RACE PROGRAMME
Saturday 19th April 2025
Kindly sponsored by Noreen & JP McManus
Welcome by Pat Flanagan Chair, Rásaíocht Con Éireann
It is a privilege to extend a warm welcome, on behalf of Rásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ), to the trainers, owners, sponsors, and supporters assembled at Limerick Greyhound Stadium this evening for the thrilling conclusion of the 12th Con and Annie Kirby Memorial.
This annual showpiece event is a celebration of community and the unifying power of our sport. It stands as a high point on the Irish greyhound racing calendar, drawing significant support from across the wider community in Limerick and the Mid West region.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to JP and Noreen McManus, whose generous backing has elevated this competition into one of the world’s premier juvenile greyhound racing events.
Leading up to this exciting finale, more than 70 greyhounds from across Ireland have competed over four action-packed weekends.
The Con and Annie Kirby Memorial has distributed close to €2 million in prize money over the years, including €240,000 donated to local GAA clubs through a special fund established by JP and Noreen.
The spotlight now shines on tonight’s contenders as we await the crowning of the 2025 Kirby Memorial champion and discover who will follow the 2024 winner, Knockeen Dazzler, trained by 17-year-old Daniel O’Rahilly of Castleisland in County Kerry.
The victor will take home €80,000, while six local clubs - representing GAA, LGFA, Camogie, and Handball - will divide a €20,000 prize pot.
I offer my sincere gratitude and praise to the RCÉ and Limerick Greyhound Stadium teams, whose dedication has made this one-of-a-kind event possible.
I hope you all enjoy an unforgettable evening of racing, and I offer my best wishes to the finalists and their teams in this exciting conclusion to the competition.
Go raibh míle maith agaibh.
Le meas,
Pat Flanagan Chair, Rásaíocht Con Éireann
Welcome Note
from Seamus Mac Conmara, Cathaoirleach
Tonight’s final of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Stake is the twelfth running of this most prestigious sporting event. Limerick GAA clubs have benefited financially to the tune of two hundred and twenty thousand euro before tonight’s event takes place. What has really impressed me and I know has also very much impressed the event sponsor, is the commendable manner in which our clubs that tasted success have reinvested their prize money so wisely in their various development projects.
The unselfish generosity, the sporting passion and above all the love of all things Limerick shown by JP and Noreen Mc Manus and their family never ceases to amaze. Your ongoing and loyal financial support of Limerick GAA is greatly appreciated, supporting our Clubs through the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Stake and supporting our county through our sponsorship arrangement with Adare Manor Hotel. Mile Buíochas once again from all at Limerick County GAA Board.
It has been a pleasure for Limerick GAA to work through this event with the Chairman of Greyhound Racing Ireland Pat Flanagan, C.E.O Tim Lucey and of course Orla Strumble, Thomas Ryan, Dawn Quinn, and their colleagues at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.
Finally, thanks to all of our clubs across Limerick Gaa, Camogie, Ladies Football and Handball for your participation in this event and indeed for your co-operation during same and good luck again to tonight’s six finalists.
Seamus Mac Conmara
Cathaoirleach
DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS A ON
SITE FOR EVERY NIGHT OF RACING VETERINARY
Their responsibilities include:
Being present at the weighing in of greyhounds to ensure all greyhounds are healthy and fit to race
To provide emergency care to any greyhound injured during racing
To examine any greyhounds that are brought to the attention of the vet by the stewards
To visually assess all greyhounds post racing
Know Did You
That our industry charity is the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust and that they have helped to rehome 8,000 greyhounds over the past 5 years.
RCÉ spent €4.1 million in 2024 on Traceability, Care & Welfare of Greyhounds.
That Irish greyhounds are not only rehomed in Ireland but across Europe and the USA.
One Of The Most Sought After Classics! The Story So Far!
by Peter Farrell
So much as the prestige that hangs over the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial, breeders far and wide pinpoint this competition as a focal point in their bid to unmask the next major canine athlete. As a result, it has rightly taken its place alongside the likes of the Irish Derby as one of the most sought after Classics in Irish Greyhound Racing.
When Roxholme Bully landed the inaugural Con & Annie Kirby Memorial in 2013, the richest juvenile event in the world has consistently gathered momentum over the years and we arrive tonight with six outstanding finalists, who will no doubt follow a similar script to previous finalists in dominating all of the major competitions in the weeks and months to follow.
Of course, this flagship event would not be possible without the exceptional generosity and continuous support of our sponsors, JP and Noreen McManus. Boasting an incredible prize fund of €160,000, this event, which is named in honour of Noreen’s parents, is headed only by the Irish Greyhound Derby in terms of monetary value, however, it has the added ingredient of bringing another passion of the McManus Family into play, the GAA. While the winning greyhound will receive a superb €80,000 for its connections, the associated GAA club will also receive a lucrative €20,000, while €10,000 will also be allocated to each club represented by a finalist. Indeed, this has proved a magnificent concept over the years to bring two great sporting communities together and it would be remiss not to extend heartfelt gratitude to the McManus Family at every opportunity.
THRILLS & SPILLS IN THE OPENER
Prior to the magnificent victory of Daniel O’Rahilly’s Knockeen Dazzler in 2024, Graham Holland had a tight grip over the Kirby having landed the 2022 and 2023 feature with the equally sensational Swords Rex and Clonbrien Treaty.
