PICTURES: Limerick GAA and greyhound community out in support of Con & Annie Kirby Memorial

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THE 2026 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial continued in spectacular fashion at Limerick Greyhound Stadium last Saturday night, with the second round living up to – and arguably surpassing – the exceptional opening weekend.
Across eight fiercely competitive heats, seven of the winners maintained their unbeaten records, underlining the remarkable strength in depth in this year’s competition.
The highlight of the night came from the sensational Ballydoyle Tina, who produced a stunning performance to stop the clock in 27.87 – just 0.04 seconds outside the track record.
Trained in Tipperary by three-time winning trainer of the Con & Annie Kirby, Graham Holland, Ballydoyle Tina justified favouritism with a dazzling display of early pace and sustained power. Exploding from traps, she asserted dominance and never looked in danger, stretching clear to win by eight and a half lengths.

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Her blistering run firmly establishes her as one of the leading contenders heading into the quarter-finals.
Bouncing Monarch continued his impressive return to Irish racing with another sub-28 second run, claiming heat seven in 27.98 for trainer Michael O’Donovan. Showing pace and control throughout, he remains a major player in the competition.
One of the standout clashes of the night saw Bockos Gold get the better of hot favourite Ballymac Setanta. Producing electric early speed, Bockos Gold powered clear to win convincingly in 28.00, marking himself as a serious contender for outright honours.
Graham Holland completed a notable treble on the night as Beanos Yank followed up his opening round success with another commanding performance, holding off strong late challengers to score in 28.22.
There was further confirmation of emerging stars and shifting dynamics throughout the card - Ello Ello backed up his shock first-round victory with another dominant display; Getup The Boy showcased experience and strength to win impressively and advance comfortably; Cushie Flytplan delivered one of the most emphatic victories of the night, powering home by seven and a half lengths and Ballymac Duffle maintained his unbeaten record with a determined performance to make it two wins from two.
Following the action, the draw for the quarter-finals was made, with 24 greyhounds remaining in contention for one of the sport’s most prestigious prizes. With standout performers, unbeaten runners and several eye-catching improvers still in the mix, the stage is now set for a thrilling next phase.
As the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial moves into the quarter-final stage, anticipation continues to build. With Ballydoyle Tina’s near record-breaking run setting the benchmark, the question is whether any rival can match her brilliance.
The action continues Saturday night with gates open from 6.30pm and a schedule of Easter family fun planned for all the junior members in attendance. Patrons are reminded that children under 12 go free.