Talking Dogs on Thursday is the weekly Greyhound Racing podcast from Talking Dogs, the number one spot for all your Irish Greyhound Racing news. Presented by Barry Drake, each episode brings a new story from all things dogs!
Andrew Yates is living the Derby dream right now, as he prepares to cheer on Roarin Ogara, his first greyhound, in the opening round of the 2026 BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby at Shelbourne Park.Andrew chats to Barry about his journey into greyhound ownership, the passion he has developed for the sport, and how he came to own such a promising greyhound. Have a listen now!
Barry Drake chats to Mikey Cronin following Im Here success in the €25,000 to the winner 2026 TIME Greyhound Nutrition Puppy Derby Final at Shelbourne Park.Mikey discusses the rise of the exciting young greyhound, the impact owner Aidan Comerford has had on the kennel, and why Im Here could develop into a leading contender for the upcoming BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.Barry also catches up with Eddie Keating ahead of a special night at Kilcohan Park on Saturday 1st August. Eddie outlines the plans for the Waterford Gala Memorial Night, which will honour past owners and supporters of the sport.Have a listen now!
Barry chats to Dean Harpur following Ballycowen Frank's sensational success in the 2026 TIME Dundalk International Open 550 at Dundalk Stadium.He discusses Ballycowen Frank's journey from promising youngster to elite performer, the role trainer Michael O'Donovan has played in his development, and looks ahead to the upcoming BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.Have a listen now!
Barry Drake chats to Donogh McLean following Kerryroad Al's brilliant success in the 2026 TIME Club Derby Final at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.Donogh reflects on the family's connection to greyhound racing, the journey through the competition, and what it meant to land the €20,000 first prize with the talented son of Head Bound.He also discusses some of the standout performers associated with the McLean kennel over the years and looks ahead to what the future may hold for Kerryroad Al.Have a listen now!
Barry chats to young Clare trainer Colm Fitzgerald following a memorable night in Limerick as Tiermana Dream landed the West Limerick Treaty Cup.Colm reflects on recent success, the family effort in the kennels, and looks ahead to Dundalk's Irish Sprint Cup.Barry also catches up with William Rigney of Time Greyhound Nutrition to preview Saturday night’s Time Club Derby Final in Limerick, boasting an impressive €20,000 winner’s prize.Have a listen now!
Barry Drake chats to William Rigney of Time Greyhound Nutrition ahead of Saturday night’s Semi-Finals of the 2026 Time Club Derby at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.William reflects on another successful renewal of the innovative competition, which gives graded greyhounds and their connections the opportunity to compete for a €20,000 winner’s prize. He discusses the concept behind the event, the strong level of competition throughout the stake, and looks ahead to two highly competitive Semi-Finals.Barry and William also discuss the upcoming Time Greyhound Nutrition Juvenile Derby at Shelbourne Park and look ahead to the prestigious Time Greyhound Nutrition International at Dundalk Stadium later this year.Have a listen now!
English Greyhound Derby winning trainer Paul Hennessy joins Barry to chat about his big win with Lennies Eddie at Towcester on Saturday night.Paul reflects on another memorable Derby triumph, discussing the performances of both Lennies Eddie and Lennies Tank throughout the competition, and the key moments that shaped the Final. He also looks ahead to upcoming plans for his Derby winner, including potential targets back in Ireland.Barry and Paul also preview Saturday night’s Sporting Press Online Edition Irish Oaks Final at Shelbourne Park, where Lennies Ash will represent the kennel.Have a listen now!
Barry Drake chats to Denis Murphy ahead of Friday night’s Callaway Pro Am At Stud Race of Champions Semi-Finals at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.Denis discusses sponsoring the feature event and the incredible line-up assembled for the competition. Barry and Denis also look ahead to Saturday night’s Denis Linehan Solicitors Open Unraced 525 Semi-Finals at Curraheen Park, where Callaway Ryder will again be in action.Have a listen now!
Barry talks to Tom Kinane, racing manager at Kilkenny Greyhound Stadium. Tom discusses the official opening of the new stand as well as a cafe area for this Friday night along with the racing action. It is sure to be a busy affair with a fundraiser scheduled for the night as well as some special visitors including minister for agriculture, Martin Heydon.Barry also speaks to Pat Morrissey of Clonmel Greyhound Stadium ahead of Sunday nights, €20,000 to the winner National Produce Stakes Final and the continuous improvements made to Clonmel's stadium over the last few months
Barry Drake looks ahead to the Sporting Press Online Edition Irish Oaks this week with trainer Patrick Guilfoyle.Patrick discusses the chances of Magical On Fire, Magical Mag and Magical Hope ahead of the opening round at Shelbourne Park.Barry also chats to Mark Fanning ahead of Tuesday night’s final of the €3,000 to the winner Thurles Track Champion Bitch Stake, as well as looking ahead to the upcoming Centenary Agri Tipperary Cup.Have a listen now!
Fresh from Bogger Bob’s brilliant victory in the €10,000 Droopys Stud Select Stakes Final at Kilcohan Park, Owner / Trainer Liam Peacock joins Barry Drake this week. Liam reflects on the success, Bogger Bob’s career so far and what could be next for the talented performer.Barry also chats to Olivia Murphy ahead of this Friday’s Fundraising Information Evening at Curraheen Park with special guest Davy Russell.Have a listen now!
Bouncing Monarch is the type of greyhound that most people can only dream of owning in their lifetime. When 15 year old David Fradgley got involved in greyhound racing back in the 1960s in Yorkshire, he would scarcely have dared to dream it. Fast-forward 60 years and the dream came through.Barry chats to the proudest man in West Yorkshire this week, as they reflect on a memorable Con and Annie Kirby Memorial win in Limerick on Saturday night, and the news that everyone wants to hear... where to next?Find out now!
Fresh from Classic success with Lemon Orla in the Shelbourne Park Bookmakers Easter Cup, trainer Tom O’Neill joins Barry Drake on this week’s Talking Dogs on Thursday episode.Tom reflects on a lifetime in greyhound racing, from growing up around dogs to training top-class performers, and shares the story behind Lemon Orla’s rise from a sales purchase to one of the sport’s standout stars.He also discusses her careful campaign, the setbacks she overcame and what could lie ahead.Have a listen now!
From the family connections in the GAA to a love of greyhound racing, there's a lot of sporting chat to delve into with this week's guest, David O'Connor.While his family are famously known for their hurling achievements, David has been quietly making his mark in greyhound racing, a sport he has been passionate about from a young age. He chats to Barry about what first sparked his love of the sport and his current involvements, particularly in breeding. David has a keen eye on the Con and Annie Kirby action in Limerick having bred both Bouncing Monarch and Beanos Yank, who both got their campaign off to a fantastic and promising start. Have a listen now!
Annie Kirby Memorial at Limerick Greyhound Stadium, following Ballymac Deniro’s impressive success in the T. Nolan CVRT Centre Juvenile Classic at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.Barry also catches up with David Flanagan after Blackstone Cola’s victory in the Deise Plastering Novice 730 Stake at Kilcohan Park, while also looking ahead to the exciting prospects in his kennel.Have a listen now!
Legendary trainer Paul Hennessy joins Barry after Coloursaregreen’s victory in the 2026 Tote Gold Cup Final at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium.Barry also catches up with Morgan Crowley ahead of the TIME Irish Cesarewitch Final in Mullingar Greyhound Stadium on Sunday, before speaking with Shane Rigney from TIME Greyhound Nutrition about the big race and their continued support of the sport.Have a listen now!
Barry chats to Hughie Keleghan, Chairman of the WGOBA in Galway, as excitement builds ahead of the Kilcolgan Castle Connacht Derby and a packed few weeks of top-class racing at Galway Greyhound Stadium.Hughie discusses the strong sponsorship and the €9,000 winner’s prize, standout runners across the heats, and the welcome influx of leading trainers targeting the competition. He also looks ahead to growing membership numbers and the continued importance of local support in Galway.Have a listen now.
Caroline Collins joins Barry Drake on this week’s episode of Talking Dogs on Thursday to shine a light on Curraheen Park and the growing impact of the Curraheen Park Supporters Club. Caroline speaks passionately about the vision behind the supporters' club and their sponsorship of racing locally in Curraheen Park to support their local greyhound community. The pair also briefly reflect on the Cork Cup from last week, touching on the quality of competition and the significance of the event on the local racing calendar.Have a listen now.
Barry chats to two great guests this week. First up, he's joined by Tom Mullan following a brilliant run of form for the Mullan family kennels.Tom chats about growing up in the greyhound racing and his life in the sport and recent success at Lifford, including Trainer of the Year honours.Barry then chats to Pat Morrissey to preview a huge weekend of racing at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium.A packed episode full of insight and top-class racing chat. Have a listen now.
Aaron reflects on his journey into greyhound racing, the importance of routine in his day-to-day operation, and the satisfaction gained from rearing, schooling and training his own dogs. The pair also discuss a remarkable year that saw Aaron record 53 winners from just 211 runners, earning him leading trainer honours at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium.A really engaging and insightful chat. Have a listen now.
Denis McGrath joins Barry Drake on this week’s episode of the podcast after a big Christmas success at Limerick Greyhound Stadium with Foxwood McGowan.Denis chats about how he got involved in greyhounds, setting up near Nenagh, and the satisfaction of breeding and rearing his own dogs. The pair reflect on Foxwood McGowan’s run through the competition and a superb final performance to land the Con Murphy Bookmakers A1 525 Final.A really enjoyable chat. Have a listen now!
Trainer Patrick Guilfoyle joins Barry Drake on this New Year’s Day episode of the podcast, following an exciting 2025 for the kennel.Patrick takes us back to the start, getting the greyhound bug at a young age growing up around them and learning a strong work ethic from his parents. These days they are keen to pass on their experience and the Guilfoyle’s regularly welcome young greyhound enthusiasts into their kennels during their holidays to help them learn and hone their skills. The duo chat through a magical 2025 which saw them achieve racing success up and down the country, topped off with Magical On Fire, the fastest Laurels champion, and most recently a Christmas Oaks winner.A thoroughly enjoyable and insightful chat. Happy New Year!
This week, Barry Drake is joined by Berkie Browne to talk all things the Eric Browne Memorial Kingdom Derby, ahead of Friday night’s feature final at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.Berkie reflects on the opening rounds of the competition, standout performances from the semi-finals, and the quality of the six finalists chasing the €35,000 prize.A passionate discussion on top-class racing, family involvement in the sport, and a big night ahead in Tralee.Have a listen now!
This week, Barry Drake chats with Tipperary trainer Vincent McKenna, fresh from a fantastic Fair Warrior victory at Mullingar Greyhound Stadium.Vincent talks about Gem Friendly’s brilliant unbeaten run through the competition, her progression this year, and future plans as she steps up in trip.He also reflects on a lifetime in greyhounds, the influence of the McKenna family, standout memories, and the exciting youngsters coming through his kennel.A passionate greyhound man with a deep love for the sport, and plenty to look forward to in 2026.Have a listen now!
This week, Barry Drake chats with young handler and trainer Tim Cliffe, fresh from a brilliant success at the Winter Racing Festival in Shelbourne Park. Tim reflects on a great weekend for rising stars in the sport, including his big 850-yard victory on Saturday night. He shares insights into handling, breeding, and producing staying greyhounds, the influence of his grandfather Andrew Lynch. He also discusses future plans, their promising young greyhounds, and ambitions for the year ahead. A great conversation with a dedicated young dog man making his mark in Irish racing. Have a listen now!
Susan Hennessy, and memorable wins.He also chats about future plans, his growing involvement in Irish racing, and the importance of greyhound aftercare and rehoming.A brilliant insight into a passionate owner with an exciting team of runners.Have a listen now!
This week, Barry Drake speaks with one of the sport’s rising young trainers, 22-year-old Colm Fitzgerald from West Clare.Fresh from a big win on Laurels Final night and strong runs across Cork, Galway and Tralee, Colm reflects on a remarkable year.A great insight into a talented young trainer quickly making a name for himself.Have a listen now!
Barry Drake looks ahead to Saturday’s Bar One Racing Irish Greyhound Laurels Final at Curraheen Park, chatting with Kieran Burke from the sponsors, along with the finalists Liam Dowling, Patrick Guilfoyle, Michael Wren and Eve Leahy. A brilliant line-up, a packed card and all eyes on one of the biggest nights of the year!Have a listen now!
Barry looks ahead to the Bar One Racing Irish Laurels Semi-Finals with Kieran Burke. They chat through the big storylines: Droopys Patriot’s unbeaten run, Ballymac Setanta’s track-record-equalling fireworks, the Solo And Go buzz and the strong late gains of Magical On Fire.They also reflect on the huge local support in Cork and the excitement building towards the Final night, which will be on Virgin Media TV.Have a listen to their chat now!
Barry looks ahead to the Bar One Racing Irish Laurels Semi-Finals with Kieran Burke. They chat through the big storylines: Droopys Patriot’s unbeaten run, Ballymac Setanta’s track-record-equalling fireworks, the Solo And Go buzz and the strong late gains of Magical On Fire.They also reflect on the huge local support in Cork and the excitement building towards the Final night, which will be on Virgin Media TV.Have a listen to their chat now!
This week, Barry catches up with Cork trainer Dean Harpur, fresh from his brilliant success in Limerick's Gammell Car Sales Kennedy Cup with Ballycowen Frank.Dean reflects on the win and the exciting times for his small but talented kennel, which also includes promising youngsters such as Ballycowen Archie and Get Up The Boy. He also chats about breeding and shares what’s next for his runners heading to Shelbourne Park.Have a listen to their chat now!
This week on Talking Dogs on Thursday, Barry chats with trainer Shaun Conway, following his recent success with Badly Behaving at On Faya Galway Oaks. He takes us through the journey Badly Behaving has had over the past few months. Shaun also reflects on the young dogs in his kennel and the great year they have had. Barry also got the opportunity to talk to commentator and writer, Mark Fanning. A passionate advocator of Thurles Greyhound Stadium, Mark shares his thoughts on the Kasko Dog Foods Unraced 525 Final and more. Mark and Barry talk Derby, and the rise in the great sport of Greyhound Racing.Have a listen to their chat now!