In typical fashion from the Golden handler, he was strongly represented in the renewal and his team got off to a blistering start with first round wins from both Faypoint Ranger (28.30) and Brideside Bill (28.33). The former in particular was a leading fancy for outright glory having impressed so much in the Rural Kennels Unraced at Clonmel and given the manner of which he dispatched some talented rivals in heat ten, all signs were positive for a deep dive into this prestigious event. Indeed, both William Hyslop and Robert Gleeson teamed up to win the 2019 running of this event with Toolmaker Josie and the same connections saw the hugely powerful Toolmaker Josepe set off fireworks in the first
of twelve opening round contests. A half-brother to the newly crowned ‘Future Star’, Droopys Kathleen, ‘Josepe’ came into the event with a hot reputation and he delivered in style as he reeled in The Other Wild to win in 28.48. There was added spice ahead of this year’s event with the welcome news that there would be UK representation in the shape of Maxine Locke’s Ballymac Lucia and Ballymac Axel. While Bogger Pat was strongly fancied in heat four given some mouth-watering displays prior to the start, ‘Axel’ wasted no time in bridging a four length gap to win comfortably in 28.40. An even spread was to follow in other heats with the likes of Kournikova, Lemon Joey and Adamantconqueror all impressing, however, it was Left Corner Back that set the first round bar for trainer Thomas Leahy. A Kirby trial stake winner in a red-hot 28.25 earlier in the month, the son of Here Comes Syd stopped the clock in 28.31 to take home bragging rights on night one.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing on the opening night, however. Both Ballinabola Joe and Razldazl Edward sat pretty at the head of the outright market prior to kick-off but the duo suffered luckless first round passages and subsequently made earlier than anticipated exits. Other major casualties on the night were the fancied Southwind Wild in heat four and Toolmaker Quick in heat nine.
RINSE & REPEAT IN ROUND TWO
Seven days on from the victories of Faypoint Ranger and Brideside Bill in round one, it was a case of ‘Deja Vu’ for the kennel companions as they stepped up on their efforts to claim a third Kirby in just four years for Graham Holland.
The Patricia Flanagan-owned ‘Ranger’ was the first to justify odds-on favouritism in heat five as he showcased his customary early speed to stop the clock in 28.22. Shortly after, in a different style to his kennel mate, it was the turn of Eugene Buckley’s Brideside Bill to wear down Bubbly Charger and win by the slimmest of margins in 28.35. Indeed, round two saw no fewer than five of the eight opening round heat winners maintain their unbeaten records in the Kirby and once again, Toolmaker Josepe outlined his exceptional engine as he stopped the clock in 28.19. Droopys Deploy was a terrific winner of the UK Northern Puppy Derby prior to his Kirby bid and he was just one and a half lengths adrift in second, while a stacked heat also saw UK interest remain in the shape of the fast-finishing Ballymac Lucia.
Lemon Joey showed another thread to his bow in the concluding heat on night two as he took control around the bottom two bends to win in 28.31, while Fun InThe Run was the beneficiary of a traffic-filled heat four to win in 28.51. The remaining heats were landed in impressive fashion by Jacktavern Boom, who made every inch to match the clock of Lemon Joey, while Liam Dowling’s Ballymac Jester (28.33) also showed his hand with a commanding five length success over local runner Tally Ho Socks. Indeed, it was to prove a fruitful night for the local patrons as Blastoff Ricky, owned by The-High-Handicappers-Syndicate, arrived late to down Bogger Pat at
double figure odds in 28.64.
QUARTERS FOLLOW FAMILIAR PATTERN
In the case of both Faypoint Ranger and Brideside Bill, bragging rights were at stake in the quarter-final heats and on this occasion, it was ‘Bill’ that took the headlines as he stopped the clock in a majestic 28.24.
Installed at odds of 5/4 to maintain his flawless record, the strapping black excelled at traprise to shade Bogger Pat on the run-up, before seeing off the strong challenges of Bubbly Charger and Flight Club, both of which made eye-catching ground up to book their tickets into the semi finals.
At this stage of the competition, Faypoint Ranger was as short as 4/1 to reclaim the title for Graham Holland and he landed an incredibly tough fourth quarter to justify his price tag. Indeed, Toolmaker Josepe was banging on the door of outright favouritism coming into this contest, however, he had no answer to some huge early speedsters, which ultimately proved his undoing in terms of further progression. In contrast, Lemon Joey served it up to Faypoint Ranger for the majority of the contest but a thrilling finish saw ‘Ranger’ prevail by a mere neck in 28.38. Meanwhile, Ballymac Jester was a massive eye-catcher for Liam Dowling as he finished at a rate of knots to cross the line just a short-head further back in third.
Another tracker defending his unbeaten record was Daire and Michael Malone’s Fun InThe Run and although slightly fortunate to land the spoils one-week prior, there was nothing lucky about his effort in the opening quarterfinal. Sole Mio set a blistering gallop in this contest and looked home and hosed as he held a two-lead at the midway point, however, Fun Inthe Run wasn’t to be denied as he swooped late to win in 28.33. Sole Mio had plenty in hand to seal second, while Skywalker Schar stayed on stoutly to sneak through just ahead of Ballymac Lucia, in turn ending any hopes of the Kirby crossing the Irish sea for the very first time.
The remaining quarter final saw a first win in the event for the fancied Silent Kobbie. Trained by Maurice O’Connor for Tom and Timothy Nolan, the Juvenile Classic finalist was forced to play second fiddle in the two rounds prior, however, he defied the odds to cross the line three
lengths clear in 28.27. Once again, Droopys Deploy was strongly fancied at odds of 8/11 and he claimed second, while Pain Barrier, who represents double winning trainer Brendan Matthews, joined his kennel companion Bubbly Charger in the semi finals with a third-place finish.
RANGER BREAKS 28!
Two red-hot semi finals lay in store seven days ago and they didn’t fail to disappoint with Faypoint Ranger, once again, the star of the show as he dipped under the magical 28-second barrier.
Patricia Flanagan’s star was one of two trackers alongside Brideside Bill who was defending an unbeaten record coming into a stacked opening semi, however, he made light work of his rivals to cross the line five lengths clear of Pain Barrier in 27.98. Droopys Deploy would go on to seal an all-important spot in the decider as he powered home to claim third.
Incredibly, Bubbly Charger came into the Kirby unraced and he produced an outstanding performance in the second semi final to ensure that Brendan Matthews will be doubly represented in tonight’s feature. Lemon Joey had gone to traps favourite in what was a wide-open contest, however, ‘Charger’ picked a fine night to produce his best ever break and he made every yard thereafter to put the contest to bed. In doing so, the Northern raider stopped the clock in a career-best 28.19 and he will bid to go one better than Kildare, who also came into the 2022 Kirby unraced, in claiming gold later tonight. Skywalker Schar again defied the odds to finish at speed in second, while the final line-up was completed as Sole Mio claimed third.
