deas - Mr J M Taylor

Made the decider of the BetGoodwin Maiden Series at Oxford in December, beating the eventual winner in the semis. Trialled well enough here over both two bends and the shorter four-bend trip but hard to see him living with better types in his head. 

FARMWAY SHADY - Stuart Maplesden - S Maplesden, Mrs T Stillaway, Mr K Walton 

A top-grade winner at Hove over both two and four bends, he is yet to have much success on his travels, winning twice on 12 visits to Central Park. Lacks a look here, so others make far more appeal overall but hopefully he can give connections something to smile about on their long wait for the final heat of the round. 

FAYPOINT HARVEY - Graham Holland - Mrs P Flanagan

A second round casualty in 2024, he made the quarter-final stage last year. He had no luck in a recent trial stake, getting knocked over at the bend but thankfully he is none the worse for that ahead of a third tilt at the race. Would love to see him get a decent run but his kennel hold much stronger claims elsewhere. 

FLASHING FENDER - Craig Morris - Mr A Wright, Mrs A Wright 

Made the third round last year and then the semis of the Greyhound Trader Stakes. Boasts plenty of early pace which has stood him in good stead to win opens at Yarmouth, Sheffield, Monmore, Romford and Dunstall Park. Has drawn about a difficult a heat as there is, however, so he is hard to fancy outright. 

FOXWOOD CHRISTY - Barrie Backhurst - Mr J R Sayers

A top-grade winner at Oxford, he is yet to race away from that track since arriving in England. Didn't shape at all badly in a trial here and connections will soon know their fate in the opening heat. Struggle to see him making it deep overall.

GARFINEY WARRIOR - Graham Holland - Mr M J Lynch 

Picked up a decent win at Cork last year but generally looked in need of experience. He roared into life with wide-margin 575y wins at Shelbourne and Cork earlier on this year, clocking the quickest of the year so far a the latter. Went under by half a length in a messy trial stake, keeping on well. Is a half-brother to Mongys Wild and that stamina could take him a long way in this competition. 

GAV NIFICENT - Paul Young - Mr A Head

Doesn't have a lot of experience but showed up well in the recent JR Racing Puppy Cup, showing sparkling early and clocking very smart times for one of his age. He has drawn a very tough opening round heat, so whatever he does here, he can improve on in the future. 

GAYTIME CLYDE - Graham Holland - Mr B T O'Connell

Winner of the Rural Kennels Open Unraced at Clonmel, he made the semis of the Connaught Derby, taking on more seasoned opponents. Things have not gone his way at the opening bend in either of his trial stake runs at this track, and could have had a kinder opening heat as well. 

GAYTIME JOACHIM - Graham Holland - Mr B T O'Connell 

Has produced a decent sectional in each of his three starts here, getting his head in front in the most recent of those, holding off a decent yardstick in Ballymac Axel by a short head. Is going to need to keep improving to make it into the business end of the competition but after only 12 career starts, that is plausible.

GETUP THE BOY - Mark Robinson - Mr D B Ornstein

Winner of the Time Juvenile Derby at Shelbourne last summer, connections were patient with him, allowing him time to mature. He had a decent run though the Kirby to the semi-final stage and shaped well enough in a trial here. Should have the class to overcome a trappy opening heat but will need to show his best form to win this.

GLENGAR KANE - Pat Buckley - Mr R A Colwell

Is drawn directly on the inside of Getup The Boy in his opening round heat which will make it a tricky start for the Mark Robinson-trained runner. Pat Buckley's charge has not been seen in race action since setting new figures at Enniscorthy in December, winning the Lord Kennel Unraced. Flew around here in sprint trials and has been the subject of plenty of support in the ante-post market. Fascinating contender. 

GLENGAR SILENT - Pat Buckley - Mr T Nolan

Third in the Irish Derby last year on just the 11th start of his career, he has raced just once since. Took off in a pair of trials here, clocking 28.43 in the second of those, just four spots off the track record. Is right at the top of the betting for a reason for all that he has been drawn in a deep enough opening heat.

GOLDCASH WARRIOR - Nathan Hunt - Mr F G W Ellison 

Looked a smart recruit in Ireland, wining his first three starts for current connections at Monmore, Dunstall Park and Nottingham. Has produced some smart enough times here in both race and trial action, and there is no reason to think that he can't make it through a few rounds.

