The countdown to the 2026 BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby officially began this week as the launch event took place at the famous Riverside Kennels of five-time Derby-winning trainer Graham Holland.
Representatives from Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI) and title sponsor BOYLE Sports joined Holland at his Tipperary base to mark the launch of this year’s competition, where the trainer showcased some of the stars that have delivered Derby success throughout his illustrious career, including last year’s champion Cheap Sandwiches.
The 2026 competition will mark the 13th consecutive year that BOYLE Sports has sponsored the Irish Greyhound Derby, continuing its long-standing commitment to one of the most iconic events in Irish sport.
Commenting on the launch, Liam McKee, Head of Sponsorship at BOYLE Sports, said:
“BOYLE Sports is incredibly proud to continue our partnership with the Irish Greyhound Derby, an event that consistently delivers unforgettable moments and stories that capture the imagination of racing fans.
“Launching this year’s event at Riverside Kennels with Graham Holland was a fantastic way to begin the countdown, and we’re excited to see the next chapter of history unfold in the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.”
The prestigious competition will get underway on Friday 7th August with the 2026 BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby final taking place on Saturday 12th September at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium.
Tim Lucey, CEO of Greyhound Racing Ireland, added:
"The BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby remains the pinnacle of greyhound racing in Ireland and one of the most prestigious sporting competitions on our calendar. The launch at Riverside Kennels was a fitting way to begin the journey to this year’s Derby, celebrating the excellence, dedication and passion that define our sport.
“On behalf of Greyhound Racing Ireland, I would like to sincerely thank John Boyle and the entire BOYLE Sports team for their unwavering support and commitment over the past 13 years. Their partnership has played a significant role in the continued growth and success of the Irish Greyhound Derby.
“We look forward to welcoming owners, trainers, supporters and racing fans from across Ireland and beyond to Shelbourne Park for what promises to be another outstanding BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby."
The BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby 2026 dates for your diary:
Monday 3rd August 2026: Trap Draw
Friday 7th & Saturday 8th August: 1st Round
Friday 14th & Saturday 15th August: 2nd Round
Saturday 22nd August: 3rd Round
Saturday 29th August: Quarter-Finals
Saturday 5th September: Semi-Finals
Saturday 12th September: Finals
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