HOLLAND and MATTHEWS CHASE HAT-TRICK
Pat Buckley sits alone at the top of the tree with three Kirby triumphs but both Graham Holland (Faypoint Ranger) and Brendan Matthews (Pain Barrier & Bubbly Charger) have the potential to go alongside the Cappawhite handler later tonight in what will no doubt prove a memorable final.
That said, best wishes are extended to connections of all six finalists in their bid to be written into the history books as the Con & Annie Kirby champion for 2025!
The Verdict!
by Peter Farrell
Six of the best that Ireland have to offer will head to traps ahead of an incredible decider tonight but one greyhound jumps off the page in the form of Faypoint Ranger.
At this stage of the competition, every superlative has been thrown at Patricia Flanagan’s flying machine and he is chasing a sixth straight victory, while also aiming to be added to the illustrious list that includes only Bentekes Bocko and Droopys Roddick in going unbeaten through the Classic. One suspects that just one more smart start will be enough for the son of Coolavanny Hoffa to emerge victorious in a race that isn’t stacked in terms of the early pace department. All traps seem to come alike to the Graham Holland-trained heavyweight and while he would have preferred a draw closer to the fence, the black jacket isn’t expected to pose too many issues.
As with greyhound racing, however; things rarely go to script. There are threats aplenty flanking Faypoint Ranger and connections of the book-end runners in particular will be quietly confident of producing a shock. Droopys Deploy comes into the event without a win but that is irrelevant given what we already know about Robert Gleeson’s charge. An incredible winner of the UK Northern Puppy Derby, he has shown courage in abundance to secure qualification and is arguably the best-drawn tracker in the line-up in six. Indeed, given the make-up of the race he has the potential to round the opening corner very close to the pace and that will be of massive concern to the likes of Faypoint Ranger given his strong-running attributes from the halfway mark. The same could be said of Bubbly Charger, who has been rewarded for a terrific semi final victory with a plumb draw in trap one. Having come into the Classic as a novice, he has shown steady improvement in each round to date and his 28.19 last time out warrants big respect given the likelihood that he will shave another couple of lengths off that time with a clear passage. The Brendan
Matthews runner arrives fresh from his best break to date in the semis (1.28) and that could be a sign of things to come in regard to him finding his feet at traprise. Should this be the case, he will be a big player on what will be a crucial run to the opening bend and if he can hold his pitch on the rails, something special could ensue. Sandwiched between both Faypoint Ranger and Droopys Deploy is a greyhound that has gone somewhat under the radar in this event. While Skywalker Schar is likely to go off double-figure odds on the night, he improved immensely in the semi finals as he closed the gap with every stride behind Bubbly Charger, thus outlining the clear ability that was evident from his phenomenal qualifying trials. That said, the draw has not been kind for Michael O’Donovan and Ray Patterson’s star and he will do well to negotiate a favourable pitch in the early exchanges from a tricky trap five berth. Shifting a little closer to the rails and we have Pain Barrier in trap three, which is the second of the Brendan Matthews runners and a litter brother to Bubbly Charger in one. Another that has been a revelation in the Classic, the pacey black has yet to win a round but has captured the eye of many with his power-packed finishes week in, week out. Indeed, while his future may lie over the extended trips going forward, he is not without his chance in the €80,000 to the winner decider should he manage to take ownership of the rails early doors. With Faypoint Ranger on his immediate outer, one suspects that Pain Barrier will need to oust his inside rivals in order to nestle into a favourable pitch at the opening corner and in this eventuality, he will have the leaders looking nervously into the rear-view mirror.
Last but by no means least is Sole Mio, who is representing Aidan Comerford and Peter Cronin. The son of Coolavanny Hoffa arrived at Limerick with a massive reputation having posted 28.28 on debut around Tralee and he has done his credentials absolutely no harm throughout the duration of the Kirby despite failing to raise a flag. He showed excellent battling qualities to recover from a hefty bump in the semis and he has been rewarded for that bravery with a smart draw in trap two. Like Pain Barrier, however; he too will have to be on his toes in the early exchanges and that presents a less appealing betting prospect as a result.
Roll Of Honour
Overall, it would be foolish to oppose Faypoint Ranger, who hasn’t put a paw out of place in this competition. His early speed is unrivaled and even from a level start, he should quickly assert in his bid to complete his unbeaten passage. While the likes of Pain Barrier, Skywalker Schar and Sole Mio are offered much respect in the decider, it is Droopys Deploy that gets the vote to chase home the leader, while the rapidly improving Bubbly Charger is taken to fill the podium in third.
Kindly Sponsored by Noreen & JP McManus
The Six!
BUBBLY CHARGER
OWNER: The Champagne Club
TRAINER: Brendan Matthews
BREEDER: Brendan Matthews
SOLE MIO
OWNER: Aidan Comerford
TRAINER: Peter Cronin
BREEDER: Aidan Comerford
PAIN BARRIER
OWNER: Brendan Matthews
TRAINER: Brendan Matthews
BREEDER: Brendan Matthews
OWNER: Patricia Flanagan
TRAINER: Graham Holland
BREEDER: Bernadette Connolly
OWNER: Raymond Patterson
TRAINER: Michael J. O’Donovan
BREEDER: Shane O’Gorman
OWNER: Paul Allen
TRAINER: Robert G. Gleeson
BREEDER: Sean Dunphy
Awards Winners From February 2025
Hall of Fame Award Honours
J.P. & Noreen McManus
J.P. and Noreen McManus have been inducted into the Limerick/Clare GOBA Hall of Fame in recognition of their unwavering support for Greyhound Racing Ireland. Their contributions include sponsoring the prestigious Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Stake, the richest juvenile puppy race in Ireland, held in memory of Noreen’s parents, Con and Annie Kirby. The Kirby’s had a deep connection to the old Markets Field Greyhound Stadium in Limerick.
Since its inception in 2013, the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Stake has become one of Limerick Greyhound Stadium’s most esteemed events and a key feature in the Greyhound Racing Ireland calendar.
J.P. McManus, started as an on-course bookmaker at the Markets Field in 1982. Noreen McManus is also a dedicated supporter of greyhound racing, regularly attending meetings both on and off the track. A passionate owner, she has co-owned several prize-winning greyhounds, including Christmas Box and Bellwood Pilot.