Two very happy and proud men join Barry this week, our 2025 BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby winning trainer Graham Holland and Dan Brassil, part of the winning owners the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate. Humble as always, Graham reflects on his record-breaking 5th Derby win with Cheap Sandwiches, praising his champion and all of the family and team supporting him. Graham also gives us an update on some of his other greyhounds, Bockos Diamond, Silverhill Freya after her win in the UK last week and his team for the Laurels. Dan Brassil has a lifetime involvement with greyhounds and enjoyed one of the best nights of his life on Saturday as Cheap Sandwiches achieved the Derby dream for him, his family and the rest of the syndicate. Dan shares some of his history and memories in the sport, how the Bark Wahlberg Syndicate came to be and the thrill of owning greyhounds, including their Derby champion Cheap Sandwiches.Have a listen to their chat now!
This week, Barry chats with Tadhg O’Connor of the Random Bag Syndicate in Kerry, proud owners of Derby Semi-Finalist Oreo Ollie. Tadhg shares the story of how the syndicate was formed, the excitement of racing with their star greyhound Oreo Ollie, and the role of young trainer Jack Kennelly in guiding the dog’s journey so far. From early successes in the Lee Strand at Tralee to lining out in this year’s BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby Semi-Finals, Tadhg talks about the thrill of being involved, the bond among syndicate members, and the dream of reaching a Derby Final night at Shelbourne Park.Have a listen to their chat now!
This week, Barry Drake is joined by two guests, Mark Robinson and Cian Mulrooney. First up, Derby-winning trainer Mark Robinson looks back on his roots in the sport, that unforgettable BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby night with Ballyanne Sim back in 2018, and recent highlights with exciting youngster Get Up The Boy. Mark talks through the dog’s performances so far and the plan to target the National Puppy at Shelbourne Park later in the year. He also reflects on other standout greyhounds and the family involvement in the kennel. Then Barry chats with Cian Mulrooney from Galway. Cian shares his his family's story in greyhound racing and their star Annie On Faya, his work with the Galway Supporters Club and the Young People’s Forum, and his family’s sponsorship of the On Faya Galway Oaks. We also look ahead to the Semi-Finals this weekend in Galway.Have a listen to their chat now!
This week on Talking Dogs on Thursday, Barry chats with Caroline Collins from the Curraheen Park Supporters Club.They reflect on the club’s success since its launch in 2023, growing membership numbers, raising prizemoney and supporting races of every grade at the Cork venue. Caroline also shares how the junior nominators initiative has taken off, helping to engage the next generation of greyhound racing fans.They also look forward to what's coming up in Cork including a bumper night they have planned on Saturday 20th September with fantastic racing and boosted prize money on offer. Have a listen to their chat now!#GoGreyhoundRacing #ThisRunsDeep
This week on Talking Dogs on Thursday, Barry chats with Cork trainer Kieran Lynch. They recall some of Kieran's big stars through the years and chat about the current team and recent success with Shanahee Boomer in the Shelbourne Maiden Derby. With a terrific support crew and enthusiastic owners behind him, Kieran looks forward to what's to come on the track and the duo look forward to this weekend's opening round of the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby. Have a listen to their chat now!#GoGreyhoundRacing #ThisRunsDeep #BOYLESportsIGD
Barry chats with legendary trainer Paul Hennessy from Kilkenny.Paul is represented by the duo of Hello Diego and Flight Club in this Saturday’s Callaway Pro Am At Stud Irish St. Leger Final in Limerick. They also look forward to the Shelbourne Maiden Derby Final with a high calibre of talent in the Final this Saturday, including three representatives from Paul’s kennels. We also get an update on Lennies Tank, who was withdrawn from the Bar One Racing Irish Sprint Cup in Dundalk. It’s a busy weekend ahead for Paul and the Black and Amber team as they’ll also be heading to Cork, have a horse racing and a busy social schedule! Have a listen to their chat now!
Tina Finn she gained a massive love for the sport also working with Derby Winner Dolores Ruth in recent times. Kim also takes us through Prince Naseem’s fantastic run in the English Derby in Towcester recently and her plans for the future of this brilliant greyhound. Have a listen to their chat now!
In this week’s episode, Barry chats with Brendan Maunsell. Brendan recaps on a brilliant win for Jim By Two in the Centenary Agri Tipperary Cup 2025 Final in Thurles. He also reflects of the opening round of the 2025 Callaway Pro Am at Stud Irish St. Leger from Limerick where In Good Time put in a superb display in a very talented heat. They also talk about the highly anticipated 2025 Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby a prestigious tournament in the Irish Greyhound Racing calendar. Brendan is hopeful of great success in Shelbourne Park. Check out their chat now.
her recent success in Clonmel. Barry caught up with Mark J. Fanning again this week as the highly anticipated 2025 Centenary Agri Tipperary Cup takes place in Thurles.
In this weeks episode, Barry chats with Mark J Fanning. Mark shares his journey into the sport, tracing his passion back to his grandparents’ deep-rooted love for the dogs. Now making waves with his insightful race notes in The Sporting Press, Mark talks about the thrill of calling races and the behind-the-scenes prep that goes into every commentary.They also preview the much-anticipated Centenary Agri Tipperary Cup, happening this Saturday night — one of the biggest nights on the greyhound racing calendar. Keep an ear out as they spotlight some standout runners including Borna Thyme, Boylesports Blue, and Tarsna Maasai.
This week on Talking Dogs on Thursday, Barry Drake chats with top trainer Robert Gleeson as he gears up for a crucial time in the racing calendar, with the Irish Derby on the horizon.Robert reflects on his roots, his current impressive form, and exciting young prospects like Carrick Scholsey, a greyhound with a big future. They also talk about Toolmaker King, recent success at the Denis Lenihan Unraced in Curraheen Park, and other recent standout performances.Plus, Robert gives us an update on the promising Droopys Kathleen.Listen to their chat now!
This week on Talking Dogs on Thursday Barry is joined by Katelyn Leahy & Caoimhe Gubbins. Katelyn discusses growing up in the sport and her family’s recent success with Lemon Joey who won the Carrick Aldo @ Stud in Clonmel last week. Caoimhe talks about working alongside her dad at their kennels at home and her earliest memories of the sport. Both Katelyn and Caoimhe are members of the Young Person Forum, which held their first meeting in Curraheen a few weeks ago. They speak about the importance of getting more young people involved in the sport and how syndication is great way of achieving this. Have a listen to their chat.
This week Barry is joined by trainer Jack Kennelly & Willie Rigney of Time Greyhound Nutrition.Jack talks about his success in The Islandbridge Open Sprint Final in Shelbourne Park last weekend and looks forward to Friday’s Lee Strang Final in Tralee. Willie Rigney chats about the upcoming Time Club A4 Derby & Time’s newest product Greyhound 18.Have a listen to their chat now!
with the big 25TH anniversary celebration taking place on Friday, 16th May, host Barry Drake looks back at the people, the passion, and the history.Barry is joined by three guests who know Curraheen Park inside and out. Richie O’Regan, who shares memories from the early days and what it was like to be there when the doors first opened; Eoin Walshe, who reflects on how the stadium has evolved and its impact on the community; and Brian Collins, who talks about the racing, the fans, and what makes Curraheen such a special place.The episode also delves into Cork’s rich greyhound racing history, tracing its roots through the legendary Western Road stadium, and into the modern era with Curraheen Park, which officially opened in April 2000. From record crowds to iconic races like the Laurels, Cork’s love for greyhound racing runs deep.And of course, listeners are invited to join the celebrations at Curraheen Park on Friday, 16th May. Tune in to hear the stories, the excitement, and the community spirit that make Curraheen Park so special.
This week on Talking Dogs on Thursday, Barry chat with Chris Walsh. Since starting in 2007 with his first dog and kennel, Chris has grown his operation into a standout in the sport, with some exceptional dogs coming through the ranks. They talk about his journey, the influence of his dad, and how he’s giving back to the greyhound community through sponsorships and support. Plus, don’t miss his upcoming appearance on RTÉ’s Super Garden, airing next Tuesday at 8 PM! Chris also shares insights into his business, Birch & Ferns so check them out on Instagram and their website.
This week Barry is joined by Tommy Caffrey of Clonmel Greyhound Stadium.Tommy talks about the future of rehoming greyhounds with Tipperary Homes for Hounds. The success of Clonmel with quality racing, trainers & greyhounds with Ascot Logan putting in a fantastic performance last Sunday.They also talk about the upcoming Carrick Aldo @ Stud National Produce Stakes with Tom Glynn taking over the sponsorship of the prestigious greyhound event.Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry is joined by Aoife Dunphy of Droopys Stud, sponsors of the Select Stakes at Kilcohan Park Greyhound Stadium. Aoife talks about her family’s deep connection to greyhound racing and her fond memories of the Select Stakes, and the Masters as it was known, in Waterford through the years.They also talk about the new generation of greyhounds coming from Droopys Stud to watch out for!Have a listen to their chat now!
A proud Ciaran O’Sullivan joins Barry Drake this week, fresh from major Classic Success in Shelbourne Park. As a young man heavily involved in the sport, Ciaran shares his family’s lifelong connection with greyhound racing, starting with his grandfather, what’s in store for the future and an update on Unanimouspanther following his retirement. And of course they chat about Hopes Teddy’s fantastic win in the BresBet Easter Cup Final.Listen to their chat now!
In this week’s episode, Barry Drake chats with Geoff Parnaby ahead of the BresBet Easter Cup Final this Saturday night at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium.Geoff shares his lifelong history in greyhound racing and discusses his exciting finalist, Tarnsa Maasai, who has had a fantastic year since making his debut in Thurles.He also gives insight into his future plans for Tarnsa Maasai beyond the big final.Tune in now for all the latest greyhound racing chat!
This week, Barry speaks to young Kildare Greyhound Trainer, Shaun Conway. Shaun gives Barry an insight into his training operations and what’s coming up for the kennels. Of course, they reflect on a wonderful win for Lotto Other News in Kilkenny’s McCalmont Cup.
This week, Barry chats with Robert Gleeson and Willie Rigney. Robert chats to Barry about his recent run of wins including his win across the pond in Newcastle. He also gives an exciting update on Droopys Kathleen’s return and they forward to the Con & Anne Kirby return this weekend.Willie talks about the success of their recent sponsorship of events and his own success in Limerick last weekend.There is plenty to look forward to over the next couple of weeks, have a listen!
This week, Barry chats with WGOBA’s Hughie Keleghan, a lifelong greyhound racing enthusiast whose journey in the sport began as a teenager. Hughie shares his early days working with the Horan family and the experience he gained alongside Sean Purcell. He reflects on how greyhound racing not only shaped his career but also instilled a sense of responsibility that has stayed with him throughout his life.Hughie updates us on two great competitions ongoing in Galway, the Kilcolgan Castle Connacht Derby and the On Faya Stake and expresses his gratitude to Karen Geoghegan and the Mulroney family for their sponsorship of these races.There’s plenty to look forward to in Galway, have a listen!
In this episode of Talking Dogs, Barry chats with Dave Wilson of the Harlequin Syndicate about his deep-rooted connection to greyhound racing. Growing up with a mother who was a greyhound trainer and a father who was a bookmaker in Kent, Dave’s earliest memories are of life around the tracks. Dave reflects on his work experience with the legendary Terry O’Sullivan and how those early days shaped his journey. He also shares stories about his lifelong friendships in the Irish racing scene, his experiences traveling to tracks across Ireland, and his dedication to supporting young trainers who now train dogs for the syndicate.With 47 dogs currently in the syndicate and opportunities to buy shares, Dave gives us a glimpse into what’s next for Harlequin in both the UK and Ireland.
In this exciting episode of Talking Dogs on Thursday, Barry Drake sits down with Liam Dowling and Tom Nolan to discuss the thrilling world of greyhound racing. Liam shares his anticipation for the upcoming Juvenile Classic in Tralee, which kicks off today. With a history of success in the event, having previously won with Ballymac Marino and Ballymac Patriots, Liam is aiming for a hat-trick this year.Tom Nolan, the new sponsor of the Juvenile Classic, talks about his enthusiasm for supporting the event for the next two years. He emphasises how the race is a fantastic way to start the year with the younger greyhounds making their mark. Tom also shares a personal connection to the race, as he has his own greyhound, Silent Kobe, running in the third heat.Tune in for all the insights and excitement as the greyhound racing season begins in the Kingdom!
A special episode of the podcast this week as PwC GPA Camogie Senior Player of the Year for 2024, Laura Hayes, joins Barry Drake for a chat. Last August, the Cork Senior Camogie team claimed a 30th All Ireland title for Cork, with Laura and her team-mates providing another memorable day for fans in the Rebel County.Laura chats to Barry about the success but also the work that goes on behind the scenes to help them to get to the All Ireland Final and to lift the O'Duffy Cup in Croke Park. With great success in their high-performance environment comes costs that they must meet and Cork Camogie have commenced on their fundraising drive for 2025. One of their key fundraising events is a Night at the Dogs in Curraheen Park on Saturday 15th February.Following on from a very successful fundraising night last year, once again Laura and all of the team will be there on the night with the O'Duffy Cup and they look forward to meeting fans young and old on the night. Tickets for the night are just €10 but supporters are asked to purchase via a special link to support the team, click on the Cork Camogie ad on Curraheen Park's website or visit bit.ly/Tickets2025CorkCamogieFundrasier to purchase. Any businesses or individuals looking to support them through sponsorship on the night can email jennifermehigan@outlook.ieWe look forward to welcoming the 2024 All Ireland Senior Camogie Champions and all their supporters to Curraheen Park on Saturday 15th February!
This week, Barry Drake is joined by two accomplished greyhound trainers, James Slevin and Adam Dunford. James, based in Navan, has been immersed in greyhound racing his entire life, achieving 65 winners last year alone. They chat about the positive impact of SIS Racing, his standout greyhounds and the ones to watch, especially a promising new talent, Serious Mickey.Barry also chats to Adam Dunford; known for schooling dogs, Adam highlights Jack Tavern Gem, who clocked an outstanding 28.64 in Kilkenny, and other rising stars plus recalls a memorable night in Clonmel where he secured four winners. Adam has also kicked off the new year with incredible form, achieving six wins out of seven races.Tune in as Barry, James, and Adam discuss their achievements, the promising future of greyhound racing and more.
🎧 Episode 189: Billy Dunne Talking Dogs on Thursday with Barry DrakeKicking off 2025 with this exciting first episode of the new year! Barry Drake sits down with the talented Billy Dunne after his sensational win at the Curraheen Elite Contracting 575 Greyhound Racing Final.Billy shares all the thrilling details of his victory, including the race highlights and the moments that led to his triumph. But that's not all! He also has some incredible news about a new addition to the greyhound family.Tune in to their chat now.