GRANTSTOWN CROSS - William Hamilton - Mr E M J Kelly 

His 25.53 win at Star Pelaw in February is still in the top five quickest times of the year at that track. He has scored at Doncaster and Sheffield in opens as well before a 16.00 calc trial here. A draw outside of Ballymac Deniro in the opening round is going to be a serious test for him. 

GROUCHOS COSSIE - Diane Henry - Mr J G N Head 

Just one win in 11 starts when trained in Ireland but he made the final of the Rural Kennels Open Unraced at Clonmel and the quarter-final stage of the Kirby. This is going to demand a lot more of him, he lacks a look at the track and his sprint trial at Sheffield was underwhelming. 

GROUCHOS JACK - Pat Buckley - K G O'Connell, Mr W Thomson

Went out in the opening round of the Kirby and has just five starts under his belt. Caught the eye in a trial stake here behind a couple of decent types, albeit in a horribly messy race. Opposable on the form that is in the book so far but given his trainer and unexposed profile, he shouldn't be completely dismissed. 

HACKNEY CORNER - Pat Buckley - Hackney Boys Syndicate

A big player for this competition on the clocks that he has produced in Ireland when winning at Enniscorthy, Limerick and Shelbourne. Impressive when stopping the clock in 28.53 in a trial here but he has some decent types in his heat with him and  he has not always carried forward his good early work in competitions into the latter stages. 

HACKNEY TOAST - Afzal Ali - Mr A Ali

Sprung a little bit of a surprise with a trial stake win but there was no fluke to that success, pacing up best to the bend and then continuing to find plenty on the front end. This is going to require another big step up in terms of time but this track does clearly suit better than when he was running in graded company at Oxford. 

HAPPY JET - Carol Grasso - Mr R Christie, Mr K R Rogerson

A semi-finalist in the Irish Derby last year, he has not reached those heights in England so far but he has some solid 29.06 and 29.10 winning form at this track. Runner-up to big money purchase. This Approach in his most recent trial stake effort, he needs to step up on that but could sneak though a round.

HARDY BUCKO - Jason Gray - D Racing 

Nottingham raider arrives off what was arguably a career-best win at that track last time out. His trials here were both in the 29.40s which leaves him some way short of the level required. Another peak run is required to get out of the first round.

HERES RINGO - Glen Hockings - Mr G K Hockings

Went out in the second round last year in a heat that contained Churchfield Syd, Vhagar and Droopys Plunge. Has not got any luck with the draw to kick off his 2026 campaign with Ballymac Setanta directly to his left. Won a trial stake in good style but has a tough task ahead of him.

HOLDING AERO - Richie Taberner - Mr S J Forsdike, Mr G J Shepherd

A semi-finalist in both the Puppy Derby at Monmore and the Gymcrack at Sheffield having won his opening round contest in each of those. The lack of a look around is a concern for the pup who has found himself in a very tricky opening round heat. 

JIMMYJIMMYJIMMY - Paul Young - Tony Head 

Is drawn directly to the left of Holding Aero in the opening round. He missed his break when sent off as the hot favourite for the Hove Puppy Cup final on Saturday night after being so impressive in the opening round. Given his runs at Hove, he is another who lacks a look which is going to make things tricky for a puppy, for all that he clearly has a serious engine.  

KELLIES EMERALD - Jason Gray - K's of Herts

A regular A1 winner at his home track of Nottingham, he took a big step forward on his second trial at this track, dipping under 29 seconds on calculated times. Was a little over four lengths behind No Better Feelin in a Nottingham open in early March but probably needs a career-best to go further than the second round. 

KRANKY DRAKE - Kevin Hutton - Mr A W.Brealey, Mr G R Hutton, Mr K R Hutton, Mr A Weller 

A very strong runner over this trip, it was only a few weeks ago that he was noted taking chunks out of the lead of Swords Style in a trial stake. A finalist in the Arena Racing Company Puppy Classic last year, he was third in his Winter Derby semi-final so he has plenty of class. A regular under 29 seconds here, he might just be the right type to keep on running on into the next round. 

