Top 3 greyhounds of all time with links to Ireland

While Ireland has a long and storied history in horse racing, the Irish contribution to the other type of racing cannot be overestimated. We look at the top three greyhounds of all time with links to Ireland.

Ireland’s long and storied history in horse racing is well documented. Some of the best runners, riders and trainers ever to grace the Sport of Kings have come from Ireland.

Arkle, of course, stands among Ireland’s top horse racing exports, as do the infamous Shergar and Sea the Stars. Then there are iconic jockeys and trainers such as Ruby Walsh, Willie Mullins, and AP McCoy.

The list of notable figures from Ireland is almost endless, but what about the other type of racing? Greyhound racing remains a popular sport across Ireland, and arguably, some of the greatest greyhounds seen in the sport have clear links to the country.

So, let’s have a look at the best greyhounds of all time with links to Ireland.

The best greyhounds ever – Ireland’s contribution to the sport

With races happening across the globe, there’s clearly stiff competition when it comes to greyhound greats. But, as we’ll explain, Ireland more than holds its own when it comes to producing world-class dog racing talent.

Look through the latest greyhound betting odds, and you’ll see names such as Fly Comforts tipped at 4/1 for a race at Waterford. You’ll also see Irish greyhounds racing in England, Australia, and all across the world.

To see what we mean, here are three contenders for the best greyhounds to ever race.

1. Mick the Miller – a short but successful career

Regarded as possibly the best greyhound to ever grace a track, Mick the Miller was born in Ireland. However, he would soon cross the Irish Sea and dominate all the major races in England during the 1930s.

Although his career lasted just three years, Mick the Miller’s record includes 19 consecutive wins, picking up two successive Greyhound Derby victories in the process.

2. Scurlogue Champ – huge on the international stage

Born in County Wexford, Scurlogue Champ was another Irish racing export who made it big on the international stage during the 1980s. Two victories in Ireland set Scurlogue Champ on a course for England, where he hit his stride. Scurlogue Champ’s biggest strength was his finishing.

Able to come from behind, this Irish greyhound ended his career with 51 wins from 63 races, including the Cesarewitch and the BBC Television Trophy.

3. Ballyregan Bob – one of the best greyhounds of all time with links to Ireland

Named after a town in Ireland, Ballyregan Bob broke records for fun throughout the 1980s. He was trained by George Curtis in England and went on a world-record-setting run of 32 races unbeaten between 1985 and 1986.

Wrapped up within this run were victories in three major races: the Olympic (Brighton), the Test (Walthamstow), and the Essex Vase (Romford).

From 48 starts, Ballyregan Bob won 42 times. Add to this the fact he broke track records, and it’s fair to say Ballyregan Bob is one of the best greyhounds in history.

Punching above its weight – a sporting history Ireland can be proud of

Ireland’s greyhounds might be surpassed by the achievements of Irish horses, but their results can’t be overlooked. Three of the best greyhounds in history have been linked to Ireland, and that’s something to shout about.

Indeed, as a nation of sporting talent, Ireland has once again shown that it can punch way above its weight and produce world-class talent in any discipline.