Their enduring commitment to the sport has left a lasting legacy, making them worthy recipients of this prestigious honour.
Limerick & Clare GOBA Award
Bubbly
Charger
Dromcollogher Broadford LF
Dromcollogher Broadford was established in 1992 with an adult junior team winning the junior final in this year.
In 1999 a juvenile club was set up with players from Dromcollogher and Broadford and surrounding villages. It was decided to change our club colours to Sky blue and navy around this time. Pink was added in more recent years.
We have won many championships and leagues over the years within the county representing Limerick.
Success in the National Feile competition in 2002 and 2003 winning All Ireland Division 2 titles back to back. We hosted in 1999 and 2016, in 2016 reaching the All Ireland Final in Mallow in Division 3. Represented Limerick on 4 other occasions, reaching final in Croke Park in 2000 (Div 2) and semi final 2001 (Div 1). In 2021, we also were very lucky to be picked out in National Draw to represent Limerick in the Feile Day in Croke Park.
Dromcollogher Broadford LGFA Club have also claimed top honours in the ‘Best Overall Programme Engagement’ award. We ran numerous events including building of a fairy village, art competitions, community trail walks, Limerick TLC clean ups and also information evening with Jigsaw and Ciaran Carey and more. Winning this we receive €5,000 as overall programme award winners.
Many of our players represented Limerick in the green and white. Current players Alison Davis (u18), Krissie Sheehan and Grace Burton (u16) Lily Stokes Caoimhe Quaid and Amy O’Kelly (U14).
Today is a proud day for our club, our Gaa club, parish, parents, friends and families to be part of the Con and Annie Kirby Memorial Stake Final. We wish all clubs here tonight every success. We would like thank Noreen and JP McManus for sponsoring this event, and for the continued support to Limerick GAA clubs and county teams.
Sole Mio Bruff GAA
GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE CLUBS
Bruff GAA, established in 1887, is a proud and prominent club in Limerick. The club, adorned in red and white, actively participates in both hurling and Gaelic football competitions.
The club has a rich tradition in hurling, having claimed the Limerick Intermediate Hurling Championship titles in 1989 and 2008, as well as the inaugural Premier Intermediate title in 2014. These victories helped cement their reputation as a strong force within Limerick hurling. In Gaelic football, Bruff also also found success, notably winning the Limerick Junior Football Championship in 1987 and again in 2008. Bruff GAA places a strong emphasis on youth development, and that commitment has paid off with continued success at underage levels. In 2024, the club’s under-15s won both the Feile na nGael (hurling) and Feile Peil (football) county titles—a testament to the club’s dedication to nurturing young talent..The club has also produced players of national recognition. Paul Browne and Seán Finn are two notable figures who came through the Bruff ranks to represent Limerick at senior inter-county level. Finn, in particular, has been an integral part of the Limerick senior hurling team’s recent All-Ireland successes. Beyond its achievements on the pitch, Bruff GAA plays a central role in the local community, promoting sport, fitness, and social connection. The club continues to be a vital part of life in Bruff, with a proud history and a promising future
Pain Barrier
Askeaton Ballysteen Kilcornan GAA
Askeaton-Ballysteen-Kilcornan is a dual club catering for well over 200 playing members.
With over 30 coaches in both codes we are an ever expanding club promoting both hurling and Gaelic football.
Traditionally our adult teams went under the name Ballysteen for football and Askeaton for hurling but in 2025 all our teams now play under the banner of Askeaton-BallysteenKilcornan to acknowledge the addition of Kilcornan who have been an official part of our underage club since 2015.
On the field we are competing at the Intermediate grade in football and Junior Premier in hurling. Our most recent success came when we won the County under 20 B Hurling title in December following a thrilling win versus Croom-GranaghBallingarry.
We are currently enjoying our highest level of representation for a number of years with inter county panels with club players in most age groups aswell as on both senior county panels. With an ever expanding club, costs continue to soar and the prize money from our nominated dog will be put to good use.
We wish Pain Barrier the very best of luck in the Con and Annie Kirby Final and express our gratitude to JP and Noreeen McManus for their continued support to all things sporting in Limerick.
THANK YOU TO LIMERICK GAA & ALL OF THE CLUBS FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Faypoint Ranger
Ballybrown GAA
Ballybrown Gaa club was founded in 1890. It is one of the oldest clubs in Co Limerick. Our colours are White and Green.
Our club is a hive of activities going from under 6 all the way through to senior grade in Hurling. We also have under age football and a junior Men’s and Women’s football team. And lastly a mothers and others football team. We have two fields on which to play on. Recently we improved our facilities by adding an astro turf pitch. This has helped us to train our under age all year round. Over the years we have been very lucky to have members of our club play for the Limerick senior hurling team. We as a club are very proud of the great achievement and to have two members of our club currently on the Limerick senior hurling panel, Aidan O’Conor and Colin Coughlan. We wish them well for the upcoming championship.
This year we have been promoted back to the senior A grade of the hurling championship, where we look forward to playing the best teams in the county and developing our new group of minor hurlers that have made the big step into adult hurling. The club is going from strength to strength in terms of facilities and player development and we can only look forward to the bright future ahead of us in our small parish.
We are delighted to have made the final of the Con and Annie Kirby memorial stake.
Skywalker Schar Templeglantine
GAA
Templeglantine GAA Club was formed in 1898 and currently fields teams from Under 6 to Junior A. The Club colours are green and gold and the dedication of players, coaches, volunteers and supporters is what makes this club truly special.
The club crest features the parish church, from which the village grew, the scenic Tullig Wood in the western end of the parish and the famous Barnagh Tunnel at the eastern side of the parish. Located just outside the village of Templeglantine at Dore’s Cross, the club’s facilities include a playing pitch, a clubhouse, dressing rooms, a viewing stand, a viewing bank, a hurling wall and a team gymnasium.
Templeglantine GAA have won County Limerick Junior Hurling titles in 1937, 1993, 2007 and 2013. The club won the Munster Junior B Hurling Championship Final in February 2014.
