HAYLEY O'CONNOR

Weblog: Irish Derby view from the sponsor's PR

Ticking every box makes this the world's greatest

Why do we like the sports that we do?

What is it that has made the crowds come into Shelbourne Park Saturday evening? Maybe they want to back a winner? Maybe they just want to see the dogs? Perhaps they're simply keeping up a tradition, or simply want to have a few jars.

Whatever their reason the atmosphere is special and the buzz inthe stands unreal

I'm up in the suite and the dog I tip is the one I've liked all along, Razldazl George.

As the final drew closer I began questioning my selection of Gorgeous George. Am I being sentimental? No room for that in the betting. Will he get squeezed for room? All the rage is Rockchase Bullet, who comes to the final with impeccable form, a blend of early pace and stamina. Is my admiration for Dolores clouding my judgement?

No, Itake the wallet out, pull out the cash (a bunch of fivers) and put my money down. Gorgeous George all the way. He is destined to dazzle!

Rockchase Bullet proved unlucky, Bugatti showed real pace and Dream Walker almost held on, but with George in the end there was no disputing the winner.

He's figured in the betting all the way and our market rang true.

I'm delighted: in my mind the best dog in the race won and in fairness to his trainer her belief in the dog has been simply unshakeable since the competition began – some might say since he was born! 

And as this year’s Ladbrokes.com Derby draws to a close I ponder on my initial question.

The answer is whatever the many motivation the crowd had in coming here final night, I'm certain every box was ticked

The wagers, the craic, the excitement, the fun, the laughs, this evening had it all and this is why this it is the greatest greyhound race in the world. 

Adieu to all and as a conclusion, what I will say is if you enjoy racing, get out and go. This wonderful sport needs to be supported by us all.