Following the thrilling Winter Racing Festival, Barry sits down with the talented Callum Purdy to celebrate his remarkable double victory. In this episode, Callum opens up about his inspiring journey into the world of greyhound racing, revealing the deep passion that drives him to compete in Ireland. He also shares his ambitious future plans, offering a glimpse into the next chapter of his racing career. The conversation highlights not only his achievements but also the dedication and excitement that fuel his love for the sport.
Barry Drake chats with Myles Roban about his family’s rich greyhound-rearing tradition in Enniscorthy. As a third-generation breeder, Myles shares stories of his grandfather helping establish the local track and how he now works alongside the generation, and his exciting plans for the future.The Robans have enjoyed some wonderful weeks in Shelbourne Park with Elite Josh landing the 2024 Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate Final.
Trainer Robert Gleeson joins Barry Drake to talk about the superstar Droopys Kathleen. Robert tells us a little bit about her background and how jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle came to be involved. They chat about how she's set the sporting world alight and what's next. The Barry chats to Shane Rigney of Time Greyhound Nutrition ahead of their Final in Newbridge tomorrow and they chat about the new Time Club and of course looking forward to the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby Final on Saturday. Have a listen!
Barry Drake is joined by young Limerick greyhound owner and trainer Evan McAuliffe. Evan has just turned 18 and has been making a name for himself in recent times with some great moments on the track. Evan biggest success came recently when he won the Fonez.ie Galway Oaks Final in Galway with Drombeg Pearl, a win worth an impressive €10,000. Evan fills Barry in on his history in the sport and more. Have a listen to their chat now.
Young trainer Lucy Roche joins Barry Drake for a chat this week. Lucy chats about her exciting first year as a trainer, including competing in the Leger in Limerick and a 2nd place in Cork's Laurels Final with Hazelhill Bucko.Lucy's grandfather James was her introduction to the sport and it is still very more a team effort between the duo. Have a listen to the chat.
Barry is joined by two great guests this week. First up breeder Sean Beatty joins him and they chat about the success of Crafty Shivoo in the Bar One Racing Irish Laurels Final and much more. Then Barry catches up with Adam Matthews as they look forward to the 2024 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby which gets underway this weekend in Shelbourne Park.
Trainer Paul Hennessy joins Barry as they look forward to the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby and chat about some of the contenders to watch.Paul reflects on a great night in Cork's Curraheen Park at the Bar One Racing Irish Laurels Final and much more. Join them now for a chat!
As the Laurels gets down to the final stages, Barry chats to Darren Hogan as they run through the Semi-Finals in the 2024 Bar One Racing Irish Laurels. They also discuss the other big events in Cork, including the Bart Leahy Memorial, and look forward to a fantastic night on Saturday 5th October for the Final.Barry then switches attention to Tipp and is joined by Mark J. Fanning from Thurles to talk about their big event, the Kasko Unraced which got underway last weekend and much more.
Tuono Charlie is a name that’s been on many people’s lips over recent months and his trainer Sharon Hunt joins Barry this week. Last weekend, he added another title to his CV winning the Irish Cambridgeshire in Limerick and in doing so notched up an incredible 16 wins in a row! Sharon shares his story and how special he is to them….and Barry asks the question everyone wants to ask – chase the record or chase the Derby? Sharon takes us back to the start of her journey into greyhound training after moving to Ireland in 2010 and how her experience, skills and knowledge have grown over the years. She also shares her very positive experience of the IRGT who have helped her to rehome all of her greyhounds across the world once their racing careers are over.
A busy podcast this week as Barry chats to 6 guests at Monday's Bar One Racing Irish Greyhound Laurels 1st Round Draw.Looking forward to an exciting 5 weeks of racing are Jimmy Barry Murphy, Alex Grassick, Tony Winters, Brian Collins, Damien Holland and sponsor Barney O'Hare of Bar One Racing. They chat all things Laurels and this year's strong contenders for the competition. Listen now and make sure you're part of the action in Cork this Saturday night.
Barry chats to trainer Murt Leahy after enjoying success in Cork last weekend with Tribal Syd winning the Jimmy Barry Murphy & Bar One Racing 525. With a busy schedule for the remainder of the year, they chat about his other dogs in training and what’s to come. Then Barry catches up with Willie Rigney of TIME Greyhound Nutrition. He chats about last weekend at Curraheen Park and looks forward to the TIME Juvenile Derby Final this Saturday night at Shelbourne Park.
🎧 Episode 177Barry chats to Vincent O'Donovan, proud co-owner of Broadstrand Syd, winner of The 2024 Bar One Racing Irish Sprint Cup in Dundalk. Barry also chats to Darren Hogan, Curraheen Park Racing Manager about all the upcoming big race nights happening in Cork and the exciting news of a broadcasting for the Laurels final night!Listen now!
Limerick Greyhound Track hosted the WillWeGo.com Irish St Leger Final Saturday night. Clonbrien Treaty won the event last year, owned by Jim and Muireann Murphy and trained by Graham Holland, and was favourite to retain the title and bridge a gap that goes back to 1972. RTE's reporter Mike McCartney travelled to Limerick, where he first spoke to racing manager Jody Thompson, as he was making his final preparations. This interview was broadcasted on Sunday Sport yesterday, in case you missed it listen here!
Barry chats to trainer Paul Hennessey this week after enjoying great success last Saturday in Kilcohan Park when Barefoot On Song won the John Fitzgerald Memorial Mini Open Bitch Final for owners Bryan & Kathleen Murphy. They also chat about the Will We Go Irish St. Leger with the Final taking place this Saturday night in Limerick Greyhound Stadium, where Paul is doubly represented with Jaytee Craze and Barefoot On Fire. They chat about their chances of winning the Classic.
Barry chats to 2 guests this week. First is a trainer who's enjoyed plenty of success, Owen McKenna. They discuss the fantastic Yorkie Ollie's racing journey so far and his plans for the rest of the year. They also chat about his runner in this year's Will We Go St. Leger at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.We travel to the Kingdom next to chat to Brendan Maunsell, greyhound trainer and chairman of the Kerry GOBA. He talks about the MCP Group 750 competition with the Semi-Finals taking place this Saturday and the Final next week. The discuss the runners in the competition and chat about more upcoming events in Tralee.Have a listen now!
Barry chats to Robert Gleeson this week, fresh from big race success with Droopys Mandolin winning the Time Dundalk International 550. They chat about what’s next for her in her racing career with a trip to Nottingham coming up. They also talk about the ongoing exciting developments at Shelbourne Park and he leaves us with some advice for anyone thinking of getting into the sport of greyhound racing. Have a listen now!
Following the announcement of their incredible €10,000 bonus announced this week for the Irish Sprint Cup and Irish Laurels, sponsor Barney O'Hare from Bar One Racing joins Barry to talk about this exciting new incentive. The Bar One Racing Irish Sprint Cup gets underway this weekend in Dundalk, with the Bar One Racing Irish Laurels starting in September in Curraheen Park. Barney has offered the €10,000 bonus if the same greyhound wins both. Barney and Barney chat about this and more so join them now for the chat!
Barry chats to two guests this week. First up, fresh from big race success with Daleroad Duke, Tom O'Keeffe chats about the Champion Stakes last weekend. He also tells us about his history in the sport and how his love for greyhound racing evolved. Shane Rigney of Time Greyhound Nutrition chats about the Time Confined Derby competition at Limerick which concluded with a fantastic final last Saturday. They also run though 6 of the runners in the Time Dundalk international taking place tomorrow night.
Barry chats to Willie Rigney, sponsor of the Time Greyhound Nutrition Confined Derby as they look forward to the Final taking place this Saturday at Limerick Greyhound Stadium. They chat about the competition so far and give us their thoughts on the finalists. Willie’s business partner John Fox also has a finalist running in Saturday’s Final, Sunnybank Mia, and in the event she wins he will be kindly donating the prize money to charity.Have a listen now!
Not one, not two, but three fantastic guests join Barry this week so make yourself comfortable for some great greyhound chat!With strong Irish hopes in the English Greyhound Derby Final, Barry is joined by 2 men bidding to add another major classic to their impressive CV’s.The first is Paul Hennessey, trainer of BoyleSports Bob as he looks forward to the weekend ahead in Towcester but also in Shelbourne Park as the BoyleSports Champion Stakes begins.Next up is Liam Dowling as he bids for his 1st English Derby title this weekend with 2 great hopes in Ballymac Gizmo and De Lahdedah. Our last guest this week is Mark J. Fanning who previews the Centenary Agri Tipperary Cup Semi-finals both taking place this Saturday night at Thurles Greyhound Stadium.
Barry chats to Racing Officer at Curraheen Park, Darren Hogan about this weekend’s events at the stadium. They chat about tonight's racing with 12 races on the card, as well as tomorrow night when the Denis Linehan Memorial Stake continues into its second week. They also talk about the great work of the Curraheen Park Track Supporters Club. Have a listen now!
As they look forward to a big night in Clonmel this weekend, Barry chats to Pat Morrissey about the Kasko Produce Stakes and more of their upcoming races including the Clonmel Track Members A4 525 Stake Final. Head along to Clonmel this Sunday for a great night out.
Barry Drake chats to Denis Murphy, sponsor of the Callaway Pro Am at Stud Race of Champions at the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium. They chat about his family history & involvement in the sport and he gives his say on this Friday’s Final. John Byrne then talks about his journey to the English Derby with Grouchos Duke and wishes good luck to the runners in this weekend's Quarter-Finals. They also chat other upcoming competitions such as the Tipperary Cup.
Barry chats to trainer Rachel Wheeler after she enjoyed big race success in Kilkenny over the weekend with Moanteen Wildcat winning the Champion Unraced. They also chat about dogs in training and her plans for the year. Barry's second guest is Paidí Walsh, chairman of the Youghal Track Supporters Club. He chats about their fantastic family fun day taking place this Saturday at the County Cork venue. With free entry for all, he tells us just what we can expect from the day!
Barry chats to Andrew Hepburn, sponsor of the DG Foods Ltd A4 Tri-Distance at Kilcohan Park. He chats about the family run business and their sponsorship of this year’s competition, also listening back to last weekend’s Semi-Finals. Mark J. Fanning chats about Thurles racing at the moment with the Split The Pot ON2 525 Final & The Willie Maher Memorial A3 525 Final both this weekend, they run through the finalists and some other races on the card.
Owen McKenna reached a significant milestone of his 2000th winner last weekend. He chats about the recent success, his other dogs in training and upcoming competitions. Barry chats about the fantastic upcoming events in Corks racing calendar the next 3 months, and catches up with Jimmy Barry Murphy as he looks forward to a huge fundraiser for St Finbarr’s GAA at Curraheen Park this Saturday night.
Barry chats to two great trainers today, Paul Hennessey & Damien Matthews.Paul talks about his recent success with Jaytee Etienne at the Towcester Maiden Derby as well as some more events he is looking forward to this year.Damien chats about the fantastic success of 17-year-old Daniel Rahilly at the 2024 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial with their home-bred Knockeen Dazzler, his own dog Merits Inclusion making it to the final, and they also touch on the English Derby and the ongoing renovations at Shelbourne Park.
Barry chats to two guests this week!First to chat is Jim Murphy after enjoying recent success at the BresBet Easter Cup with Clonbrien Treaty. He also tells us about his earliest memories of greyhound racing and other upcoming competitions including the English Greyhound Derby. Barry also chats to Shane Rigney of TIME Greyhound Nutrition, kindly sponsoring the TIME Select Stakes at Kilcohan Park with the Final taking place this Saturday. They run through the 6 finalists and have their say.Have a listen now!
Barry Drake chats with Liam Dowling and Brendan Maunsell ahead of Fridays Ballymac Kingdom at Stud Novice 750 Stake Final at Tralee's Kingdom Greyhound Stadium, kindly sponsored by the Dowling Family. They run through their favourites for Friday and exciting future racing plans to come.Have a listen now! 🎧
This week Barry chats to two guests, trainer Graham Holland and Kilcohan Park’s new Racing Manager, Richie Lawlor. Graham looks back at the 2024 BresBet Easter Cup Final at Shelbourne Park and Clonbrien Treaty’s victory. They also chat about the 2024 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial at Limerick where Graham has two greyhounds still in contention. He finishes with a quick chat about the Greyhound & Petworld Supersprint in Cork.Barry then chats to Richie about his new role, his background and the Time Select Stakes which starts this Saturday night. Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to Carl Perry from BresBet, kind sponsors of the 2024 BresBet Easter Cup at Shelbourne Park ahead of Saturday night's Final. They chat about the competition the past few years, the business of BresBet and give a thorough run through the 6 Easter Cup finalists.Have a listen now!
A busy episode this week as Barry chats to 3 guests! Trainer Robert Gleeson joins us fresh from his recent win in Newbridge’s Brownstown Tango & NTSC Unraced with Droopys Wriggle. They chat about the competition and some of his other dogs in training at the moment. Next Ian Magnier, chats about his new role as Racing Manager in Youghal and the fantastic events that have been going on there thanks to the Youghal Track Supporters Club, giving a special mention to the upcoming Easter Family Fun day this Saturday! Our last guest is Caroline Collins, treasurer of the Curraheen Park Track Supporters Club. They chat about the upcoming Apex Cork Oaks Final and give a run through of the finalists, whilst also looking forward to the Greyhound & Petworld Supersprint. Have a listen now!
A double episode this week as Barry chats to two winning trainers, Liam Dowling and Ian Reilly.Liam chats about his recent win in the Juvenile Classic with Ballymac Patriot, making him a 4 time winner in the competition. He also chats about the upcoming Con & Annie Kirby and making the trip across the pond to Oxford. Ian chats about having a finalist in the Tote Gold Cup as well as his recent win in the Book Your Fishing on Swimbooker A2 525 at Shelbourne Park. He also tells us what dogs to keep an eye out for in the coming months.Have a listen now!
A bumper episode this week as Barry chats to three guests; trainer Dolores Ruth, Darren Hogan, from the racing team at Curraheen Park and Shane Rigney of TIME Greyhound Nutrition. Dolores proudly discusses her recent success with Boylesports Coco in the Tote Gold Cup in Shelbourne Park. Ahead of this Saturday’s Final, Darren runs through each of the finalists in the Time Greyhound Nutrition Cork Cup, before sponsor Shane Rigney joins Barry to talk about the competition so far and some new releases from Time.Have a listen now!