LENNIES DESIRE - Paul Hennessy - Mr L D Craze

A spectacular performer when he gets things right, he went into most notebooks with an outstanding display in the first round of this competition last year only to get knocked out the next week. He returned to break the track record in the heats of the Derby Plate but was withdrawn from the final when lame. Looked in need of the refresher here in his trial stake but could will it be feast or famine this time around?

LENNIES DYNAMIC - Paul Hennessy - Mr B Cocoman, Mr L D Craze 

Clocked 28.05 when successful in the opening round of the Kirby but made it no further than the next week before getting knocked out. Showed bundles of early in a trial stake before not running the opening bend particularly well. Capable of improving on that but might need to in a deep enough opening heat.

LENNIES EDDIE - Paul Hennessy - Mr L D Craze

Twice an impressive winner of trial stakes here, clocking the same time of 28.62 in each. Has only had seven races in his life so is still in the could be anything category, but made it no further than the opening round of the Kirby. Is clearly much better than that and a repeat of his winning times could carry him a long way.

LENNIES TANK - Paul Hennessy - Lee Craze

Made the semis of the Irish Sprint Cup last year, runner-up recently in the Easter Cup at Shelbourne. His early pace could be a potent weapon to get himself to the front here but 500m around Towcster might just be as far as he wants to go. His opening round heat against Romeo Empire will tell us more in that regard. 

LONGACRES DADDY - Pat Doocey -  Adam Hingley, Pat Doocey

Probably has slightly stronger form over six bends these days at his home track of Monmore but showed what he can do when hitting the lids over 480m there in a March A1, clocking 28.28. Ran well enough in a trial stake last weekend when finishing second but that race was set up for him as the sole wide. Needs more to play a role of any longevity.

LOW PROFILE - Graham Holland - R-t-and-c-syndicate 

Bolted up in a trial stake by eight lengths, stopping the clock in 28.50, doing anything but keep a low profile ahead of this competition. That was his first run since December when he had been behind Yorkie Ollie at Cork. Very few miles on the clock for one of his age. Needs serious consideration if he can repeat that 28.50.

LOXLEYS FOREST - Jason Gray - Robin Hood Racing

A decent performer over both four and six bends, he ran the race of his life when only a length and three-quarters behind Droopys Flare in the opening round of the Queen Mother Cup at Sheffield in March. That was stretches to 11 in the final and he has not been found an easy heat to kick off his Derby campaign.

MALCOLM BOSH - Mrs Angie Kibble - Jonathan Miles

Strong stayer made the final of the Produce Stakes last year when behind his litter brother Eagles Respect. He doesn't possess the same natural pace to the bend that his brother does, so he is always going to be fighting an uphill battle. Could sneak into third a few times in the early rounds to give connections a run for their money.

MULVEYS CHAMP - Ron Peckover - Mr R H Peckover 

Puppy has only had four races so far in his career, winning a trial stake last weekend. He was out with the washing in the JR Racing Puppy Cup opening round and at Hove the following week but his win here was more in line with his debut success at Oxford. Hard to know what to expect with a lack of consistency and his opening round heat is hot enough.

NAOCHRA - John Flaherty - Michael Connolly

The Northern Flat winner at Newcastle last summer, he made the semis of the All England Cup back at that track at Christmas as well as the Ladbrokes Gold Cup and Winter Derby at Monmore. Is a strong type over four bends and has trialled well enough in preparation for this. Splits Underground Gold and Romeo Tomcat in his first round heat, however. 

NEWINN DEEJAY - Mark Wallis - MWD Partnership 

An Olympic finalist last December, he stopped the clock in 28.74 when winning over this 500m test in February. Hasn't been seen since later that same month when checking on the run-up at Romford. His sprint trial was okay but it remains to be seen what level of the can run to pitched straight back into the Derby.

NEWINN OSCAR - Nathan Hunt - Nathan Hunt Racing Club

Nottingham has seen the pick of his form so far in his career, winning in both February and March before finishing a length and three-quarters behind No Better Feelin there. Solo trials here were solid and found trouble in a decent field the only time he has raced here. Has been set a serious task in the opening round though.

