Magical Mag sparkles in €10,000 Lifford Oaks final

A big crowd packed into Lifford Stadium on Saturday night for the final of the €10,000 BoyleSports Lifford Oaks.

Magical Mag who stole the show with another stunning performance to take the win.

Trained by Patrick Guilfoyle, the Irish Derby finalist strengthened her claim for 2025 Bitch of the Year honours with a brilliant front-running display.

Already the winner of the Kilcolgan Castle Connacht Derby at Galway earlier this season, Magical Mag added another major title to her growing list.

Sent off the 7/4 favourite, she rocketed from trap two, clocking a sizzling 2.58 sectional to take charge early. Kennelmate Daleroad Mya gave chase, while Westway Rossa and Hackney Tango were poised behind.

Trouble struck when Daleroad Mya drifted wide passing the sprint boxes, costing Westway Rossa vital ground and handing Michael Taggart’s Hackney Tango a clear run into second. The Dundalk record holder closed fast, but Guilfoyle’s star wasn’t for catching.

Finding extra on the Lifford hill, Magical Mag held on by half a length in 28.69 seconds, with Daleroad Mya a length and a half back in third. It was a thrilling finish to a high-class competition that again showcased Lifford’s growing reputation as one of Ireland’s premier venues.

After the race, Lifford Stadium Racing Manager Spencer Saberton praised all involved and thanked supporters and sponsors for their backing.

“It’s no secret that it's been a battle to get to this point,” he said. 

“We cannot stress enough how grateful we are for the fantastic support we have received and continue to receive from our sponsors at Northwest Greyhound Supplies & NWGOBA. 

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“It's fair to say the Oaks was an overwhelming success- full of thrills and spills, shocks and close finishes resulting in an incredible final with the field covered by 5 & 3/4 lengths

“As Racing Manager that was my first stake of that size and quality, hopefully not the last. The feedback from media providers & people in the press has been fantastic and the atmosphere through the roof.”

Saberton added: “Lifford is back on the map and that is a direct result of the support.”