Irish Derby Irish Derby The Irish Derby (Irish: Dearbaí na hÉireann) is a Group 1 flat horse race in Ireland open to three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies. It is run at the Curragh over a distance of 1 mile and 4 furlongs (2,414 metres), and it is scheduled to take place each year in late June or early July. It is Ireland's equivalent of the Epsom Derby, and it is currently held three weeks after the English race. The earliest version of the Irish Derby was an event called the O'Darby Stakes. This was established in 1817, but it was discontinued after
1987 Irish Greyhound Derby recorded his first win when it mattered by winning the fina). He held off a spirited challenge by kennelmate Balalika and then at the line a late burst by 1986 Irish Greyhound Derby finalist Carters Lad to win by a short head. Leading owner Eddie Costello had won his first Irish Derby but fate dealt a huge blow because he was at his London home mourning the death of his wife Grace 24 hours earlier. 1987 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1987 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during August and September with the final being held at Shelbourne Park in Dublin