NO BETTER FEELIN - Esther Driver - Iffy Trap

A semi-finalist last year, he was one of the stories of the race for connections. He has kept ticking over with some very smart form at Nottingham where he is very hard to beat over 500m before making the finals of the Laurels at Dunstall Park. A long run is possible again but he has been given a tough opening heat. 

NOELLIE - Paul Young - Mr A Head

Sprung a surprise when winning the Coral Gold Collar at Hove in November, seen just once in race action since when failing to beat a rival at Monmore behind Droopys Aladdin. His sprint trial here was better than a pair over four bends, while a draw in the black jacket in his first round heat is difficult.

NOIRS POCKET - Deborah Hurlock - Mrs D K Hurlock

Was quickly stepped up to six bends at Romford by connections after wins in A7 and A6, making an immediate impact with an S1 success. Produced a decent open win at Central Park subsequently but has not seen race action since February 13. Took a fair step forward on his second trial here but hard to think that he'd be capable of winning a Derby. 

NOT SO STEADY - Craig Morris - Mr A Hannah, Mr A J Williams, Mr J Wright 

Runner-up in the JR Racing Juvenile Classic last year, he showed that this track is fine for him then. Made three semis of Cat One competitions since then but didn't make it out of the opening round of the Laurels after a decent trial stake win. A decent type at his best, but his opening round heat is tricky.

OPTIC PHARAOH - Steven Ross Miller - Kenny Glen

Star Pelaw raider has just a win there this year on his card but he was a winner in the opening round of the Maiden Derby at this track in 2025. Third in his semi, he was straight out of the Derby in the opening round and sadly for connections, he looks in need of luck not to make an early exit again.

PRICELESS ROMEO - Paul Hennessy - Mr B Murphy, Mrs K Murphy 

A quarter-finalist in the Irish Derby last year, he has not hit those heights this campaign but he has only had four starts, including a pair of trial stakes. He found early trouble after steady starts in the two of those. This requires a step up on that form which is likely but other kennelmates make more appeal.

PROPER HEIRESS - Mark Wallis - MWD Partnership

Has been campaigned completely differently to last year when he was already on his 11th race of the year in the opening round after making three Cat One finals. He was runner-up in his bid to go back-to-back in the Kent Plate but there was no disgrace getting beaten by a superb winner there in Scooby The Lady. An Irish Derby finalist last year, a deep run awaits.

QUILL QUIDS - Esther Driver - Mr.P.A.Sallis - 

Went out in a hot opening round heat last year, he showed his class with a run to the final of the Sussex Cup at Hove. Has been successful in both of his starts in 2026, the most recent of those against Romeo Empire over six bends at Dunstall Park. Further does look to suit now, might struggle to strike a blow against quicker rivals. 

RACKETHALL BRUTE - Mark Wallis - MWD Partnership

Chased home Bockos Diamond in the second round last year but missed his intended engagement the next week, taken out lame. Made the final of the Gold Collar at Hove in November and has looked like he is in need over further these days in outings so far in 2026. Has drawn a deep heat, so might need a bit of luck.

RADICAL STORY - Craig Morris - Mr C R Morris

Off the mark at the seventh time of asking last time out, stepped up to 712m here. Produced 28.69 calc in a subsequent trial here which is a time that would see him in with a squeak of the second half of the competition if he were able to do it consistently. That is the big question that he is going to have to answer.

RAGDOLL ROSIE - Richie Taberner - Tony Brealey

Showed some fair form working through the grades at both Swindon and Oxford but was turned over in an A6 at Monmore two starts back. Even in an easier first round heat than she has been given, she would've made limited appeal on the form in the book.

RAPIDO BENNY - Ricky Holloway - Mr H J Jakobsen

Winner of the recent Puppy Cup at Hove, he clocked a fair 29.16 in a trial here ahead of that competition. Should have plenty of confidence coming in, but despite that recent success, the level of the rest of his form needs plenty of improving upon.

REBEL ALASKA - Kevin Hutton - Mr W C McMahon, Mr G P Shelley, Mr G J Thompson

Winner of the BetGoodwin Maiden  Series at Oxford in December, he took the scalp of Swords Style in a trial stake for this competition when the Graham Holland runner was having his first look at the track. Tends to turn closer to last than first which is making things tricky but does have the stamina to potentially keep grabbing a qualifying spot.

