Tipperary trainer Graham Holland makes history with sixth Irish Derby triumph
Golden-based handler claims record-breaking third successive Derby title as Bockos Gold storms to victory in the fastest winning time in the Classic’s history
Greyhound Trainer Graham Holland created history on Saturday night as Bockos Gold produced a sensational performance to capture the 2026 BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne Park, handing the Tipperary handler a record-breaking sixth Derby title.
Based in Golden, Holland further cemented his place among the sport's all-time greats by securing a third consecutive Derby success, with Bockos Gold following in the footsteps of his previous champions Rural Hawaii, Lenson Bocko, Newinn Taylor, Bockos Diamond and Cheap Sandwiches.
In front of a packed Shelbourne Park crowd and a vibrant atmosphere befitting Irish greyhound racing's greatest event, Bockos Gold delivered a display of pace, power and determination to secure his place in Derby history.
Breaking smartly from traps, Bockos Gold was prominent throughout the early exchanges as race favourite Bouncing Monarch led around the opening bend. The complexion of the contest changed on the run to the back straight, however, when Bockos Gold seized his opportunity after some crowding among the leading challengers.
Taking control at halfway, the powerful son of Ballymac Bolger and Seaglass Shadow quickly asserted and drew clear of his rivals. Turning for home with daylight between himself and the field, Bockos Gold was greeted by a thunderous reception from the Shelbourne Park crowd as he powered home to score by four lengths in 29.05, setting a new benchmark as the fastest Irish Derby winner of all time.
Sleight Of Hand finished a gallant second, with Bouncing Monarch overcoming early race difficulties to claim third. Wi Can James, Im Here and Hackney Dancer completed the finishing order.
The victory sparked jubilant scenes in the winner's enclosure as members of the Jolly Good Company Syndicate celebrated alongside the Holland family, winning breeder Shari-Anne O'Donnell and supporters from across the country.
Greyhound Racing Ireland Director of Racing Derek Frehill hailed both the new champion and his trainer following another memorable Derby Final, "Bockos Gold produced a performance worthy of one of the greatest stages in Irish greyhound racing. To run 29.05 in a Derby Final and become the fastest winner in the history of the Classic is a remarkable achievement.”
He continued, “Graham Holland's record speaks for itself. To win six Irish Greyhound Derby titles, including three in succession, is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to the consistency, dedication and professionalism of his entire team in Golden.
The atmosphere at Shelbourne Park was exceptional, and the huge attendance witnessed a truly historic performance from a greyhound who will be remembered for many years to come."
The victory secured the €125,000 first prize for connections and ensured that Bockos Gold's name will forever be etched into the rich history of the Irish Greyhound Derby, joining the ranks of the sport's most celebrated champions.