A double episode this week as Barry chats to two guests; Shane Rigney and Mark J. Fanning. First up Shane chats to Barry about the Time Greyhound Nutrition Cork Cup which got underway last weekend. Shane is part of the team in Time who are proud sponsors of the competition and they look forward to a few great weekends ahead in Curraheen Park. Barry then chats to Mark about the Champion Stake in Thurles as they look forward to the Semi-Finals. Mark also chats a bit about how he got involved in commentating in the Tipperary venue and his background in greyhound racing.Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to legendary greyhound and horse trainer, Paul Hennessy.They talk training, current competitions and even touch on horses. He gives a run through of the dogs in the Time Greyhound Nutrition Cork Cup and leaves us with his hopes for the coming year including a potential run in the English Derby!Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to Tom Nolan, sponsor of the CVRT Test Centre Kerry Oaks with the final taking place this Friday at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium. They chat about his sporting career to date, from visiting the track with his father as a young boy to his sponsorship of the sport and his favourite memories. He leaves us with a run through of Friday’s finalists, wishes them all well as they look forward to a great night.Have a listen now!
Barry has two guests this week so get comfortable and enjoy the next 20 minutes! Our guests this week are greyhound trainer Liam Dowling & Barry McSweeney, chairman of the Curraheen Park Supporters Club.Liam chats about the Nolan C.V.R.T. Test Centre Kerry Oaks which is currently ongoing at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium, giving a run through of the dogs in the competition. They also discuss the Rural Kennels Unraced Stake and the Juvenile Classic.Barry McSweeney chats about the Curraheen Park Track Supporters Club and the fantastic work they do for the sport. He tells us about the growth of the club with a further 89 members joining in 2023 and giving out approximately €90,000 in prize money.Have a listen now!
Barry chats to Brian Collins, Munster Regional Racing Manager as he looks back on a wonderful 2023 at Curraheen Park.They chat events, sponsorships, Curraheen Park Supporters Club and of course the Bar One Irish Laurels, in partnership with the Friends and Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing.Have a listen now!
Barry chats to 2 guests this week! First up is Des Gilbert who along with his wife Marie enjoyed great success in the Christmas Oaks training Rathdown Molly to victory. She also shared the top spot in the 2023 greyhound racing rankings based on wins with an impressive 15 wins last year. Young Cork trainer Jake Faul also joins Barry to recap on a very successful 2023 which saw Jake top the Private Trainer rankings nationwide. He leaves us with his hopes for 2024. Have a listen now!
A double episode this week with two guests including Berkie Browne and Liam Peacock. Berkie previews the upcoming Eric Browne Memorial Kingdom Derby final taking place this Friday in Tralee and gives us a run through of the 6 finalists. Liam recaps on the year he’s had including the sponsorship of the Micky O'Sullivan Memorial. He looks ahead to the Semi-Finals and leaves us with his hopes for the new year.Have a listen now!
This Thursday Barry chats to two guests, both with big nights to look forward to. First up is Berkie Browne. Berkie chats about the Eric Browne Memorial Kingdom Derby in Tralee, sponsored by his family, which gets underway tomorrow, whilst also reflecting on last years competition. Berkie & Barry run through all 4 heats and give their say.Next up is Cork GAA legend, Jimmy Barry Murphy. He chats about the upcoming Cork Camogie Fundraiser night at Curraheen Park this Saturday 9th December. Jimmy also looks back on the highlights of year for greyhound racing in Cork.
This week’s episode takes us to Kerry to young greyhound trainer Jack Kennelly.In just a few short years, Jack has really made his mark in the Irish racing and is looking forward to his first Classic Final on Saturday as Beepers Lariat takes his place in the 2023 WillWeGo.com Irish St. Leger Final. Barry chats to Jack about the Final in Limerick and much more – have a listen now!
A bumper episode this week with Cork and Dublin in focus. Barry chats to All Star and All Ireland winning Cork Camogie Captain Amy O’Connor as they prepare for a massive fundraiser in Curraheen Park in December. Another Cork sporting legend, Jimmy Barry Murphy, also joins Barry to look forward to the night. Turning to Shelbourne Park, Justin Young chats to Barry ahead of a memorial night next week in memory of the late Jim McCann. Join them now for the chat and to learn about the plans for both events.
This Thursday Barry chats to Richard Irwin, a man who enjoyed some great success at Mullingar Greyhound Stadium over the weekend with his dog Pavilion Fire claiming the title of the 2023 RPGTV Fair Warrior.They chat about the fantastic night that it was, as well as his background in the sport and his hopes for the future.Have a listen now!
As we look forward to the opening round of the WillWeGo.com Irish St. Leger in Limerick this Saturday night, Barry is joined by trainer Karol Ramsbottom. They chat about the exciting news of a new sponsor and take a look at Karol's team for this year's competition. He has a host of popular trackers in the competition, including the return of the wonderfully named Pablo Escobark.Have a listen and be sure to check out the Leger action on Saturday night. #IrishStLeger #GoGreyhoundRacing #ThisRunsDeep
This week Barry chats to Paidi Walsh, chairman of the Youghal Track Supporters Club.They reflect on the great success that was the Night of Champions at the Youghal track a few weeks ago, and chat about the Bar One Racing Irish Laurels last weekend, where the Youghal Track Supporters Club kindly sponsored a race.With two more very exciting nights coming up in Youghal, they chat all about them.Have a listen now!
This week Barry is joined by 5 guests, as they all look forward to Saturday night’s Bar One Racing Irish Laurels Final. Barry welcomes 4 fantastic greyhound trainers including David Murray, Owen McKenna, Graham Holland and Johnny Linehan. All with hopes to win the coveted classic. We are also joined by Cork sporting legend Jimmy Barry Murphy who joins to chat about the competition so far. “Some new stars have burst onto the scene in Cork” he says. They also chat about the line-up, and he gives his predictions on the Final.
Barry has a Time Greyhound Nutrition Juvenile Derby double-header this week as he chats to winning trainer Robert Gleeson and sponsor Willie Rigney. Robert talks us through Droopys Flytline’s career to date and plans for the future, including a potential run in the Winter Racing Festival. Willie Rigney of TIME Greyhound Nutrition, generous sponsors of the event join us then to chat about the brand and their product offering, and how he is encouraging open communication with his customers. Have a listen!
Excitement is building in Cork ahead of the 2023 Bar One Racing Irish Laurels – with no fewer than 5 guests joining Barry this week to talk about it!First up is the legend himself JBM, Jimmy Barry Murphy, as he reminds us of the importance of the Laurels locally and the excitement of having a good local entry as he highlights some of the fantastic stars who’ll take to traps this weekend.Joining the Friends and Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing as sponsors this year are Bar One Racing and both John McDonnell and CEO Barney O’Hare chat to Barry about coming on board and their investment in the sport and in their stores as they expand across the country.Frank Nyhan, Chairman of GRI, and Board Member Alex Grassick both look forward to 5 fantastic weeks for the “Derby of Cork”.
This week Barry chats to 3 guests. So grab yourself a cup of tea and enjoy the next 30 minutes!
First on the Podcast today we have the 2023 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby winning trainer, Jennifer O'Donnell. Jennifer tells us how it felt to secure the win Saturday night with an outstanding time of 29.11. The fastest Derby win in history. We hear about The Other Kobe’s path to the Derby Final, including his performance in last year’s Derby, where his brother took the title.
Next we hear from one of The Other Kobes owners, Adain Walsh. Aidan tells us about always being around greyhounds as a child, his father or uncles always had a dog around. He tells us the story of searching for a "Derby Dog" and with that, lead him to Jennifer O'Donnell. The rest is history!
Last up today, but certainly not least is Darren Hogan, racing support officer at Curraheen Park. Darren tells us a bit about himself and how he got into his current role. Himself & Barry discuss the fantastic racing seen at the Kasko Derby over the last few weeks. They leave us with a run through of the trap draw for Saturday's Kasko Derby Final.
Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to Paidi Walsh, chairman of the Youghal Track Supporters Club, as they look forward to a big night of celebration on Monday 28th.
The Night of Champions, which was launched last week at the Regal Cinema in Youghal, will commemorate just some of the track superstars who began their career or raced in Youghal.
The night will also mark the end of the summer season in Youghal with plenty for all ages to enjoy including a Best Dressed Lady competition, kids balloon art & face painting, goody bags and much more. Youghal has welcomed hoards of tourists and racegoers over the summer with their free summer admission, sponsored by the Youghal Track Supporters Club, a big hit.
Have a listen to their chat now!
It's all things Cork this week as Barry and his two guests highlight the Kasko Derby, with Round two taking place this weekend.
Barry starts by chatting to the Racing Manager of Curraheen Park, Brian Collins. They chat about the fantastic upcoming events happening in the stadium, and look back at some stand-out performances from last week's Kasko Derby opening round.
Next, Barry speaks to Mossy O'Leary of Kasko. They chat about Mossy's own passion for Greyhounds, be it breeding or racing. "A labour of love" he calls it.
They chat more about the wonderful sponsorship of the Kasko Derby and how it came to be, and lastly Mossy also gives us a run down on a couple of the great quality Kasko products to look out for!
Have a listen now
This week Barry chats to two young greyhound trainers, both of which have runners in this weekend’s Round 3 of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby!
Barry speaks to Scott Phelan, from Co. Wicklow about the kennels he has built at home, how the Pints-Of-Heino syndicate was formed during lockdown, and how lucky they were to get a dog like ThreeSixFive.
Next up is Gearoid O'Brien from Waterford, at the young age of 23 they chat about his family's involvement in the sport and what it means to have a dog like Dromana Dano running in the biggest event of the greyhound racing calendar.
Have a listen now!
Enniscorthy Greyhound Track featured on South East Radio yesterday. They chatted all things Enniscorthy as the track celebrates their 90 year anniversary this week. Have a listen to the memories and stories now!
It's all things Enniscorthy this week as the stadium gears up for their 90-year celebration next week!
Barry chats to manager Bridget about the celebrations planned and what we can look forward to. They chat about how she became involved with the stadium and the various roles she’s had within the industry. Bridget commends the staff, as well as the volunteers & the 250 members who all work together to benefit the stadium.
Barry also chats to Pat Hyland. Pat shares with us how he got into the sport and how he is keeping the greyhound racing passion alive through his own children. He also tell us of the fantastic work that has been acheived through the membership fund, and the importance of Benefit nights for the stadium.
Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to two guests!
First up is winning trainer, Robert Gleeson. They chat about his recent success with Droopys Flytline winning the 2023 Denis Linehan Solicitors ON1 Unraced Stake. They also chat about Up The Style, a serious tracker in the making, and more including his family's involvement in the sport.
Our second guest is a very special sponsor of Cork Greyhound Racing, Denis Linehan. Denis has always had an interest in greyhounds and is currently on the market for one himself! They chat about his sponsorship and how the event has produced many high profile names. Barry also thanks him for his continued support.
Have a listen now.
This week Barry chats to another man of the moment hailing from the rebel county, Brendan O'Connell. Brendan has returned home from Towcester last weekend after winning the English Greyhound Derby with his dog Gaytime Nemo.
Barry chats to him about the fairytale success it was, with the odds stacked against him, Gaytime Nemo soared to the finish line. They chat about his early days in the sport, his family’s involvement, and the lifelong friends he has made along the way.
Have a listen now!
This week Barry is catching up with the man of the moment, JJ Fennelly, fresh from a tremendous victory with Burgess Supreme winning the National Produce Stakes in Clonmel.
JJ and his mother-in-law Sheila Spillane, recent Hall of Fame inductee, are known and respected across the country with their Burgess greyhounds, a prefix that has part of Irish Greyhound Racing for almost 70 years.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry chats to Tipperary man, Pat Morrissey. Pat has previously reported for the Sporting Press and has been attending the Clonmel track for almost 50 years!
They discuss the upcoming National Produce Stakes Final taking place at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium this Sunday. Ahead of a predicted "outstanding final" and after many weeks of great attendance, they run through the finalists and give their say.
They also chat about the great work that's been done at the Clonmel track in recent years and how important the greyhound racing community is to them.
Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to Hobbsy, also known as Jonathan Hobbs of Racing Post Greyhounds TV. They chat about the ongoing English Greyhound Derby action in Towcester and the Irish hopefuls.
Have a listen now!
One of Ireland's best known trainers, Paul Hennessy, joins Barry Drake on this week's episode.
They have plenty to chat about including great recent success in Enniscorthy and Cork and more, including Paul's Horse Racing career.
Of course with the English Greyhound Derby in full swing, the duo chat about Paul's contenders in the competition as they look forward to Round 3 in Towcester this weekend.
Have a listen!
This week we're bringing you a double episode so get comfortable as you're in for a treat! Imagine buying your first dog and he turns out to be Ballyhimikin Jet.. this was true for our first guest, East Cork man, Billy Dunne. The man of the moment after the Ballyhimikin Rex's win at the Champion 550 Final in Shelbourne Park. They chat about how Billy got into the sport, Ballyhimikin Jet's success as a sire producing such high success trackers, and touch on his success on the GAA field also. Next up, also hailing from East Cork we have another young man who's hitting plenty of winners in recent times - Daniel Cronin. With Cluain Rapid and Cluain Creed as some of his recent impressive winners, they chat about how he got into the sport with his father, their association with trainer Robert Gleeson and Daniel tells us about some of the great nights they've had throughout the years. Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to two guests! Both busy preparing for the English Greyhound Derby.First guest up is Kevin O'Brien, owner of Clona Duke, a sensational tracker that set records at the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial earlier this year, followed by another stunning performance at the Time Greyhound Nutrition Select Stakes in Waterford. Our second guest is a young greyhound trainer from Kerry, making waves in the world of greyhound racing the last few years, Jack Kennelly. Jack made the trip to Towcester over the weekend where Beepers Lariat made it into the winners enclosure, fantastic news as he prepares to set off again soon to enter the English Greyhound Derby.We wish them the best of luck, have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to a young greyhound trainer from Youghal, Jake Faul, who has enjoyed 17 successes this year alone! Owning greyhounds is certainly a family affair for the Fauls with all generations involved and sharing a love of greyhounds. Jake chats about the importance of social media in sharing the love that they have for greyhounds and leaves us with his hopes for the future. Why not have a listen now.