ROBBIES GLORY - Barrie Backhurst - Mrs J A Simpson

Hasn't raced over further than 480m since his race debut back in September 2024. Picked up a win at Romford last time when dipping under 24 seconds which was a solid enough display but easy enough to think that this is going to be well out of his comfort zone. 

ROMEO ABILITY - Patrick Janssens - David Firmager 

Six times a Category One finalist, he is still waiting for his moment in the sun and a victory in one of them. Two of those were over this track and trip, and his general level of form is consistent enough to make him a player. An opening round heat drawn outside of Proper Heiress will give him an immediate test, however.

ROMEO ARRAN - Patrick Janssens - David Firmager

Never got involved in the final of the Gymcrack at the weekend, the three rounds there the first three runs of his life. Clocke 29.09 in a solo trial here before heading to Yorkshire but even that might not be enough in one of the hottest heats of the opening round.

ROMEO EMPIRE - Patrick Janssens - David Firmager 

Quietly fancied for the competition last year, he made it to the quarter-final stage but couldn't pick up the quicker types as the competition progressed. Did well when stepped up in trip, and although he made it through to the final of the BGBF British Breeders Stakes at Nottingham, the suspicion is that others will be too fleet of foot for him once more. 

ROMEO TOMCAT - Patrick Janssens - David Firmager

A third round casualty in 2025, he went on to land the Derby Plate on final night before taking the Yorkshire and Kent Derbys in the autumn. Kicked off his 2026 campaign with another Cat One success in the BGBF British Breeders Stakes at Nottingham. All of which makes him one of the top home contenders for Derby glory

SALACRES AMARA - Peter Harnden - Mr P H Harnden, Mr L Pitman 

Local grader has hit a groove this spring, landing D3, D2 and D1 contests before an A4 when back over four bends last time out. She clocked a decent time there but this is very different company to be taking on. Has a tough enough starting point but she has her draw in red.

SALACRES LINCOLN - Peter Harnden - Mr P H Harnden, Mr L Pitman

Pitched into the British Bred Derby on just his fourth career start in December, making it out of his heat. Landed a trial stake on his most recent outing, producing a 29.03 effort. That was a clear career best and there should be more to come but there will need to be to make a lasting impact in the competition. 

SALACRES LOCK UP - Peter Harnden - Mr P H Harnden

Has taken the step up from graded to open racing in his stride this year. Was deeply impressive on his last race start, using his brute early to get out and away in a notable 28.61 calc time. 500m is as far as he wants and he has been unfortunate to draw a heat with the similarly fast-starting Lennies Eddie on his inside but his raw pace could carry him through a few rounds.

SALACRES LUCIA - Peter Harnden - Mr P H Harnden, Mr L Pitman 

Made her 500m debut in a trial stake, taking the scalp of Bombay Nutty that day. Not as good in a couple of starts since but she is only an October 24 whelp, so there should be any amount of improvement still to come from her. Likely to find her opening heat too tough but she strikes as a nice type for later in the year. 

SALTHILL SYDNEY - Ron Peckover - Mr R H Peckover

The majority of his best form in recent years has come over 650m around Oxford but he was runner-up to Ballymac Kobe and then Carrick Scholsey in a pair of trial stakes, showing plenty of pace in both. That extra stamina could be handy if he can find his way out of a heat that contains a rematch with Carrick Scholsey. 

SCOOBY THE LADY - Richard Rees - Mr S Noble 

Looked a fair recruit last year with a pair of Hove wins but has absolutely taken off this year, setting a new track record in the final of the Kent Plate at Central Park when slamming a deep field that contained Proper Heiress and Droopys Graph amongst others. Unlucky in the Time Juvenile on her first race at this track and has to be a serious player.

SHUDACUDAWOUDA - Brendan Matthews - Mr B Matthews 

Made the quarter-final stage of the Kirby in his most recent race, just the eighth start of his career. Shaped well on his first look at Towcester in a trial but has drawn a hot heat. Going to need some luck to get through that opening round but could build into the competition if he can.

SILVERHILL ADAM - Mark Wallis - MWD Partnership

Won his first three starts at this track upon arriving from Ireland in the second half of 2024 before missing 13 months with injury. Did everything wrong in his Kent Plate semi-final on his most recent start but only missed out on qualifying by a short head. Has plenty of class about him but he needs to be right at the top of his game if he is to go more than a few rounds.