A rural GAA Club like ours, in the heart of a small community works best when it works hand in hand with all the other groups in the area, most notably, our sister club, Templeglantine Camogie Club. This was evident recently when both clubs came together for a Strictly Come Dancing Event that connected the entire community once again.
Templeglantine GAA Club is more than a place to play hurling, it is where lifelong friendships are formed and where values are passed from one generation to the next.
Droopys Deploy
Bruree GAA
Fr. Eugene Sheehy, the Land League Priest, who was parish priest in Rockhill-Bruree at the time, founded the South Limerick GAA Club.
Under the charge of Fr. Sheehy, the club, based in Bruree, won the 1893 County Senior Hurling title. After some success in the 1930s, the club disbanded in 1940. The Bruree Hurling Club was revived at a meeting in the L.D.F. Hall in Bruree in November 1944.
Bruree won the South Junior Hurling title in 1948 and went on to repeat the deed in ‘49, ‘50 and ‘51 to make it a record four in a row of South titles.
The winning streak culminated with the annexation of Bruree’s first County title since 1893 when Bruree defeated South Liberties in the County Junior Hurling final of 1951. Bruree went on to win South Junior Hurling titles again in 1957, 1963, 1966 and the Junior B title in 1997. 1966 was another successful year for the club, with Bruree winning its second County Junior Hurling title.
Bruree went Senior the following year and though they came close on a few occasions, it wasn’t until 2006 that the County Senior Hurling title came back.
Bruree has one Munster title to its name, winning the Munster Junior Hurling final back in 2008.
Bruree’s last appearance in a county final in hurling was last year when we lost out to Croagh Kilfinny Intermediate Hurling Final.
Bruree GAA has all the elements which make for a successful club. We have a dedicated group of players both at adult and underage level. We have dedicated people who work with these players to bring out the best in them. Our officers and committee members at adult and underage are hardworking and committed to the future of the club. We are extremely lucky to have a large and loyal band of supporters within and outside the parish who are very generous with the support on the sideline and financially. We thank everyone who has helped in any way to make Bruree GAA the great club that it is.
THE CON & ANNIE KIRBY MEMORIAL - A LASTING LEGACY
The 2025 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial marks the 12th running of the prestigious event and it seems only right to reflect on what swiftly became one of the jewels in the crown of the greyhound racing calendar since it was introduced back in 2013.
Sponsored by J.P. and Noreen McManus in honor of Noreen’s parents, the competition offers a remarkable E80,000 to the winner, making it the richest juvenile race in the northern hemisphere although it is so much more than just a valuable prize.
Despite its relative infancy, the esteemed event has become a launchpad for so many superstars of the sport and has altered the way owners, trainers and breeders operate. Indeed, it has altered the language we use and the profile of greyhound that buyers are searching for.
“FIND ME A KIRBY DOG”
The days of prospective buyers searching for ‘Derby dog’ or a ‘Puppy Derby dog’ aren’t exactly gone but the language and direction has changed to, “find me a ‘Kirby dog’”. Indeed, if a dog is born after January 1st, there is a ‘Kirby’ premium with many willing to pay it with the prospect of having a dog good enough to head to Limerick. By its very nature, if a dog is good enough to be aimed at the Kirby Memorial, it is a Derby class greyhound and a glance through the participants over the past eleven renewals is a veritable who’s who of stellar canine talent.
BULLY A BRILLIANT FIRST WINNER
It seems a lifetime ago since Roxholme Bully won the inaugural Con & Annie Kirby Memorial at a packed Limerick stadium but it was only 2013. The winner, who was trained by Owen McKenna, would ultimately have his career curtailed through injury but he was both a brilliant and memorable first winner of the event that would change shape the Irish greyhound racing calendar.
Other hugely talented trackers that contested that inaugural renewal included Leamaneigh Turbo, Kisses For Cloda, Royal Diva, Melodys Gamble, Jacksallstar and Oran Maestro. But looking back, Slippery Robert would be the first great superstar to emerge from the newest competition on the calendar.
Less than six months after crashing out at the semi-final stages in the Kirby Memorial, Slippery Robert would go on to claim his place in history as the 2013 Derby champion.
A LEGACY IN THE BREEDING PADDOCKS
And he wouldn’t be the only greyhound to contest that first Kirby Memorial to earn a place in Derby history. Talented ladies, Pippy and Melodys Diamond, may have gone out in the early rounds but both would go on to become top class brood bitches. Pippy would go on to throw the 2017 Derby champion Good News, while Melodys Diamond was the dam of 2019 Derby champion Lenson Bocko.
And they weren’t the only classic winning broods to emerge over the years. Jetstream Lynx contested the 2017 Kirby and would go down in history as the dam of one of the greatest of all time, the Derby, Oaks and Easter Cup Champion Susie Sapphire.
DERBY DESTINY BEGAN AT LIMERICK
In fact, from the very outset the Kirby Memorial saw so many of its graduating class go on to make a splash in the Derby. After Slippery Robert in 2013, the next three Derby winners all competed in the Kirby Memorial before going on to Derby glory.
Laughil Blake made an early exit in the 2014 Kirby but would emerge as one
the aforementioned Ballymac Matt and Sidarian Pearl, all of which were Kirby Memorial graduates.
MATTHEWS WITH A BRILLIANT BRACE
But what of the early winners at Limerick. Boylesports Hero was a sensational winner for the recently announced Hall of Fame inductee, Brendan Matthews, in 2014. He would go on to a wonderful victory at Clonmel in the National Produce Stakes and finish a close second in the Dundalk International before a suffering a career ending injury in the opening round of the Derby.
Cable Bay completed a famous double for the Matthews family twelve months later, capturing the 2015 Kirby Memorial. He would have a wonderful career after his heroics, reaching the final of the Derby later that year.
A BUCKLEY HAT TRICK
After the Brendan Matthews double in 2014 and 2015, it was the turn of Pat Buckley to put a sequence together. In fact, he captured the 2016, 2017 and 2018 renewals. The remarkable treble started with Droopys Roddick in 2016.
A brilliant son of Droopys Jet, he would go on to finish a desperately close second in the English Derby at Plough Lane, Wimbledon. It was the turn of Bentekes Bocko in 2017, while the Buckley hat trick came in 2018 with Droopy Davy.