This week Barry chats to one of the biggest names in the business of greyhound trainers, Graham Holland. Having recently enjoyed success at Shelbourne Park's BresBet Easter Cup, with Swords Rex claiming the €25,000 to the winner prize. They discuss the fantastic final that was last Friday nights Con & Annie Kirby Memorial in Limerick. Another great success story for Graham, with Clonbrien Treaty taking the win.Graham won the English Greyhound Derby last year with Romeo Magico, and is again preparing to travel across the water and enter this years competition. He also tells us which dogs are currently under the radar that you can keep an eye out for!Have a listen now
This week, Barry chats to a man well-known in the industry, Willie Rigney, co-owner of Time Greyhound Nutrition. They chat about the action in the opening round of the Select Stakes in Waterford’s Kilcohan Park, which is kindly sponsored by Time Greyhound Nutrition. Willie tells us about their recently announced sponsorship plans, which will benefit the sport across Ireland. Why not have a listen now and be sure to head along to the Semi-Finals of the Time Select Stakes this Saturday.
This week Barry chats to two guests, both having enjoyed recent success at the Enniscorthy track.First we take a trip to Gorey, Co. Wexford to chat to Tracey Fitzpatrick. Tracey had 3 runners on the card last weekend at Enniscorthy, and came home with three winners!Our second guest of the day is Dave Bourke, from Oola, Co. Limerick. A man who grew up with the sport, taking trips to his local track as a child. Dave had great success last weekend with Haka Carlow winning the Michael Fortune Memorial Stake in Enniscorthy.Have a listen now!
This week, Barry chats to Michael Butler following his family’s great success in Curraheen Park last weekend when Maries Wedding won the Apex Global Resources Ltd Cork Oaks.They chat about the win, his early years in the sport and hopes for the future. Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to a man who has been involved with greyhounds his whole life, David Lynch. Finding a love for them originally as a child when his uncle had greyhound facilities and a strong interest in the sport.David talks about his recent success at Curraheen Park with Deelish Champ and more. Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to David Harrington, chairman of the Curraheen Park Supporters Club. David chats about how the club came about, their work in race sponsorship in Cork and the terrific success they’ve been enjoying with members extending beyond Cork and across Munster. David say's they have had huge support from the local greyhound community, and they have big dreams for the future.Have a listen now!
We have a two for one special this week as Barry chats to greyhound trainer, Ian Reilly, and Time Greyhound Nutrition Cork Cup Sponsor, Willie Rigney.Ian is a talented greyhound trainer and shares with us some of his impressive race success stories, including his most recent win with Bogger Hunter at the Paddy Kehoe Suspended Ceilings Gold Cup in Shelbourne Park last Saturday night. Willie chats to us about his new venture with Time Greyhound Nutrition and the hopes he has for the future of the brand. Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to Richy Brannigan, a man who's passion for greyhound racing is evident. He chats about his life long family involvement with the sport, promoting greyhounds as pets and even tells us about breeding the famous Derby finalist Run Happy. Richy also chats to us about his hopes for the future.. Why not have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to Michael O'Dwyer, a greyhound fanatic living in Hawaii. Michael tells us about the importance of greyhound racing in his family and also the infamous dog, Rural Hawaii and his Derby win a few years ago. Michael was at Clonmel at the weekend and describes the scenes as being at an old Produce Stakes Final where he struggled to find a space in the carpark! He also chats to us about all of the good work being done in the community and the importance of supporting our local tracks. Have a listen now!
This week we have two special guests joining us! Our first is leading greyhound trainer, Liam Dowling from Ballymac Kennels. Liam tells us about his four dogs as they prepare for the final of the Eric Browne Memorial Kingdom Derby at Tralee on Friday night. Our second guest this week is the treasurer of Clonmel Greyhound Stadium, Tommy Caffery. Tommy tells us about all of the upcoming racing this weekend and all the great work going on at Clonmel. He also speaks about an upcoming benefit night which is very important for the track and will feature prizes such as 3 different hotel stays, a €200 voucher for the Horse & Jockey, and 3 stable tours.Have a listen now!
This week were heading down south to the Kingdom to chat to the one and only Berkie Browne, a widely known bookmaker from Listowel.Berkie is very kindly sponsoring the Eric Browne memorial in Tralee in memory of his father who was another well known bookmaker. Berkie chats about which dogs have caught his eye the past year and discusses their recent performances. A true expert on the form book, he gives his opinions on the semi finals tomorrow night.Have a listen now!
This week we’re heading across the water, as Barry chats to Billy McMahon, a well-known Greyhound racing supporter from Essex.They discuss his early love for greyhounds which began as a child when his friend’s father brought them along to watch the races. Over the years, Billy developed a love and appreciation for Greyhounds and has his own that he races and adores.Last weekend, Billy enjoyed a great Irish win with Billericay Joe in Kilcohan Park. Have a listen to their chat.
It's the first Talking Dogs Podcast of 2023 and we have a very special episode to start the new year.This episode features our most listened to Podcast guests of 2022. We hear from Dolores Ruth, Aaron O'Hanlon & Mickey Rooney, Pat Buckley and Francis Murray Jr.Have a listen now!
For the final podcast episode of 2022, Barry is joined by Rásaíocht Con Éireann / Greyhound Racing Ireland Chairman, Frank Nyhan. Frank recaps on what has been a fantastic year for Greyhound Racing in Ireland as crowds returned in all their glory post-restrictions and enjoyed our big events and superb racing. He also touches on some of the other big news in our sport and industry throughout the year.Have a listen now to their chat, and don’t forget you can also read Frank’s chairman’s Christmas address on Talking Dogs on http://bit.ly/3WxEmUq
Barry speaks to Michael Heeney, a man who has been involved in dogs for a long time joins us from Waterford. He talks about his memories over the years and recent racing highs with his loveable Sentimental Lad, co-owned with his daughter Eimear. Sentimental Lad has just recently retired from the track but has given the duo some wonderful nights, included a track record performance in Shelbourne Park. Michael ends with some very profound words as he looks forward to the future in our great sport:"The past is in our heads, the future is in our hands”Have a listen now!
Barry chats to Rachel Wheeler, a talented owner & trainer ahead of the biggest night of Limericks racing calendar, the Matchbook Irish St. Leger Final.
In this episode, Barry chats to Noel Holland, a man who has been involved with greyhounds throughout his entire life. Noel began working in the greyhound industry when he was a young man in Youghal and over the years he held multiple positions such as Judge, Racing Manager, General Manager and Director. Over the years, he has seen some of the greatest greyhounds of all time, and recalls memories of one legend who needs no introduction, Spanish Battleship. Noel recalls the magic of the old Western Road and the move to Curraheen Park, which Noel praises as fantastic circuit.
Have a listen to the chat and memories now.
This week Barry Drake speaks with Good Cody’s trainer Patrick Guilfoyle after their great win in the Friends and Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing Irish Laurels Final in Cork last Saturday night.
Pat gives us an insight into Good Cody’s personality and life at home and what it means to win such a brilliant classic. He gives Barry an update from the Magical Kennels, including puppies whom he hopes will be hitting the track by spring.
Have a listen to their chat now.
Barry Drake speaks with Cork legend Jimmy Barry Murphy as we look forward to a big weekend in Cork.
Curraheen Park hosts the Final of the 2022 Friends and Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing Irish Laurels this Saturday and Jimmy is looking forward to seeing "the best dogs in the country" in action.
He gives his thoughts on the competition and of course looks forward to the Final of the Bart Leahy Memorial, which will pay tribute to our dear friend Bart.
Have a listen to their chat now.
Barry speaks to Midleton man Michael O'Keefe in this week's episode.
Michael takes us on a wonderful trip down memory lane with stories from days gone by. For 30 years Michael ran a schooling track and he recalls the days when city owners who would often keep a pair of greyhounds would visit twice a week to give their greyhounds a run.
Of course, he's also enjoying this year's Friends and Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing Irish Laurels and he and Barry chat about the action.
Michael listens in every week to the podcast so we're delighted to have him as our guest this week. Enjoy the listen!
Barry Drake is joined by Fred Malzard this week, part of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby winning syndicate Whatever You Like, owners of Born Warrior.
They chat about that memorable night in Shelbourne Park and the celebrations since but also about Fred's earlier family involvement in Greyhounds.
Have a listen now.
This week, Barry Drake is joined by our 2022 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby winning trainer, Jennifer O'Donnell.
Jennifer recalls a memorable night in Shelbourne Park with Born Warrior and fills us in on the next plans. Of course, Jennifer's father and mother are both Derby winning trainers so they chat about memories of those too.
Have a listen to their chat.
Heading to Meath this week, Barry Drake speaks to Wayne Leonard.
Wayne wasn't born in a greyhound family but always admired the sport of greyhound racing and eventually took the plunge and bought 2 pups. He shares his journey so far and how he got great help from the community in finding his feet in the sport.
Wayne enjoyed some great success recently with Luna Rocket, who he co-owns, winning the Greyhound and Pet World A1 Stake in Curraheen Park.
Have a listen to their chat now.
With all eyes on Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium ahead of Saturday's Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby, Barry Drake spoke to Racing Manager Michael Dempsey.
Have a listen as they look forward to two cracking Semi-Finals!
Be there in Dublin or watch at your local Greyhound Stadium racing on Saturday or TUNE IN ON TV on Virgin Media 2 or Racing Post Greyhounds TV
Bart Leahy was a great friend to many, especially in Cork and Curraheen Park, and so it is fitting that his memory will be honoured with a special event in Curraheen Park to coincide with this year's Laurels.
Barry Drake speaks to Jimmy Barry Murphy to learn more about it.
Barry Drake heads to Gorey this week as he chats to Owen Doyle.
Owen recently hit a big milestone in his training career getting his 100th winner last week in his local track in Enniscorthy.
Owen chats about his early days in greyhounds, how his career is going and fills us in on some of the greyhounds currently in the kennel. Of course for the time of year it is, they touch on the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby too.
Have a listen to their chat now.
Barry Drake is joined by Vinny Grennan, a man who has been involved in the world of greyhound racing for over 35 years. He shares tales of how his love for greyhounds developed and time working with some greats of the sport.
Vinny is also known for his media work and back in the Spring he was delighted to share a picture of two sporting legends coming together - Honeysuckle and Susie Sapphire. The picture has been spread far and wide of these two great ladies.
Recently, Vinny organised a fundraising a young woman who had been diagnosed with cancer and he updates Barry on his great success.
Have a listen to their chat.
This week Barry Drake is joined by trainer Leonard O’Hanlon.
Leonard is no stranger to success and is well known within the greyhound racing industry. He starts by sharing his earliest memories of greyhound racing as he reminisces on fond memories shared with his grandad trackside across the country. From a young age Leonard was fascinated by greyhounds and soon fell in love with the amazing sport. He went on to share the amusing story of purchasing his first greyhound and how a bus trip home with the dog was simply not going to cut it!
Leonard chats about his family’s involvement with horse racing with his brother, Paddy O’Hanlon, enjoying Irish Grand National Success. Leonard suffered an injury form a kick from horse at a young age and he chats about how this incident led him to move his attention to greyhound racing.
After he completed his Leaving Cert, Leonard went on to work with some high-profile greyhound trainers of the time including Ian Reilly. Leonard now has his own set up at home where he schools and trains greyhounds with his plans for developing and improving. He chats about Beepers Chris who is currently racing in the 2022 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby.
Listen to their chat now!
On this week’s episode Barry Drake chats to Aaron O’Hanlon and Mickey Rooney.
First up Barry talks to a young and passionate greyhound supporter from Cashel, Aaron O’Hanlon. Aaron has experienced history in the horse racing industry, and he talks about the many tips and skills he has gained from over the years in relation to the training of an animal. Although he has no major connections into the greyhound industry, he says greyhounds have always been in his heart. Aaron has become serious with greyhounds in the last year as he tries to cover all angels from whelping bitches to training and schooling greyhounds. He chats about his goals of expanding his current facilities and his hopes of schooling and producing a high calibre of dogs.
They move their attention to the 2022 Bar One Racing Irish Sprint Cup currently running at Dundalk Stadium. Aaron is represented by Serene Ace and he chats about his sensational performances to date in the competition. Aaron looks forward to Monday nights final as he wishes all participants and connections the very best of luck. Next up Barry chats with Mickey Rooney. They also discuss the Dundalk Classic where Mickey is represented by Runnita Shay. Mickey has spent many years attending the Sprint Cup Final at Dundalk, so it means a lot to him to be represented in this year’s final at his local stadium. He chats about the talented trainer John A. Linehan and his superb involvement with the dog.
Mickey goes on to share the emotional and magical story behind the purchase of Runnita Shay. He purchased this superstar at a tough time in his life when his brother Seamus fell ill. He talks fondly of his late brother and how the special name Runnita Shay came about.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry Drake is Joined by Thomas O’Donovan and John McDonnell for the 100th episode of Talking Dogs On Thursday.
First up in the hot seat is Thomas O’Donovan. Tommy enjoyed another great success on Saturday night as One Time Only ran to victory in the BoyleSports Champion Stakes Final in Shelbourne Park. One Time Only is no stranger to big race wins with the Laurels at Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium already under his belt. Thomas and his family savored the moment of last weekend’s success and they now look ahead to the 2022 Boylesports Irish Greyhound Derby.
Next up Barry chats with John McDonnell of Bar One Racing. The 2022 Bar One Racing Irish Sprint Cup is currently centre stage at Dundalk Stadium. John chats about Bar One Racing involvement in the competition as they head into to their 19th year of sponsoring the event, and they look at the high standard of competition to date as he gives the latest statistics on betting figures ahead of Saturday night’s semi-finals.
Have a listen now!
🎧𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝟗𝟗:𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐦 𝐃𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝🎧
This week we head to Waterford as Barry Drake chats to young greyhound trainer, Adam Dunford.
Adams starts by telling us how he got into the greyhound racing industry, his dad Tommy Dunford and how he influenced his love for the sport.
Adam took out his trainer’s license only a year and a half ago and wow has he made tracks since! At only 23 years of age Adam has achieved so much. This year he has had a 34% strike rate with 32 winners from 89 runners! Adam chats about the tricks of the trade that he has learned over the years from some of the best in the business including the very successful Graham Holland.
They move their attention to the Bar One Racing Sprint Cup at Dundalk Greyhound Stadium. Adam has landed an impressive treble win in the opening two rounds of the competition. He chats about his three super stars: Fantasy Reece, Fantasy Jesse, and Shancol Johnny. Adam is looking forward for the rest of the competition to unfold.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry Drake is joined by brothers, Peter, and Shane Divilly who recently enjoyed success with Crafty Kokoro in the 2022 Corn Cuchulainn.
