[4] The defending champion Mile Bush Pride topped the ante-post betting and started as the most likely greyhound to emulate Mick the Miller's achievement of two Derby wins.

[5] The first round saw many favourites eliminated; 1958 champion Pigalle Wonder was the first to go out followed by Armed Escort, Wood Lane Stakes winner Long Story, Kilmoney Daffodil, Welcome Home and Varra Black Nose.

Mile Bush Pride tight on the rails was making a move but was forced to check behind Clonalvy Romance effectively ending the dream of a second Derby win.

[5] Duleek Dandy owned by Vicki Dash and trained by husband Bill had won the Trafalgar Cup in 1959 but following injuries had been forced to run a trial stake by Major Percy Brown to gain entry to the Derby.

Luckily a short head win had resulted in Duleek Dandy claiming one of only twelve places available to greyhounds not selected by Brown.