While Pat Buckley was earning almost a quarter a million in win prizemoney over the three years, countless stars emerged from the stake including future classic winners Clares Rocket, who would become one of the best ever, Laurels winner Skywalker Manner, Oaks winners Witches Belle and Ballydoyle Honey, dual Corn Cuchulainn winner Airmount Tess, Cesarewitch winner Droopys Acrobat, Laurels, Leger and Produce Stakes champion Clonbrien Hero, Easter Cup champion Clona Blaze, Produce Stakes winner Cash Is King and Shelbourne 600
winner Clonbrien Prince.
ANOTHER STELLAR YEAR
Going into 2019, the seventh renewal of the Kirby, the sense of newness was gone. It was now firmly established as one of great competitions. And again, it saw the emergence of a number of future superstars.
The Robert Gleeson trained Toolmaker Josie won the competition but others to emerge included subsequent staying sensation and the first Irish trained greyhound to land the UK St Leger, Redzer Ardfert, English Derby runner-up Ballymac Tas and Produce Stakes winner Grangeview Ten.
COVID FAILED TO HALT ENTHUSIASM
Covid 19 hit a year later meaning plans to run the Kirby Memorial in 2020 were shelved. Many asked, would it return and, if doing so, would it have the same support as in previous years? These questions were answered in no uncertain terms in 2021. It came back bigger than ever.
While there may have been crowd restrictions in place, thanks to Talking Dogs TV, the 2021 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial was perhaps the best yet, reaching its largest audience.
A SPECIAL RENEWAL
Every second of the classic was streamed live along with presentation and interviews and the dogs played their part in making it one of the most memorable classics of modern times. Stonepark Leo emerged a superb winner for legendary handler Michael O’Donovan but it remains the strongest renewal of the competition with so many superstars emerging from the competition.
Explosive Boy, who was a short priced favourite in the final, would go on to win the Produce Stakes, reach the final of the Derby, win the Select Stakes, the Dundalk International, the Race of Champions and would also be named Greyhound of the Year.
Ballymac Merlin would win the Leger, Good Cody the Irish Laurels, Billy Diva the English Oaks, De Machine the Champion Stakes, while Singalong Sally would run-up the Derby, just ahead of Jacks Little Thing who would finish third. On top of them, Romeo Magico would famously going on to win a first English Derby for Ireland’s top trainer Graham Holland. His litter sister Fabulous Azurra would establish herself as a star in the Uk, while others to come out of the 2021 Kirby included subsequent top sire Ballymac Cashout, Derby finalist All About Ted and Ballymac Ariel.
MORE OF THE SAME IN 2022
Was 2021 a standout year or would this become the norm? Incredibly, 2022 was almost, if not, as strong. Swords Rex would run out a brilliant winner and go on to establish himself as one of the finest trackers of the twenty first century.
He win an Easter Cup, start favourite for an English Derby final, finish second in a Leger, third in a Laurels and also reach a Produce Stakes decider. He was a canine superstar but so too were many of those that failed to win the 2022 Kirby Memorial.
The Other Kobe would go on to Derby success in 2023, Bobsleigh Dream would land a Leger, Cesarewitch and Tipperary Cup, Ballinabola Ed would become one of the very fastest in training, winning a Shelbourne Open 600 and Race of Champions, Crafty Kokoro would race to Corn Cuchulainn glory before finishing in third in the Derby, while others like Coolavanny Hoffa, Ballymac Whispa, Magical Kuba, Mr Chelm and Droopys Nice One would also go on to establish themselves as exceptional talents.
TREATY AN APT WINNER IN ‘23
The class of 2023 had plenty to live up to but Clonbrien Treaty took the baton and led from the front. He would run out a brilliant winner of the classic before going on to claim three more before his career ended.
Fittingly, for a son of Limerick named after the county, Treaty would famously
go on become the first greyhound in over fifty years to win the Irish St Leger in successive years. His first came in November 2023 before returning the following year to defend his crown. He would also win an Easter Cup, meaning he retired with four classic titles.
Others to make a splash from the 2023 graduation class included the brilliant Clona Duke, who would become the first greyhound to win the Select Stakes on both sides of the Irish Sea as well as reaching an English Derby decider, Irish Derby third Bens Teddy, top sprinter and Kingdom Derby winner Road Exile as well as Derby finalist Music Glideaway, Shelbourne 600 winner Ryhope Beach and English Derby finalist Whyaye Man.
WHAT A STORY AS DANIEL AND DAZZLER TRIUMPH
And that brings us to the most recent renewal of the famous competition. What storylines would 2024 throw up? In many ways, it threw up one of the best imaginable with Knockeen Dazzler landing the €80,000 prize for 17-yearold Daniel O’Rahilly.
The fifth-year student from the greyhound racing heartland of Ballymacelligott steered his charge expertly through the early rounds before watching him emerge a memorable winner of the decider last April.
It was a victory that earned him national headlines, while their story was also relayed to homes across the country via RTE’s Nationwide Programme.
Aside from Knockeen Dazzler, many more big names emerged from the competition with greyhounds like Da Bold Falcon, March On Freddie, Carmac King, Ballymac Danica, Coolavanny Otto and Unanimous Panther going on to become stars.
MORE SIGNIFCANT THAN EVER BEFORE
Year after year, it seems the importance and significance of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial becomes greater. Countless classic winners have graduated from the classic, while many more superstars have used the competition as the perfect stage to announce their arrival.
But the ‘Kirby’ is also far more than just a competition; it is a unique event that strengthens the bond between sport and community in Limerick. It not only showcases the finest young greyhounds in Ireland but also fosters a deep connection with local GAA clubs.
Each competing dog is paired with a Limerick GAA club, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation that extends beyond the track. This innovative partnership brings together two of Ireland’s most cherished sporting traditions, uniting greyhound racing enthusiasts and GAA supporters in a shared celebration of competition and community spirit.
The incredible fundraising opportunity it provides for Limerick’s GAA clubs sets it apart. With significant prizes allocated to the clubs based on the performance of their nominated greyhound, the competition serves as a vital financial boost for grassroots Gaelic games.