First up, Barry chats to Shane about his earliest memories of greyhound racing. Shane says the love for greyhound racing came from both his mother and fathers’ side of the family and how he had no other option but to be involved in greyhound racing! He chats about the Crafty prefix which he says comes from his dad’s side. Shane moves on to talking about the family involvement with the kennels and how they all have their own role to play, including his mother, Noelle.
Next up, Barry chats to the registered owner of Crafty Kokoro, Peter Divilly. Peter talks about Crafty Kokoro’s journey in the Corn Cuchulainn competition. He chats about her continued improvement throughout the competition and how they knew they were in with a chance of success of the night based on her recent performances.
Peter chats about the great taste of success and how Crafty Kokoro’s next target is the 2022 Boyle Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.
Have a listen to their chat now!
In this week’s podcast Barry Drake is joined by a trainer who has enjoyed amazing recent success, Patrick Guilfoyle.
It has been a particularly good year for Patrick to date with Explosive Boy being the most recent dog to add to Guilfoyle’s list of victories with the 2022 Dundalk International. Patrick chats about how Explosive Boy is getting strong and stronger and how he is a more relaxed dog this year which has been a contributing factor to his success. Patrick was doubly represented at the 2022 Dundalk International by Explosive Boy and Good Cody, and he says both dogs ran powerful races with Good Cody securing 3rd place. His next destination for Good Cody is the 2022 Irish Greyhound Derby.
They reflect on some more of Patricks recent victories. They discuss Magical Mary, the 2022 RPGTV Irish Cesarewitch winner and the smashing winning performance of Vincenzo in last Saturday nights Shelbourne Champion 500 Final.
They turn their attention to the 2022 Corn Cuchulainn Open 750 final which will take place this Saturday evening at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium. Pat is represented by star performer Magical Poppy in this competition.
They end their chat talking about Wi Can Dream as Pat discusses his promising recovery that he has made since his tendon injury.
Have a listen to their chat now!
Barry Drake is joined by a lady who has enjoyed unbelievable success recently, Marissa Molloy.
Marissa starts by reminiscing on her earliest memories of greyhound racing with her brother Stephen as she chats about her family’s massive background in the greyhound industry. She talks fondly of her late dad who has taught her so much about the breeding and training of greyhounds.
Marissa shares memories of parading dogs at her local track in Galway Greyhound Stadium as she chats about the generational sport that greyhound racing is. She is thrilled to see the younger generation coming through. She chats about the fantastic celebrations that were had last weekend to celebrate Galway’s 90th birthday.
They then turn their attention to Raha Mofo, the 2022 Sporting Press Online Edition Irish Oaks winner. Marissa shares memories of the special night as she thanks everyone for their amazing support since the success. Marissa is looking forward to the bright future ahead for this powerful performer.
Have a listen now!
This week Barry chats to the man of the moment, Graham Holland.
Before chatting about his 2022 English Derby success, Graham chats about his earliest memories of greyhound racing. He was born into the greyhound industry and since has worked with greyhounds all his life. He reflects on some of his magical successes to date including his first classic win with Sevenheads Bay in the Laurels at Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium.
They turn their attention to the 2022 English Greyhound Derby as Graham chats about Romeo Magico’s journey in this year’s competition. He chats about the special night and the amazing win for the Firmager family and all connections of Romeo Magico. Grahams next hope for this talented dog is the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby.
They end their chat by discussing The Denis Linehan Solictors Unraced Final taking place this Saturday evening at Curraheen Park, in which Graham is represented by Bockos Crystal.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry Drake is joined by East Cork man Liam Twomey.
Liam starts by chatting about his family involvement within the greyhound industry, they bred and schooled many successful greyhounds including an English Leger winner. He acknowledges his dad’s day-day work with their greyhounds at home.
With the week that is in it, they turn their attention to the Sporting Press Online Edition Irish Oaks. Liam chats about the fairy tale story and unbelievable win of Witches Bell in the 2016 Irish Oaks. He reflects on the great feeling and fond memories of the night. He hopes he will enjoy more successes like this one in the future. Liam is hoping for another local success in the Final on Saturday night, hoping John Linehan and Droopys Nextone soar to victory.
Have a listen to their chat now!
Tipperary man John Byrne joins Barry Drake on this week’s podcast.
John shares his earliest memories of greyhound racing with his family and how he gained an interest in the sport. He learned the bread and butter of greyhound racing through work experience at many well-known kennels including Shelbourne Stud.
John was in Clonmel Greyhound Stadium on Sunday evening for the Produce Stakes Final where he says the atmosphere was electric. The night was made even better when John’s Courty Girl won the Kieran Purcell Snr. Memorial Guys & Dolls Stake Final in an impressive time of 28.60! He hopes he will enjoy more successes like this one in the future.
Have a listen to their chat now!
Trainer Pat Buckley is Barry’s guest on this week’s podcast.
Pat enjoyed a successful night at the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium last Saturday with the sensational Flashing Willow setting a new 325 track record and winning the 2022 Lee Strand Final with Tullig Cyrname.
The duo the turn their attention to Towcester Racecourse and the 2022 English Derby and Pat updates us on his team there.
They end their chat by talking about the final of the Larry O’Rourke Produce Stake taking place this Sunday evening at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium. Pat talks about his runner, Gaston Pecas and the overall high standard of the final.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week, Barry Drake chats to an enthusiastic greyhound supporter, Damien Lonergan.
Damien chats about his earliest memories of greyhound racing at the old track in Clonmel and how his interest in the sport grew from racing with his dad, who he attended many Produce Stakes with.
The duo chat about Damien’s connection with trainer Owen McKenna and of course they have to mention the wonderful Susie Sapphire.
Damien is a man who loves his job and is very thankful to John Boyle of BoyleSports for his involvement in greyhounds. He shares his thoughts on the Sporting Press Online Edition Irish Oak at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium, the 2022 English Derby at Towcester and the Larry O’Rourke National Produce Stake at Clonmel.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week, Barry Drake talks to two leading trainers who are both biding for English Derby success.
First Barry chats to Liam Dowling who is currently based in Ruddington, busy getting his team of five dogs settled ahead of the 2022 English Derby. Liam talks about the build-up and excitement ahead of the opening round of the Derby tonight in Towcester. Liam chats about his pacy performers including Ballymac Ben and Hoodoo Brown. Liam is looking forward to the challenge ahead. He also chats about Ballymac Ariel who is running in Heat 1 of the Sporting Press Online Edition Irish Oaks in Shelbourne Park on Saturday evening.
Barry chats next to another top trainer, Karol Ramsbottom. Karol has a team of three dogs competing in this year’s English Derby; Conamara, Deadly Showtime and Deadly Destroyer. Karol also chats about owner Garry Hannon who is a fantastic supporter of greyhound racing.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry Drake chats with the treasurer of Clonmel Greyhound Stadium, Tommy Caffrey.
Greyhounds are in the blood for Tommy who spent growing up at the greyhound track in Navan.
Tommy is extremely passionate about the progression of Clonmel Greyhound Stadium. One of his main aims is to get the crowd and buzz back to the stadium along with improving the track and its facilities.
They also chat about the upcoming Larry O’Rourke National Produce Stake. The competition begins this Sunday at Clonmel with eight top class heats of high-quality greyhounds including the 2022 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial winner, Swords Rex. Tommy is hoping to welcome a huge crowd to the stadium to this event over the next few weeks.
Have a listen to their chat now!
As the dust settles on Friday’s spectacular 2022 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Final, Barry Drake speaks with Graham Holland of Riverside Kennels.
For the few that are unfamiliar Graham is the proud trainer of the 2022 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial champion, Swords Rex. Better known to them as ‘Gilly’, Swords Rex came to victory on Friday night with his 28.27 clear win. Graham reflects on the magical night, amazing scenes and buzzing atmosphere at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.
Although the Hollands have reached the final on numerous occasion this was the first Con & Annie Kirby win for them. Graham thanks his family who put so much effort and dedication into the kennels and the care of every dog. Graham talks about the luck on the night that often secures the win as well as enjoying each occasion as they come rather than looking too far forward.
Graham also gives his thoughts on Part Blake, who came second on Friday nights Star Sports/TRC English Derby Trial Stake.
Have a listen to their chat now!
In this week's episode, Barry Drake speaks to four different people about the terrific success of Tom Pa O'Connor's recent fundraiser for cancer charities in Munster. Over €125,000 was raised for charities in Kerry, Cork & Limerick.
Barry speaks to Damian Matthews, Tom Pa O'Connor, Míchael McMahon and Padraig Bunyon.
Have a listen to the great chat and the stories behind the fundraiser and of course some more stories from great greyhound men.
This week Barry Drake talks to three well-known and respected people within the Greyhound industry.
First up is trainer Declan McDonagh. Declan trained the 2022 Shelbourne Open 600 winner, Fast Fit Paddy. Declan was thrilled to be involved with this fast tracker and was delighted with his victory in the speedy time of 31:96. Declan has a small set up in Clare where himself and his brother Terry train greyhounds, they currently have seven with them.
Next up Barry chats with the joint owner of Fast Fit Paddy, John Quinn. John recalls last Saturday night’s win as one of the best nights to date. John also speaks about his long-term love for greyhounds as he was just 13 years old when he got his very one! John goes on to talk about the plans of an English Derby.
Finally, Barry chats with Dolores Ruth. Dolores enjoyed a double win last Saturday night at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium. First with Mustang Joey and secondly with Maries Wedding. Two very successful and proud wins for Dolores. Dolores looks forward to another weekend of great racing at Shelbourne Park and undoubtedly, she’s hoping it will be yet another triumphant night for her!
Have a listen to the podcast now!
Barry brings us a bonus episode this week as he chats to Liam Murphy of Greyhound & PetWorld.
Greyhound & PetWorld are sponsoring the SuperSprint which is on now in Curraheen Park, just weeks after their sponsorship of the Juvenile Classic in Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.
Join them for a chat.
This week’s podcast takes us to Enniscorthy as Barry Drake talks to a young man currently making waves in the greyhound industry, Robbie O’Neill.
Robbie talks about his long-time love for greyhounds as he said the interest was always there, but he had to prove he was willing to put in the time and effort into this journey!
He received his first greyhound from his uncle Pat and from there the passion grew.
Robbie is currently working on building his own kennels and although this is a work in progress, he aims to cover all areas from breeding to training greyhounds with his aim to specialize in breeding and producing open class dogs.
They talk about the Michael Fortune Memorial Unraced Stake currently taking place at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track. Robbie’s own runner Roanna Scooby is thriving in the competition, and they are gearing up to tonight’s quarter final!
Robbie talks fondly of his local track in Enniscorthy and encourages people to come out support the track especially as the summer months and longer evenings approach.
Have a listen to their chat now!
Susie Sapphire added another classic title to her achievements when winning the BresBet Easter Cup in Shelbourne Park last weekend. So who else would Barry speak to this week but her trainer Owen McKenna and owner Peter Comerford.
Susie is really setting the greyhound world alight and she is a shining star in our sport and the pride of the McKenna and Comerford families. Have a listen to what they have to say about the star.
Barry Drake has a bumper podcast episode for us this week.
Firstly he speaks to trainer Pat Buckley. They chat about Pat's brilliant night in the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium last Friday with two track records and 5 winners! They also chat about plans for the future including Con & Annie Kirby and English Derby hopes.
The Barry heads to Waterford as he chats to Ian Magnier in Kilcohan Park as they look forward to the opening night of the Select Stakes this Saturday.
Have a listen!
This week Barry Drake previews the final of the 2022 Greyhound & Pet World Juvenile Classic. With €11,000 at stake for the winner, this is bound to be a competitive competition. Barry chats to the connections of the 6 promising superstars!
First up is Robert Gleeson, the trainer of Droopys Edison. After clocking a speedy time of 20:18 in the Semi-Final, this dog is going to set standards for all!
Next is Emma Buckley. The Buckley family are doubly represented in the final by both Glengar Scholar and Lenson On Ice.
In trap 3 is Ballymac Kurtis who is trained by Liam Dowling. Liam has high hopes for his fast-paced star.
Barry then chats to Patrick Guilfoyle, the trainer of Wi Can Dream. Pat says Wi Can Dream has the perfect combination of pace and temperament.
Finally, we hear from Mark O’Donovan who is the owner of Coolavanny Hoffa. Although trap 6 might be tough they are delighted to be in the final!
Have a listen to his preview now!
This week takes us to Waterford as Barry Drake chats to passionate greyhound supporter Stephanie Maguire. Stephanie has been involved with greyhound racing all her life, there was never a time in her life when greyhounds were not around!
Stephanie’s dad Jimmy is heavily involved in Kilcohan Park, having served as a director and then Chairman, she jokes that he is there more than at home. He started the Daring prefix, one which Stephanie proudly carries on and she gives us some insight of the up & coming Daring greyhounds to keep an eye on.
Stephanie focuses on the future as she looks forward to many more great nights at Kilcohan Park, including their upcoming awards ceremony in March. She finishes by sharing the dream of all greyhound people, the hope of a Derby winner!
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry Drake is joined by UK based Jonathan Hobbs, or Hobbsy as he is known to many greyhound racing fans from his many years on our TV screens.
As well as chatting about the importance of media coverage of our sport, he also recalls memories of being track-side and the great atmosphere you experience on race nights.
Jonathan touches on some standout memories in the industry including glorious victories with ‘Premier Fantasy’ and ‘The Late Late Show.’
Of course, the duo also speak about the BresBet Easter Cup which is ongoing at Shelbourne Park and they even share predictions for Saturday night’s 2nd Round action.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week's podcast takes us to Armagh as Barry Drake chats to Shea Campbell.
Shea has been a longtime supporter of Greyhound Racing. He chats about his early days spent at many Greyhound Stadia including the old Dundalk Greyhound Stadium.
He inherited his love for Greyhound Racing from his parents and he has now passed on that passion to his own family. Shea currently has eleven dogs at home one of which is Robbie Lad, who is their doting pet. Shea is also keeping a very close eye on Stefans Rocket who has now changed hands and is racing in the UK, but he is still very much one of his biggest supporters.
Shea is looking forward to contesting his 3rd Final of the year in Drumbo Park on Saturday night. He’s hoping Robbies Champ will be successful for him and his family.
Have a listen to their chat now!
This week's podcast takes us to Kerry as Barry Drake chats with trainer James O Regan.
James began his journey with greyhound racing about ten years ago. He speaks about his early days in the industry and how he would often seek advice from experienced people within the greyhound racing field. It has now become a family affair with his daughter Emma helping out in their kennels.