SINGALONG POLLY - Pat Buckley - Gilbert Anderson

Third in the final of the Christmas Oaks at Shelbourne last December, she has been seen in race action just once in 2026 in the Cesarewitch at Mullingar when filling the same finishing position. Has plenty of staimina, sent over six bends at the Winter Festival for a win and arrives without a look which will make things tougher. 

SLICK SENTINEL - Patrick Janssens - Mr K R Allsop 

Like Silverhill Adam, a slow start cost him a chance of making the Kent Plate final, third in his semi, three-quarters of a length off qualifying. He was a semi-finalist in the Derby last year, winning the Juvenile Classic here in the summer of 2024. Has a real affinity for this circuit and is as consistent as the day is long. Another year older but has to be respected. 

SLICK SKYLARK - Patrick Janssens - Keith Allsop

Has a pair of sub-29 times here in four visits this year, picking up a couple of wins at Central Park to boot. She has struggled to follow up one win with another and her last four wins have all come when she has been odds on, so fully expected to do the business. Strong over this trip is a positive for her but she has a trappy opening round heat to overcome.

SLIPPERY BRIAN - Graham Holland - Larry Dunne 

Another in here who made the final of the Connaught Derby at Galway, he has made an excellent impression in his two trial stake wins, stopping the clock in 28.65 and 28.62. Has trapped well in both of those starts and appears to have taken a real shine to the track. Has to be an interesting one for the kennel at a decent price.

SNAZZY BOLGER - Robert Copping - Mr M J Reditt

Has made a promising start to his career, winning three of his first five starts on three different tracks. The lack of a look around is not such a concern given that adaptability but it does put him at a disadvantage coming into the first round. Would be a surprise to see him go more than a few rounds but does look a nice recruit for the future.

SOAPY SUDS - Debbie Calvert - Soapy Racing

Was sent off favourite for the bet365 English Puppy Oaks final at Oxford back in December where a troubled run around cost her any chance. Has plenty of stamina, making a seamless transition to six bends on her most recent race start. Perhaps her most interesting run came at Doncaster in January when coming from behind the future Kirby winner Bouncing Monarch to pick him up. Could be an under the radar type for top bitch.

SOLE FOCUS - Debbie Calvert - CP Racing

Another Debbie Calvert runner, he got back to winning ways at Sunderland last time out having got picked up by stronger stayers a couple of times over Doncaster's 483m. That track and trip takes more getting than 500m around Towcester but the suspicion is that the 460m trip here would be more to his liking. Bundles of early might get him though a couple of rounds. 

STRIKE IT SKYE - Mark Wallis - MWD Partnership

Another who will have designs on the top bitch in the competition, she picked the wrong time to miss the break in the Coral Brighton Belle final which left her with an uphill task. An Empress Stakes finalist here in September before making the semis of the Oaks, she has to be a player to at least make the latter stages.

SWIFT MAGNISON - Nick Deas - Star Racing

Boasts plenty of early boot, winning a couple of races over track and trip using that to good effect. Got a decision over King Memphis in one of those, a comfortable scorer of a trial stake in the other. In with some strong stayers in his heat, so it will be interesting to see how that contest pans out.

SWORDS STYLE - Graham Holland - Barbara Lowndes

Winner of the Juvenile, he has impressed with his pace to the bend in his Towcester runs. Made the final of the Tote Gold Cup prior to that so has the experience of a competition. The red jacket might not be his ideal starting position in the opening round but he has shown so much speed, he has to be a leading player for outright glory.

TEDDIE - Belinda Green - Gary Whittington, William Boyle, Keane Barry, Oli Suter

Runner-up in the Brighton Belle last time out, a competition that she went out in the semis of last year before heading here and getting knocked out in the third round. Stays this distance well and is clearly on good terms with herself at present. Drawn wider than ideal in her heat but should make a run to at least a similar stage again.

TEEJAYS CHELMS - Paul Young - Terry Nichols, Paul Young 

Was a big talking dog ahead of the Derby last year after his £25,500 purchase at the pre-Derby sales but only made it as far as the second round and has not been seen in a race since. Trials have been fair enough but it's hard to know exactly what to expect of him going into the competition. 