SYNONYMOUS WITH EXCELLENCE
As we look forward to the twelfth final of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial, it’s fitting to reflect on what an incredible competition it has become. It is now one of the most eagerly anticipated competitions on the greyhound racing calendar and continues to attract only the very best young greyhounds around.
Many of them will go on to achieve greatness in the sport, leaving a lasting legacy that extends well beyond the competition itself. The event has become synonymous with excellence, not only in terms of the high-caliber racing it delivers but also in its role as a vital stepping stone for future champions.
That seems set to continue long into the future.
By Ian Fortune
NOTICE BOARD
The Limerick & Clare GOBA welcome all race goers, trainers, owners and clubs to the final of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Stake. We wish all dogs, trainers and clubs involved the very best of luck. We wish all connections and dogs the very best of luck in the Sean O’Connor Final the best of luck.
UPCOMING SWEEPSTAKES:
The Irene Wall Memorial 525 for 12 NON WINNER A4 grade dogs which have had 2 runs in Limerick and max 1 backgrade. Next novice stakes here on Friday 25th & Saturday 26th April
TRIAL TIMES
Wednesday
09:30 – 11:00 Official 12:00 – 13:15 Unofficial 14:45 – 18:00 Unofficial
Friday 10:00 – 12:00 Unofficial 13:00 – 17:00 Unofficial Friday Raceday 15:00 – 17:00 Unofficial ALL TRIALS MUST BE BOOKED ON-LINE ALL ENTRIES MUST BE TEXT TO 085-8797575 EMAIL jody.thompson@grireland.ie
MEMBERSHIP FOR LIMERICK & CLARE GOBA FOR 2025 NOW DUE
As decided at the recent AGM, membership fees and racing requirements for Limerick & Clare GOBA sweepstakes for the following year are as follows:
Adult / Trainer - €20.00
Syndicate - € 50.00
Juvenile - €10.00
Family - € 50.00
Please also note that while membership will remain open all year ONLY FULLY PAID members before June 30th 2025 will be allowed to enter Limerick & Clare GOBA arranged sweepstakes. The following criteria will also be required for entries for Limerick & Clare GOBA sweep stakes.
■ Owners of entry must be fully paid members for 2025. IE – If a dog is owned by a syndicate, then that syndicate must be fully paid up as per fees above.
■ Entries must have had 2 runs in Limerick.
■ There will be a MAXIMUM of 2 back grades allowed except in the case of a sweepstake being a NO BACKGRADER sweepstake.
As agreed also at the recent AGM added prize money will be added to 2 races this month and going forward it will be ongoing on a monthly basis that a minimum of 2 races on a selected date will have added prize money allocated by GOBA. Prize money will be only paid to winners who are fully paid up members of Limerick -Clare GOBA.
Colouring Competition Winners
Quarter Finals Saturday 5th April
Congratulations to our Colouring Competition winners (top left) Anna O’Neill , (top right) Georgia O’Sullivan, (bottom left) Harry Conway and (bottom right) Tom Boland. Well done to all!
A night of Celebration for Limerick’s Cumann na mBunscol players
Quarter Finals Saturday 5th April
A wonderful evening celebrating the achievement of our young Limerick GAA players who were part of the Cumann na mBunscol teams this year.
Players from the Limerick City Hurling team celebrate their win in the Mackey Cup Final that week
from
Recognising Limerick’s Cumann na mBunscol players with a parade
Girls from Limerick’s Cumann na mBunscol teams
Boys
Limerick’s Cumann na mBunscol teams
Players and Families enjoying the Cumann na mBunscol night of celebration
Semi-Finals
CIC & POC FADA Competition Winners
TOP LEFT: WINNER OF THE POC FADA
Cathal O’Rourke
Bruff GAA
TOP RIGHT: WINNER OF THE POC FADA
Amy Ryan
Galbally GAA
Camogie
BOTTOM LEFT: WINNER OF THE CIC FADA
Séimí Fox
Ballylanders GAA
BOTTOM RIGHT: WINNER OF CIC FADA
Holly O’Dwyer
Ballinacurra
Gaels
PICTURE GALLERY
TOP RIGHT:
CIC FADA FINALISTS (GIRLS)
- Saoirse O’Shaughnessy
Ballinacurra Gaels
- Holly O’Dwyer
Ballinacurra Gaels
- Emma Guerin
Mungret St. Pauls
LEFT:
POC FADA FINALISTS (BOYS)
- Francie Moran
St. Patricks GAA
- Cathal O’Rourke
Bruff GAA
- Keelan Foley
South Liberties GAA
- Danny Hedderman
Killmallock GAA
Well
done to everyone who took part!
UPCOMING STAKES
“GETTING
OUT” RACES @ LIMERICK
Sat 26th April A0 600 yds Winner €500 Sat 3rd May Novice 750 yds Winner €500
LIMERICK STADIUM A3/A4 600YDS STAKE
For 24 Greyhounds @ €30 each Backgraders allowed Winner €1200 First round heats on Sat 26th April
IRENE WALL MEMORIAL A4 525YDS STAKE
Non winners 2 races at Limerick Backgraders from A3 only
For 12 Greyhounds @ €30 each Semi finals on Sat 3rd May Next novice stakes here on Friday/Saturday 25th 26th April
Prizemoney for sweepstakes subject to entries*
6 IN A ROW
Supporting the Future Success of our clubs and County Teams 1 2 3 4 6 5
The 2025CLUB Limerick Draw will support our clubs PLUS the training fund of Limerick Hurlers & Footballers from Minor to Senior Grades.
FIRST PRIZE Each Month €10,000 28 Other CASH PRIZES Each Month 50% Goes to Chosen Club
A STAR PRIZE Each Month
DISCOUNT to ALL CLUB Limerick Draw members from the below businesses. #CLUBLKDRAW
First of all decide on the type of bet you want to make (see below options) and then pick the dog number(s) that you are going to bet on.
Pick one dog to win. If your greyhound wins, you win! Ask for Stake –WIN –TRAP NUMBER, e.g €1.00 – WIN – TRAP 3
MINIMUM BET - €1
Pick one dog to finish in either first or second place. You collect on the bet if the dog finishes in either first or second place.