James also speaks about the importance of introducing youth to greyhound racing. James acknowledges the syndicates and all those who invest in greyhounds as he thanks them for making it possible!
Have a listen to their chat now!
In this week's podcast Barry Drake is joined by greyhound racing legend Dolores Ruth. Dolores has just recently returned to the greyhound training scene after renewing her public training license. She is currently busy revamping her kennels in efforts to create a top-class space for training. Dolores talks fondly about the many successes she has had over the years, including two Irish Derby titles. She speaks about the bright future ahead for Greyhound racing in Ireland. Dolores is eager and excited for the many challenges ahead, as her goal of winning the Derby again is clear in sight. Have a listen to their chat now!
This week Barry Drake is joined by a passionate greyhound supporter Padjoe Dorney.
Padjoe spoke fondly of his childhood memories shared at Thurles Greyhound Stadium. He reminisces about the many nights he spent there and the electric atmosphere of race nights.
He also chats about his father's involvement with greyhound racing. Padjoe is passionate about seeing people and families return to the stadiums and he strongly encourages everyone to come out and support Greyhound racing.
Have a listen to their chat now!
Francis Murray Jnr joins Barry Drake this week.
The Murray family are well-known in the sport and it all began with Francis’ grandfather, with greyhounds first coming into the family in 1927. His father followed suit, taking out a licence in 1977, and since then has won almost all of the big competitions in Greyhound Racing and is still going strong. Based outside Mullingar, the operation is very much a family business with all ages getting involved and getting great enjoyment from the dogs.
Francis Jnr chats to Barry about the family’s great successes, many memories of growing up in the sport and the great lifestyle that they have through the sport. They also chat about their current greyhounds and hopes for 2022.
Clare man Noel Hehir joins Barry Drake to chat all things greyhound racing this week.
Noel developed a love of the sport as a child. Since he began training himself he has been lucky to have some great greyhounds, including Coolavanny Chick who finished 3rd in the 2020 English Greyhound Derby.
They also chat about recent success and other hopefuls in the kennel. Have a listen!
For the final podcast of the year, Barry Drake is joined by Justin Muldoon.
Justin, his brother Pat and the family have been enjoying following some great greyhounds of late and they chat about them including their English Derby final runner-up and Russian Glory who has been making his mark in the last quarter of 2021.
Based in Co. Armagh, Justin shares memories of the sport growing up in Northern Ireland. Have a listen.
Thanks for tuning in throughout the year, check back in 2022 for more.
Barry is joined by Elaine Guiney in this week's episode.
Elaine is the daughter of Con Guiney, owner of Jacob Tashadelek and she chats to Barry fresh from a great victory in Curraheen Park on Tuesday night in The O' Learys Driving School Open 575 Final.
Jacob Tashadelek has been making his mark in some of the biggest events across the country this year. Elaine and all the family have been getting great enjoyment from Con's success this year and she chats about that and other great greyhound memories with Barry.
Have a listen, it's a great chat!
This week, Barry Drake is joined by Tom Pa O'Connor from Kerry.
Tom is well known among the greyhound community, a very popular trainer for many years. His son Patrick has since taken over training with the family's Saleen prefix making their mark over the years.
In recent days, Tom's name has been shared far and wide across social media as he has launched a great fundraiser for 3 cancer charities in Munster. Tom has organised the fundraiser as a way of thanking those who do such tremendous work with cancer patients, as he continues his own treatment for bladder cancer.
Of course, there's some great greyhound chat and memories to share to. Have a listen and of course if you can, you can donate to the 3 charities on https://bit.ly/3Edl25z
A bumper greyhound racing chat in this episode as Barry Drake is joined by two guests this week.
Trainer Karol Ramsbottom enjoyed great success at the Winter Racing Festival and he chats to Barry about the wins and some of his other greyhounds in training.
Barry's second guest is Willie Rigney, a man who is well known to the greyhound public and he recalls memories of the sport with Barry and gives us a hint of some new stars in the making. He also enjoyed Winter Racing Festival success with a win from All About Ted, trained by Peter Cronin.
Have a listen to their chat.
A man that needs no introduction, trainer Liam Dowling joins Barry Drake this week.
The Kerry man chats about his Matchbook Irish St. Leger win last weekend in Limerick Greyhound Stadium with Ballymac Merlin, his 2nd win in the Classic.
They look ahead to this weekend's Winter Racing Festival in Shelbourne Park which promises to be a fantastic weekend of racing.
There's plenty to talk about, have a listen now!
Barry Drake is joined this week by a man he calls "the Scooby man", Steve Noble.
He joins Barry from London where he first got involved in greyhounds as a teenager.
Steve is enjoying particular success on the track at the moment with his Scooby greyhounds with trainer Jennifer O'Donnell. Barry gets an update on Scooby Princess and of course they chat about Scooby Prince who will contest the final of the National Puppy Stake this weekend in Shelbourne Park.
Trainer Thomas Buggy joins Barry Drake to chat all things greyhound racing in this week's podcast.
Thomas' mother got her first greyhound at the age of 14 and since then greyhounds have been a huge part of family life. His mother trained over 500 winners & 2 classic winners before stepping back when Thomas took out his own trainers licence but it's still very much a family business.
Thomas reached the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby Final this year with Carrigeen North and he chats about that and other recent success and future hopes.
Have a listen.
Trainer Thomas O'Donovan joins Barry Drake on this week's podcast episode.
Born into a greyhound family, Thomas recalls some great highlights, including a memorable night in Shelbourne Park when He Said So won the Derby for his father.
Thomas worked in greyhound racing in Australia before returning with greyhounds for breeding here in Ireland. Since returning to training in Ireland he has enjoyed some great success including the 2020 Irish St. Leger with Epic Hero and just 2 weeks ago winning a Laurels with One Time Only.
Have a listen to their chat now.
Barry speaks to Michael Lonergan from Tipperary in this week's episode.
Michael is now retired but he has been involved in greyhounds all his life and worked as a Control Steward. Spending 29 years in the job, he operated between Clonmel and Youghal.
Since retiring, he's returned to greyhound ownership and currently is enthusiastically following some great greyhounds he bred.
He has memories of great dogs and great characters in the sport, have a listen.
This week Barry brings us a bumper episode to enjoy.
He is joined by Curraheen Park Racing Manager, Brian Collins, and Friends & Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing Chairman Jimmy Barry Murphy as they look forward to this Saturday Irish Laurels Final.
Barry also catches up with Deirdre Leahy after Droopys Gloss' victory in the SIS Juvenile Derby Final in Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium last weekend.
Kerry man Chris Houlihan joins Barry Drake this week to talk all things greyhound racing.
Chris has some great tales to tell from his introduction to greyhounds, working in the UK and establishing himself as a trainer when he came home.
He talks about his great Laurels victory with Cashen Legend at a time when he had just been diagnosed with Leukemia. He also went on to win another big classic, the Irish St. Leger, with Cashen Mafuma.
Greyhounds are very much a family business with the whole family playing a role and just last week he enjoyed another success in Thurles.
Have a listen.
Olivia Hogan from Nenagh and Anna Stapel from both join Barry on this week's episode.
Olivia grew up immersed in greyhounds (Five Alley prefix) and she chats to Barry about her experiences. During the pandemic, she helped out a family friend, bringing his greyhounds racing during restrictions and has enjoyed listening to his memories and learning from him.
Anna was introduced to greyhounds in 2018 when her family moved next door to Feichin Mullin. Born in Germany, she had no experience of greyhounds at all and is now the self-styled "puppy manager" in the kennels and is a regular in Youghal.
Thurles man Brendan O'Neill joins Barry Drake this week for a chat.
Brendan has been involved in greyhound racing since he was a child, developing his love of the sport working with his granduncle Paddy Sheehy.
Brendan recalls some great characters and racing stories from over the years. Brendan is an agent for Ray Patterson, witnessing some great successes over the years - he can reel off some impressive greyhounds, names that have left their mark on the sport and continue to do so.
They chat about the Derby, the Laurels in Cork and much more, have a listen.
Trainer Owen McKenna joins Barry in this week's podcast.
A man who needs no introduction - a must-listen, enjoy the chat!
Owen enjoyed his 2nd Derby success at the weekend when Susie Sapphire claimed a popular victory in the 2021 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby.
It's a double episode this week as two young trainers join Barry this week.
Dean Harpur recently took out his trainers licence. His family didn't have greyhounds but as a child he developed a love of greyhounds growing in Wexford. At the age of 21, he and his grandfather got two greyhounds, built kennels and runs and built it from there! Dean was also part of the syndicate behind Cash Ready, a finalist in the 2020 Irish St. Leger in Limerick.
Scott Phelan also chats to Barry, another man who developed a love for greyhounds as a child. He got his first dog as a teenager, working with his uncle to train him. They chat about his greyhounds, hopes for the future and rehoming those who've finished their racing careers.
Barry Drake speaks to Waterford man Dan Casey in this episode.
Dan shares some local greyhound memories with Barry and tells him about his own greyhounds in training.
Of course, Dan and his business, Caseys Caravan & Camping, are valued sponsors in Waterford. The Final of the Caseys Caravan & Camping 525 will take place in Kilcohan Park this Saturday. Barry and Dan chat about the competition and the Dave Collins Memorial Munster Oaks Final.
Barry Drake catches up with Gavin O'Mahoney in this week's episode. Gavin is a sponsor, an owner and a passionate greyhound racing supporter.
Gavin's real involvement in racing began when he met his wife Elaine in London and he joined her for a trip to the 2014 English Derby in Wimbledon to meet her family, the Dunphys of Droopys Stud.
Gavin came on board as a sponsor in Kilcohan Park last year with his company JAG Building Services, naming the event in the honour of a late friend, Dave Collins. The 2021 Dave Collins Memorial is underway in Waterford now. Gavin also sponsors in Kilkenny and he and Barry chat about both events.
Of course, they chat about his greyhounds including Storys Pewee, trained by Murt Leahy, who runs in Heat 3 of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate 2nd Round on Saturday night. Gavin's also a member of the Club of Champions Syndicate and he's looking forward to the day when they can all meet track-side to cheer on their greyhounds.
Barry Drake speaks to trainer Peter Cronin in this episode.
The well-known trainer takes Barry back to his early days in Tipperary growing up immersed in greyhound racing. Developing a love of greyhound racing from his father Michael, Peter has passed it on to the next generation to his own sons.
They look back on some of Peter's more memorable greyhounds and of course the chat turns to his hopefuls in this year's BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby.
Have a listen to their chat now.
This week, Barry is talking all things greyhound racing with Dermot Leahy in Thurles.
Dermot had a most impressive winner at Curraheen Park on Saturday night, Russmur Pat, winning his opening round heat of the Greyhound & Petworld A1 stake.
He operates a small training kennel while also working full-time and is a young trainer that’s going places, have a listen to their chat now.
A man that needs no introduction, Barry's guest this week is Liam Dowling, the "Ballymac" man.
The Kerryman gives an insight into his family history in greyhounds and his own kennels. Of course, a big part of their chat looks ahead to the 2021 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby. Liam shares his thoughts and gives Barry an update on their contenders.
Make a cuppa and have a listen to their chat!
Don't forget to tune in to all the Derby action this Friday and Saturday on Talking Dogs TV and join the chat on social media using #BoyleSportsIGD
Fresh from big race success with De Machine in the BoyleSports Champion Stakes, Barry catches up with Damien Matthews in this week's podcast.
The Matthews family have enjoyed many great years in greyhound racing and Damien shares some memories from over the years and plans for the future.
He also gives Barry an update on the wonderful Unlock Unlock.
This week, Barry is joined by Gavin John Byrne.
Gavin got involved in greyhound racing helping a neighbour walk his dogs as a child and has been hooked ever since. He has great memories of travelling to Shelbourne Park racing when he was younger.
Gavin's passed the love of the sport to the next generation with his daughter also "greyhound mad", helping out with the retired greyhound meet 'n' greet pre-COVID.
They have a great chat about dogs, Thurles, the love of the sport and much more. Have a listen.
Barry heads to Wexford this week to chat to Paul Ryan.
As Paul says he married into the Greyhound Racing game with his parents-in-law Jack and Carmel heavily involved. From racing with Jack, he took the plunge and bought his own greyhound and has been involved since.
He currently has about 14 greyhounds, a mix of young, racing and retired, which he feels is a manageable number for him now.
He gives Barry an insight into life in his kennels, have a listen.
This week Barry Drake is joined by Jamie Costine from Cloyne.
Jamie Costine recently took over his trainers licence and he speaks to Barry about how it all started for him.
Jamie has battled cancer and he feels the dogs have helped him through this difficult time. The east Cork man has plenty of great plans. Have a listen.
This week, Clare man Declan McDonagh joins Barry Drake to talk greyhound racing.
Declan shares how he got involved and speaks about his recent success in the world of greyhound racing. It's a big night for the kennel on Saturday night as Fast Fit Paddy runs in the semi-finals of the Shelbourne Champion 550.
Have a listen.
Paul Scally, well known with Cabra greyhounds, joins Barry on this week's podcast episode.
Paul has enjoyed some great success in greyhound racing over the years. They speak about the recent fundraiser for Thurles Greyhound Stadium along with the upcoming Centenary Agri Tipperary Cup 2021.
Have a listen.
This week's guest is David Ryan from the Buttsys-Buckos-Syndicate.
David speaks to Barry about the success of the syndicate and the great fun they are having with greyhounds.
Their three dogs are in magnificent form and they're dreaming of classic success.
Join them for the chat!
In this week's episode Barry chats to Paul Carpenter. Based in Reading in the UK, he has a huge interest in Irish Greyhound Racing.
Paul has some great memories and stories from over the years from both Ireland and the UK.
Have a listen to their chat now.
This week, Barry is joined by Keith Powell.
Keith grew up with dogs and horses but has only entered into the greyhound racing scene in the last 8 to 9 years.
It started with a syndicate and since then he's been going from strength to strength. 6 years ago he took out his public license and has had about 20 greyhounds in training since.
Have a listen to their chat now.
In this week's episode, Barry is joined by Denis Murphy.
Denis and his company were long-term sponsors of the Juvenile Classic, an event his family won in its early years. The Murphy family have been involved in gryehounds for many years and Denis shares some of his favourite memories with Barry.
This week's Barry is joined by Stephen Reidy. Stephen is well known to the racing fraternity as a part of the Ballymac Kennels team and also some brilliant fundraising work for the IRGT.
Stephen has a big family history in the sport with his grandfather a trainer with great success himself.