TEEJAYS BUDDY - Paul Young - T Nichols, A Williams 

Had a ridiculous amount of bad luck in just 10 starts in Ireland but there have been some flashes there that he is a decent dog when he puts it all together. Was a 28.13 Shelbourne winner on his race debut, bought for £19,000 from the same Towcester sales that connections bought Teejays Chelms from last year. Wider than ideal draw in his opening round heat but has trialled well.

TEXAS JACK - Richard Rees - Mr D I Bear

Has been done no favours in the draw for the opening round, ending up in one of the deepest overall heats. Didn't get the rub of the green in a trial stake here on his first run since the final of the Winter Derby where he ended up as the reason for the re-run. Was a finalist in the Kent Derby last year so he has the class to make an impact if making it through.

THE OTHER CHIEF - Maxine Locke - JR Racing Syndicate

There have been some flashes of absolute brilliance from him in his career but he has been plagued by finding the trouble spots. Was a semi-finalist in the Kent Plate and has plenty of sub 29 second form here, so the natural ability is there to make a deep run if he is able to pick a path around. 

THE OTHER KODI - Barry Denby - Mr B Denby

In excellent form at his home track of Nottingham of late, rattling off a hat-trick of wins. Entitled to come on for his sole look at this track where a 3.87 split is notable given that the track was -30. Getting out of his heat might be the best that he can hope for but he represents the reigning Oaks winning trainer and stranger things have happened.  

THIS APPROACH - Ricky Holloway - Mr R J Holloway, Mr L P Ponder

A big money purchase at the recent Towcester sales, the hammer dropping at £19,250. He won his first start for his new connections in a trial stake, showing the best zip to the bend to go around in front. Should make it through his heat which is always the first step, and it will be interesting to see how he fares flanked by a pair of quick starters. Is still a relatively blank page, and there are worse outsiders. 

THOR ODINSON - Laura Pruhs - Mr D S J Titterton

Yet to win away from Monmore, running with credit in a string of trial stakes here. Stays well over this trip, giving a bold sight the other week at Doncaster over six bends. Making it into the second round would probably be a success for him.

TIFFIELD TARQUIN - Roy Peckham - Mr W M McColl, Mrs J M McColl 

An easy dog to like, he has shown the best form of his career so far this year, winning the Essex Vase to kick off his campaign. A quarter-finalist last year, he missed out by a length and a quarter on a spot in the final 12. Takes on a tough enough opening heat against the likes of Swords Style but he should make another run into the second half of the competition. 

TODDYS STORM - Tom Heilbron - Mr A Todd, Mr G Todd, Mr N Todd

Announced herself in no uncertain terms on her debut for Tom Heilbron, smashing out at Newcastle to a 28.39 success. Missed the kick the next week but showed what she can do when only going under by three-quarters of a length in a trial her behind Droopys Bookem. Vulnerable late that day, she probably needs to lead up to progress for as long as she stays in.

TODDYS TANK - Tom Heilbron - Mr A Todd, Mr G Todd, Mr N Todd

Had a busy second half of 2025, making the finals of the All England Cup as well as the Birmingham Cup, plus the semis of the  Steel City Cup. Kicked off 2026 with a semi-final appearance in the Winter Derby before trialling well enough here. Takes on an Irish Derby winner and the track record holder in his heat so will have to be on top of his game.

TURNTHEMAGICON - Maxine Locke - Pompey Ventures 

Early pace is the name of the game, making an immediate impact last summer at Monmore despite still looking green. Only missed out by three-quarters of a length on a spot in the final of the National Sprint in December and that is probably a more natural move for one of his speed than this stiffer track over 500m.

UNANIMOUS LEO - Pat Buckley - Mr C O'Sullivan

An Irish Derby quarter-finalist last year, he won his opening and third round heats, the second of those the last time that he got his head in front in a race. Has made the semis of the Irish Laurels and the Connaught Derby since that success but his kennel would hold some stronger chances of winners of this race.  

UNASSUMING - Brendan Matthews - Mr B Matthews 

Exited the Kirby in the second round when last seen in action, though the first two home in that heat were Bockos Gold and Ballymac Setanta who made the final. Fluffed the start in her only trial here but still clocked 29.06 calc despite that. Can get through a couple of rounds.

