Betfair Official Blog

Paddy positive about Derby chances

Ian Reilly has delivered an upbeat bulletin about Phoenix Paddy ahead of the third round of the Greyhound Derby.

The handler, who won the 2004 Derby with Droopys Scholes, could be forgiven for having his doubts after a draw that has seen his charge poised against Irish compatriots, Loyal Honcho and Express Ego, but Reilly remained confident of success following news of the draw.

He told the Racing Post: "We could have done without such a hard race at this stage but I am sure the other trainers will be thinking the same.

"The draw should suit him fine and I am hopeful he will lead up and make all.

"This has to be one of the best Derby's I've ever seen and it will take a very, very good dog to win it but I've always believed Paddy was a bit special and I wouldn't swap him for any other."

Having accounted for Westmead Lord at the weekend, Phoenix Paddy can currently be backed at 7.8 on the outright market for the Premier classic.

Droopys Robinho (10.5), who has enjoyed mixed fortunes thus far, appears to have secured one of the easier heats of the competition, and Fraser Black's dog has remained a popular call with the backers.

Racing Post Juvenile victor, Express Ego (13), completes the "greenwash" for the Irish trained runners at the top of the market, but his present form in the competition has not lived up to pre-competition hype. Well held in his two heats thus far, the layers that successfully opposed Fear Haribo, may possibly be investing their returns against Owen McKenna's dog.

The third round of the Greyhound Derby continues on Saturday.