2026 Con and Annie Kirby Memorial Stake launched at Limerick Greyhound Stadium

THE 2026 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial has been officially launched at Limerick Greyhound Stadium, marking the beginning of what promises to be another thrilling renewal of the prestigious competition.

Now in its 13th year, the event has become one of the highlights of the Irish greyhound racing calendar. Generously sponsored by JP McManus and Noreen McManus, the competition is widely recognised for its unique community element, which sees every Limerick GAA club assigned a greyhound in a special Nominator Competition.

The clubs whose greyhounds reach the final on Saturday, 18 April will share in a €20,000 prize fund, with the winning nominating club receiving €10,000 and a complimentary benefit night at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.

Ballybrown GAA claimed the nominator title in 2025 and will be among the many clubs hoping to repeat that success this year.

The 2026 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial will commence this Saturday, March 21, with the opening round of the competition. The event has grown into the richest juvenile greyhound race in the world, boasting a total prize fund of €160,000, including a top prize of €80,000 for the winning connections.

READ NEXT: PICTURES: Supporters cheer on Limerick and Wexford in National Camogie League clash

Last year's winning greyhound was Faypoint Ranger, whose trainer Graham Holland has enjoyed title success at 3 finals, and is hoping to bring that tally to 4 in 2026!

Greyhound fans and local communities can also look forward to a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the competition, with a full programme of entertainment and community activities planned on each race night.

The trap draw took place live on Facebook on Monday, Marc 16, with the club nominator draw later that evening, setting the stage for the opening round just days later.

Event Schedule

Round 1 – Saturday, March 21 Clubs are reminded to ensure their nominations are registered ahead of the draw.
Round 2 – Saturday, March 28 Cumann na mBunscol celebrations
Quarter-Finals – Saturday, April 4, Easter family fun activities and live music after racing.
Semi-Finals – Saturday, April 11 Cic & Poc Fada competition.
Final – Saturday, April 18 Support your club and cheer on the finalists on a memorable community night at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.

THE final will be broadcast live on Virgin Media Two from 9–10pm on April 18, with live music after racing to round off the evening.