UNCLE KEITH - Mark Robinson - Mr J A Burke-Ryan, Mr M Robinson 

Another to get knocked out in the second round of the Kirby. He was only three and a half lengths behind Ballymac Duffle in his initial heat there and that runner has been mentioned plenty by decent judges ahead of the Derby. The lack of a look here is a worry, so others hold stronger claims.  

UNDERGROUND GOLD - Paul Young - The Underground Syndicate

Spectacular when wining the Ladbrokes Puppy Derby final at Monmore, displaying blistering early pace and setting serious. times. The going has not been conducive to him to produce anything stunning in warmup trials for this and the record of Puppy Derby winners here has not been good in recent years but he has a chance to put that record straight.  

UNDERGROUND JIM - Paul Young - Jim Cornish, Alan Heard, Ron Jennings, Adam Williams 

The pick of his Irish form came over extended four bends and probably his 575m Romford win was his best effort on these shores. Shaped well enough in a couple of trials but is in a difficult heat and that could be a stumbling block early if they don't fall back to him late on.

UNTHINKABLE - Seamus Cahill - Mr S A Cahill, Mrs T J Cahill

Probably better suited to six bends than four these days, tending to turn closer to last than first when seen over four at Hove of late. He has been doing some good work late on there but the lack of form here makes this look a difficult task.

WESTFIELD FORNO - Jason Smith - Pandoras Minders

A litter sister to Craig Morris's smart sprinter Nightingale Crew, she has less early pace and more stamina than he does. Capable of better than she showed in a recent trial stake but has been drawn in one of the toughest heats, so qualifying for round two would be a success for her.

WESTFIELD VICKY - Jason Smith - Pandoras Minders

Was a little disappointing at Star Pelaw last weekend when contesting the 100th race of her career. That was not an ideal prep for this. Although she has plenty of decent form over four and six bends at Suffolk Downs, this is a very different kettle of fish. Realistically, she is going to have to produce a career-best to make the second round draw.

YORKIE OLLIE - Graham Holland - Mr M Hennessy, Mr A M Sheils

Bolted up in a pair of trial stakes last year before an injury cost him the chance of participating in the competition. Produced decent wins in February at both Clonmel and Shelbourne to suggest that there is still plenty of ability in the tank. Sprint trial here was no more than fair, however, and the red jacket in the first round has not been a good starting slot for him in the past.

ZENITH ASLAN - Richard Rees - Mr V P J Cooper, Mr B Nadir

Won on his English debut at Hove last August but has not managed to get his head back in front since. Admittedly that has only been six starts but he has not been seen in race action since January 3. Trialled ok but is in a tricky heat and it's hard to know what he is capable of these days under race conditions. 

ZENITH JIMBOMBOM - David Mullins - Mr V P J Cooper, Mr B Nadir 

Got the job done in a trial stake in decent fashion, a 28.75 calc time there right up with the best efforts of his career. Three times he has made the semis of a Cat One,  the most recent of those coming at Central Park in the Kent Plate. Is in a five dog heat but there is plenty of quality around him, so it is no easy start to proceedings. 

ZENITH LEGEND - David Mullins - Mr V P J Cooper, Mr B Nadir 

Has done well since being stepped up to six bends this year with wins at Romford, Central Park and Monmore. Is going to need things to drop right in front of him but could sneak through a couple of rounds, picking up some of the shorter runners late on.

ZENITH PASHA - James Fenwick - Mr B Nadir

Beautifully bred, he shot straight onto the scene with a 28.42 debut success at Shelbourne last July. Has been limited in his action since then, making the second round of the Kirby before being transferred into the card of Jimmy Fenwick. Lacks a look but has the ability to get through a few rounds if he takes to the track.

ZENITH SULTAN - Richard Rees - Mr V P J Cooper, Mr.B.Nadir 

Missed out on a spot in the Winter Derby decider by half a length back in February, that Monmore 480 just not quite a stiff enough test for him. Made the same stage of the Kent Derby last autumn but has not been seen in race action since the end of February. A recent trial should have blown the cobwebs away but it will need improving upon if he is to make an impact in a difficult opening round heat.