[5] Summerhill Gem did not last long going out in the qualifying round as did the 1987 English Greyhound Derby finalist Rikasso Tiller.

Notable performances in the qualifying round came from Blue Riband champion Pike Alert, Scottish Greyhound Derby runner up Killouragh Chris, Pall Mall Stakes champion Fearless Ace, Curryhills Gara, Hit The Lid and Bold Rabbit.

[5] During the first round Pike Alert went out and Killouragh Chris despite finishing third in the same heat dislocated a toe and withdrew.

The Wimbledon 460 metres track record holder Sam Bridge claimed the fastest heat win in 28.74.

Curryhills Gara and Stouke Whisper touched at the third bend allowing Hit the Lid to run out the winner.