Ask for Stake – PLACE – TRAP NUMBER, e.g €1.00 – PLACE – TRAP 6
MINIMUM BET - €1
This is a win bet plus a place bet on one greyhound. Your selected dog must come either first or second to claim any winnings on this bet. If your dog wins you will collect on the win bet plus the place bet. If the dog comes second you will receive the place dividend only.
Ask for Stake – EACH WAY – TRAP NUMBER, e.g €1.00 – EACH WAY – TRAP 2
MINIMUM BET - €2
Pick two dogs to finish first and second and the dogs must finish in the correct order that you choose.
Ask for Stake – STRAIGHT FORECAST – TRAP NUMBERS, e.g €1.00 – STRAIGHT FORECAST –TRAP 2 & TRAP 1
MINIMUM BET - €1
Pick two dogs to finish in either first or second place. Your two dogs must finish in first and second place in any order.
Ask for Stake – REVERSE FORECAST – TRAP NUMBERS, e.g €1.00 – STRAIGHT FORECAST –TRAP 5 & TRAP 6
MINIMUM BET - €2
Pick three dogs and two out of the three dogs must finish in either first or second place in any order to collect on this bet.
Ask for Stake – FORECAST ALL WAYS – TRAP NUMBERS, e.g €1.00 – FORECAST ALL WAYS –TRAPS 1, 2 & 3
MINIMUM BET - €6
Pick three dogs to finish first, second and third and the dogs must finish in the correct order that you choose.
Ask for Stake – STRAIGHT TRIO – TRAP NUMBERS, e.g €1.00 – STRAIGHT TRIO –TRAPS 2, 4 & 5
MINIMUM BET - €1
Pick three dogs and the three must finish in first, second and third place in any order.
Ask for Stake – TRIO ALL WAYS – TRAP NUMBERS, e.g €1.00 – TRIO ALL WAYS –TRAPS 3, 5 & 6
MINIMUM BET - €6
We at Tote always encourage a socially responsible attitude within the betting industry. Our goal is to help customers gain maximum enjoyment from their betting.
Whilst for the majority of our customers gambling is an enjoyable leisure activity, we realise that some people’s gambling can get out of control, cease to become enjoyable and lead to financial difficulties. If any of our customers feel like they are losing control, we’ll help them get the support they need.
If you believe you may have a problem with gambling, or know someone who does, please seek help with the below confidential organisations. They will offer you the right support and help you combat this problem.
Tools are available to help you gamble more safely
GAMBLING CARE
If you live in Ireland there are several support organisations who can offer help online, by phone or face-to-face. You can access this information by visiting Gamblingcare.ie
THE HUNDREDS OF YEARS OF TRADITION THAT FORMS OUR SPORT. THE GENERATIONS OF FAMILIES BROUGHT TOGETHER BY THEIR LOVE OF THE DOGS. WE STAND FOR ALL THAT IS GOOD ABOUT OUR SPORT AND WE ARE ITS FUTURE.
BECAUSE
Learn more about the generations involved in our sport on grireland.ie/ourpeoplethegenerations
10 KEY POINTS FROM THE CODE OF
The welfare and care of a greyhound is the number 1 priority
Housing must be safe and comfortable
Each kennel must have a designated Veterinary Practitioner
Covers everyone (those who keep, breed, rear, train, race, trade or transport greyhounds)
Keepers/Owners must be competent and knowledgeable in the care of greyhounds
A health programme agreed with a Vet must be in place including how to deal with all parasites
The whole of a greyhound’s life must be planned for, including retirement
An exercise programme based on the age, anatomy & behaviour must be in place including exercise in fresh air at least once per day
Socialisation must be provided at all stages of life
View the full Code of Practice on grireland.ie/codeofpractice
Correct procedures to be followed on the notification of transfer, sale or death
MEETING DATE : 19th April 2025
MEETING NO : 34
Greenpark, Dock Road, Limerick
Phone 1 : 061 - 448038 Fax : 061 - 448041 or 061 - 303788
Racing Office Opening Hrs Tuesday to Saturday 9 am to 5 pm.
Racing Manager: Jody Thompson
Racing Support Officer: Noreen Cremin
Control Steward: Peter Quinn
Hare Driver: Andrew Barrett
Groundstaff: Andrew Barrett / Declan Tierney / Jack McNamara / Brendan Hanley
Judge: Chris Ryan / Noreen Cremin
Time Keeper: J.Thompson Vet Surgeon : Adrian Hanley MVB MRCVS
Steward: Peter Quinn /John Waters / Jody Thompson / Andrew Barrett / Noreen Cremin
OWNERS & TRAINERS ARE REMINDED TO CHECK PAPERS & GRI WEBSITE TO SEE IF THEIR GREYHOUNDS ARE RUNNING.
RACING CANNOT BE GUARANTEED FOR ANY DOG ENTERED AT THIS TRACK.
NOTICE
Declaration of a ‘NO RACE’
The stewards may declare a ‘No Race’ only in the following circumstances:
(1) Where there is mechanical or other defect of the hare equipment or starting box or any outside interference with the race, or
(2) If any of the dogs fight, and as a consequence, all fail to pursue the hare, or (3) If for any other reason all dogs fail to pursue the hare.
Note: A greyhound turning back in a race does not constitute outside interference. Unauthorised photography in this stadium is strictly prohibited.
If through any cause the meeting has to be abandoned before the start of the Fourth Race, pass out tickets will be issued, but, under no circumstances, will admission money be refunded.
Greyhounds Turning in Traps:
(a) If a greyhound turns before the hare is put in motion that greyhound will be taken out and and righted. If, however, he turns again no further attention will be given to him.
(b) If a greyhound turns while the hare is in motion the hare should not be stopped and the traps should be released.
(c) If the hare passes the traps and for any reason the traps do not operate then all the dogs should be taken out and be re-examined before they are put into traps again.
Computerised Trap Draw made at Greyhound Racing Ireland. Kennel area strictly out of bounds to all except owners, trainers, and officials.
IF GREYHOUNDS HAVE TO BE WITHDRAWN, OWNERS ARE REQUESTED TO DO SO BEFORE THEY APPEAR ON THE RACE CARD.
