Master McGrath was born in 1866 at Colligan Lodge, the home of James Galwey, a well-known trainer and owner of greyhounds.

The dog showed none of the outstanding qualities which were later to make him famous at his first trial; his performance was so bad that his trainer ordered him to be given away.

His success enabled Lord Lurgan to build a terrace of houses in Walthamstow from Master McGrath's winnings.

Eighteen sixty eight being the date and the year, Those Waterloo sportsmen and more did appear; For to gain the great prizes and bear them awa', Never counting on Ireland and Master McGrath.

On the twelfth of December, that day of renown, McGrath and his keeper they left Lurgan town; A gale in the Channel, it soon drove them o'er, On the thirteenth they landed on fair England's shore.

And when they arrived there in big London town, Those great English sportsmen all gathered round - And one of the gentlemen gave a "Ha!

Then Lord Lurgan stepped forward and said, "Gentlemen, If there's any among you has money to spend - For your grand english nobles I don't care a straw - Here's five thousand to one upon Master McGrath."

And Rose stood uncovered, the great English pride, Her master and keeper were close by her side; They have let her away and the crowd cried "Hurrah!"