Kerry trainer Liam Dowling will have his sights firmly set on capturing one of the few remaining major titles missing from his illustrious career when the final of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial takes place this weekend at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.
Renowned as one of the sport’s leading figures, Dowling has enjoyed outstanding success at the very highest level, including victories in both the Irish Greyhound Derby and English Greyhound Derby. However, despite his extensive list of honours, the prestigious Kirby Memorial has so far eluded the Kerry handler.
That could be about to change.
Dowling will be represented in this year’s €80,000-to-the-winner final by the hugely impressive Ballymac Setanta, who has emerged as one of the standout performers in the competition. A dominant semi-final winner, Ballymac Setanta produced a powerful front-running display to score in 27.97, reinforcing his position as a leading contender heading into the decider.
Showing exceptional early pace and race craft throughout the competition, Ballymac Setanta has gone from strength to strength with each outing. His ability to take control early and dictate from the front makes him a major threat in a final that is stacked with quality.
While the challenge will be formidable, with strong opposition from the likes of Graham Holland’s unbeaten Bockos Gold, Dowling’s experience on the biggest stage cannot be underestimated. Having guided numerous champions to Classic success, he will be aiming to add yet another major prize to his collection and, in doing so, finally secure the Kirby crown.
All roads lead to Limerick this weekend, where Dowling and Ballymac Setanta will bid to write their names into Kirby history. Gates open at Limerick Greyhound Stadium from 6.30pm. The final is also being broadcast live on Virgin Media 2 from 9.00pm – 10.00pm.