He shares stories from his time in racing including special memories with Ballymac Anton.
Have a listen.
BREAKING NEWS: Tony Winters joins Barry Drake to make a big announcement on behalf of the Friends & Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing as he confirms an extension of the sponsorship of the Irish Laurels.
Jimmy Barry Murphy also speaks to Barry about the announcement and his recent Hall of Fame award and Brian Collins shares his thoughts on behalf of all the team at Curraheen Park.
On this week’s podcast, Barry previews the final of the €7,500 to the winner Clona Blaze At Stud Open 525.
Racing Manager at Curraheen Park Brian Collins and sponsor Kevin O’Brien join Barry along with connections of the six finalists, Graham Holland, Ray Patterson, Paul Hennessy and Chris Houlihan. Another bumper episode.
Well-known greyhound trainer Owen McKenna is Barry's guest on this week's episode.
The McKenna family have enjoyed a lot of great success over the decades, there's plenty to talk about. Owen recalls special memories with his dad, Ger, including the 1981 English Derby win in White City. He also speaks about his own successes and career in greyhound racing.
A man with plenty of great greyhound racing stories, have a listen.
This week's episode is a bumper double episode as Barry Drakes speaks to two men who've enjoyed great success in recent weeks.
In Part 1, he's joined by John Nallen (Hotel Minella) speaking about his family's involvement with greyhounds and how they bought the hotel from the sale of a greyhound. He also speaks about his recent success in the world of horse racing.
In Part 2 - Philip Rhodes speaks about his recent success with Dustys Bandit who won the Greyhound & Petworld Supersprint at Curraheen Park. A famous victory for East Cork kennel.
On this week's podcast, Barry previews the feature at Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium on Saturday night, the €3,500 to the winner final of the Greyhound & Petworld Supersprint.
Barry chats with Curraheen Park Racing Manager Brian Collins and the connections of the six finalists Chris Houlihan, Andy Lynch, Daniel Nolan, Conor Crowley, Michael Donnelly and Philip Rhodes, along with Liam Murphy of the Greyhound & Petworld shop.
Barry Drake brings us a special bonus episode of the podcast to look ahead to a very big night in Waterford, the Select Stakes Final.
Barry chats with commentator Peter Fitzgerald and the connections of the six finalists Emma Buckley, Nicky Walsh, Robert Gleeson, Ray Patterson, Graham Holland and John Byrne.
The 2021 Select Stakes Final takes place in Kilcohan Park Greyhound Stadium on Tuesday 20th April. Racing is behind closed doors, so keep an eye on Talking Dogs and social media for updates.
Well known within greyhound circles, Pio Barry shares some wonderful greyhound racing stories with Barry in this podcast episode.
His Ballydoyle prefix has enjoyed some wonderful success, including the wonderful Ballydoyle Honey. He has great tales from both the greyhound and horse racing world.
It's a great listen.
Kevin O’Brien, well-known for his Clona prefix, is speaking about his life in greyhounds with Barry this week.
A passionate greyhound supporter, Kevin has enjoyed plenty of big race of success and shares some brilliant memories including of his Derby Finalist & Easter Cup winner, Clona Blaze.
Based in Clonakilty, Kevin is sponsoring a big event upcoming at Curraheen Park, the €17,500 Clona Blaze @ Stud Open 525 yard stake.
Barry Drake is joined by a host of guests this week to preview the Final of the Future Champion & Michael Fortune Memorial Unraced Stake at Enniscorthy.
Featuring interviews with Shea Campbell, Seamus Whelan, Paul Hennessy, Eamon Moore, Joe Devlin, Ian Fortune and Eilish McCann (Wexford GOBA).
Have a listen & best of luck to all the finalists.
Gearóid O'Brien from Dromana in West Waterford grew up with a huge interest in greyhounds, but his spina bifida was causing him problems and he was in and out of hospital.
He recently featured on RTE News with the story of how the Social Prescribing programme has helped him. Barry learns more about Gearóid's story.
Brian Collins (Racing Manager at Curraheen Park) speaks about the feature final on Saturday night, the final of the €10,500 SIS Cork Oaks. Brian also speaks about the upcoming Greyhound & Petworld Supersprint.
Conor McCormack is a young passionate greyhound supporter and he joins Barry on this week's podcast.
Conor, a regular in Shelbourne Park, talks about his passion and love for the sport.
They also speak about greyhounds making great pets and the wonderful care greyhounds get. Conor's dad Philip has hit the crossbar in two classic finals and they are always searching for the next big star. Plenty of talk about all things greyhounds - have a listen.
It was an incredible weekend for Pat Buckley and the Buckley team as they enjoyed double Classic success; Singalong Sally winning the Greyhound & Pet World Juvenile Classic in Tralee and Knocknaboul Syd claiming the Ladbrokes Easter Cup in Shelbourne Park.
Emma Buckley joined Barry Drake on CRY Radio to talk about their incredible weekend.
A jam-packed episode to preview the 2021 Greyhound & Pet World Juvenile Classic Final in the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.
Barry speaks with Declan Dowling, Liam Dowling, Murt Leahy, Emma Buckley, Owen McKenna and Nicky Holland. There's plenty to talk about ahead of the big race at Tralee on Friday night.
Jack O'Shea is a member of the Pillar-Syndicate and they enjoyed big race success at Clonmel last weekend with Jackslittlething winning the final of the €6,000 to the winner Rural Hawaii @ Stud Unraced Stake.
The Pillar Syndicate also reached last year's Irish Greyhound Derby final with Indesatchel. They have high hopes for the year ahead.
A young Dublin man, Jacks speaks about his passion for the sport. His father, Larry, also a member of the syndicate, is well known within greyhound circles and he has enjoyed plenty of classic success over the years.
Dylan Fitzsimons is a young passionate greyhound supporter and he and Barry enjoy a great chat on this week's podcast.
Dylan, a regular in Shelbourne Park, talks about his passion and love for the sport, his introduction to ownership and the benefits of getting involved in syndicates.
They also speak about greyhounds making great pets and the wonderful care greyhounds get. Other topics of discussion were: Betting greyhounds, the Greyhound & Petworld Juvenile Classic and the Ladbrokes Easter Cup.
A jammed packed podcast, well worth a listen!
Ahead of the start of the Greyhound & Petworld Juvenile Classic in Tralee this weekend, Barry chats to Declan Dowling about the competition ahead.
He's also joined by Shane Dowling and Pat Buckley who chat about their hopefuls in the competition and also their Ladbrokes Easter Cup contenders.
Cork trainer Kieran Lynch was back in the big time last Saturday night after Inforapenny won the Best Car Parks Gold Cup final at Shelbourne Park.
Kieran is Barry's guest on this week's podcast and they chat about the big win at the weekend and the success that Kieran has enjoyed in his already superb training career.
Barry continues his chats with the Public Trainers who enjoyed a great year in 2020, chatting to Paul Burke (Galway) and Pat Kiely (Cork).
He also has a bonus chat with Ian Fortune as they preview the Best Car Parks Gold Cup this weekend in Shelbourne Park.
This week, Barry is catching up with the leading Public Greyhound Trainers from 2020 in Enniscorthy, Mullingar, Thurles & Youghal.
He's chatting with David Flanagan(Thurles), Fechin Mullen (Youghal), Ollie Fitzpatrick (Mullingar), and Geoff Bateman (Enniscorthy).
If you missed part one of the leading trainers chat, go check it out now on https://bit.ly/TDOTEP25TRAINERSPT1
This week, Barry is catching up with the leading Public Greyhound Trainers from 2020 in Cork, Limerick, Newbridge & Tralee.
Barry chats with Kieran Lynch (Leading Public Trainer at Curraheen Park), Denis O'Malley (Joint leading Public Trainer at Limerick), Patrick O'Connor (Leading Public Trainer at Tralee), and Keith Powell (Leading Public Trainer at Newbridge).
Some really good chats along the way!
Murt Leahy enjoyed a great year in 2020, training a total of 94 winners. He's looking forward to the year ahead, with some really talented greyhounds in his kennel.
He speaks to Barry Drake on this week's podcast.
This week's podcast features Sean Mullins and Ollie Curtin of the Mullins-Curtin-Syndicate.
They have enjoyed some famous victories in recent weeks and are enjoying every minute of it. Both Sean and Ollie spoke to Barry of early involvement and plans for the future.
For the final podcast episode of 2020, Barry Drake speaks to Rásaíocht Con Éireann / Greyhound Racing Ireland CEO Gerard Dollard.
They discuss the year that has been in greyhound racing and what is coming on stream in 2021.
In this week's episode, Barry Drake chats to Curraheen Park Racing Manager, Brian Collins.
Brian chats about his family history in Greyhounds, his journey as a Racing Manager starting in Thurles and with many happy days since.
For our 20th episode, Barry Drake chats with a man local to him, JJ Fennelly (Burgess Prefix).
A long time supporter of our great sport, he has enjoyed plenty of big race success. He speaks about his early involvement and hopes for the future.
JJ is also an important member of the Youghal Track Supporters Club and he chats to Barry about their work.
It's an all Kerry affair this week.
Barry catches up with Brendan Maunsell to speak about the brilliant career of Redzer Ardfert.
The star tracker has been retired following victory in the Open 750 at the RCÉ Winter Racing Festival.
He also spoke with Declan Dowling of Tralee's Kingdom Greyhound Stadium about the Track Bookmakers Kingdom Derby which is currently underway.
Ballymac Beanie claimed the 2020 Sporting Press Irish Oaks in Shelbourne Park last month.
Barry catches up with trainer Declan Byrne to talk about his big win.
He also spoke with top jockey Pat Dobbs, part owner of Ballymac Beanie, from his Dubai base where he resides for the winter months. He spoke of his success in the saddle and his passion and love for greyhound racing.
Ahead of the 2020 Friends of Limerick Greyhound Stadium Irish St. Leger Final, Barry Drake brings us a special Leger Final bumper podcast.
Barry chats to each of the trainers, Austin Noonan from the Friends of Limerick Greyhound Stadium committee and Racing Manager Liam Kennedy.
Karol Ramsbottom joins Barry Drake on this week's podcast. Karol recalls his early days in greyhound racing, and he also spoke about recent success.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs.
Fresh from their English Derby victory last weekend with Deerjet Sydney, trainer Pat Buckley and his daughter Emma join Barry Drake on this week's podcast.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs.
Mickey Rooney of the Runninta-Syndicate speaking about a famous Laurels success with Runninta Seeya, winner of the Classic last Saturday night in Curraheen Park.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs.
Barry Drake brings us a Laurels Final special on this week's podcast. He's joined by Curraheen Park Racing Manager Brian Collins, owner/trainer of Blastoff Fire Philip Buckley, trainer of Runninta Seeya Johnny Linehan, trainer of Ballymac Anton Liam Dowling, trainer of Witches Ethiopia Liam Twomey, trainer of Droopys Hamish Johnny Linehan, trainer of Brodys Magic David Murray and GAA Legend and lifelong supporter of Greyhound Racing, Jimmy Barry Murphy.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs.
Paul Hennessy joins Barry Drake on this week's podcast. Paul recalls his early days in greyhound racing and the journey he has had so far. A great listen!
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs
John O'Regan is Barry's guest on this weeks Talking Dogs on Thursday podcast.
John is owner of Sevenheads Bay who won the Laurels back in 2009. On Saturday night, he is represented with Sevenheads Rock who contests the third quarter final of the 2020 Irish Laurels in Curaheen Park.
John shares decades of memories with Barry.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs
Michael Corr speaks to Barry Drake in our latest podcast episode. Michael chats about his history in greyhound and his little miracle, Meenagh Miracle and her performance in the recent Irish Greyhound Derby.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on grireland.ie/talkingdogs
Cork GAA legend Jimmy Barry Murphy is Barry's guest on this week's podcast. He is also a great greyhound racing man and he joins Barry ahead of the 1st Round of Cork's biggest event, the Irish Laurels.
Jimmy recalls his greyhound and sporting memories and looks forward to the 2020 Laurels and chats about the great work of sponsors, Friends and Supporters of Cork Greyhound Racing.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
Debbie O'Rourke speaks to Barry Drake in our latest podcast episode.
Debbie is a young assistant trainer to her grandfather Liam O'Rourke and is a regular face at racing in Dublin. Recently they've had some great success including a fantastic 5 out of 5 recently in Shelbourne Park.
Debbie looks forward to being at the 2020 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby Final in Shelbourne Park with their runners, including their greyhound Ravenswood Mango, running in the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
Trainer Robert Gleeson speaks to Barry Drake ahead of this weekend's semi-finals of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby.
Robert has two semi-finalists in the shape of Toolmaker Sydney and Kilara Icon. Slippery Robert gave Robert Derby success back in 2013.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest greyhound racing news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
Patrick Guilfoyle chats to Barry Drake in the latest episode of our greyhound racing podcast.
Speaking about growing up in the sport and how he grew his training career, Patrick recalls great memories for his family gathered through greyhound racing.
Of course, Patrick was a BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby winner in 2017 with Good News but has also enjoyed success in almost all of the Classic events in Ireland.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Irish Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
As Round 3 of the BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby approaches, Barry chats to Shane Dowling. Shane chats about the Dowling's wonderful success last weekend with four heat winners and they look ahead to this weekend's action. The Dowling's have 6 through to Round 3.
With the 2020 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby underway, Barry speaks to the 2018 winning owner, Eamon Cleary.
An All-Star winning hurler with Wexford, Eamon has also enjoyed some big days in the world of horse racing.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
Simon Taylor, owner of Newinn Taylor and Newinn Session, speaks about his recent success which included the Produce Stakes and talks about the upcoming Irish Greyhound Derby. He also spoke about his introduction to greyhound racing and how he was once gave a butcher a dog to train after arriving at his premises to buy meat while on holiday.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
Our second episode features Anthony Hayes, who chats about his greyhound Mind My Lads. All prizemoney won by the greyhound will be donated directly to the Cork ARC Cancer Support House. Barry chats to him about what he hopes as the dog embarks on his racing career for the charity.
Talking Dogs on Thursday is a new weekly Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. A new episode is released weekly. Don't forget you can catch all the latest news on igb.ie/talkingdogs.
Welcome to Talking Dogs on Thursday, a new weekly Greyhound Racing podcast with Barry Drake. Our first episode features Des Grace, owner of Boylesports Champion Stakes Winner, Pestana. Barry chats to him just days after Pestana won the €20,000 to the winner competition in Dublin's Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium