Bouncing Monarch sets early standard on opening night of 2026 Con and Annie Kirby Memorial

LIMERICK Greyhound Stadium played host to a spectacular opening night of the 2026 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial on Saturday, as thirteen high-quality heats produced a series of outstanding performances and set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling renewal of the Classic.

Kindly sponsored by JP & Noreen McManus in memory of Noreens parents - Con & Annie, the prestigious event got underway in style, with UK challenger Bouncing Monarch delivering the standout performance of the night.

Trained by Tipperary based trainer Michael O’Donovan, the impressive winner of heat six stopped the clock in a scintillating 27.97, the only greyhound to break the 28-second barrier and the fastest time across the thirteen heats.

The overall standard was exceptionally high, with ten heat winners recording times under 28.20, underlining the depth and quality in this year’s competition.

Ante-post favourite Ballymac Setanta further enhanced his credentials with a dominant display in heat ten for Kerry trainer Liam Dowling. Showing explosive early pace, he quickly asserted control before powering home to score by five lengths in 28.00, marking himself as a leading contender for outright honours.

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There were also notable performances from Ballycowen Frank, who provided Michael O’Donovan with a double on the night, and Ballymac Duffle, who shed his maiden tag in impressive fashion.

Champion trainer Graham Holland who is based in Golden, Co. Tipperary, made an early statement in his bid for a fourth Con & Annie Kirby title, recording a treble of winners courtesy of Bockos Gold, Ballydoyle Tina, and Beanos Yank, the latter delivering a particularly emphatic ten-length success.

Kilkenny trainer Paul Hennessy also enjoyed a successful night with a double, as Lennies Dynamic and Jaykay Fly both impressed, while Ello Ello and Getup The Boy produced eye-catching performances to land their respective heats.

The concluding contests went the way of Powerhouse Major and Zenith Pasha, bringing an action-packed opening round to a close.

Commenting on the opening night, Director of Racing for GRI Derek Frehill said: "The Con & Annie Kirby Memorial consistently delivers one of the highest standards of racing on the calendar, and Saturday night was no exception. To see ten heat winners break 28.20 at this stage of the competition is a real testament to the quality of greyhounds competing.

"Bouncing Monarch’s performance was exceptional, but there were numerous standout runs across the card that highlight just how competitive this year’s event will be. It sets us up perfectly for the rounds ahead."

With a remarkable level of consistency and several standout displays already recorded, the 2026 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions in recent years.

Racing continues next weekend at Limerick Greyhound Stadium as the remaining rounds on Saturday night promise even more excitement in the race for Classic glory.  Gates open at 6.30pm and all details can be found on www.LimerickGreyhoundStadium.ie.