1955 Irish Greyhound Derby

Spanish Battleship was a national icon by the time he lined for an attempt to win a third title. He suffered a surprise first round defeat when he was caught before the line by Crostys Bell but he still qualified for the next round by virtue of finishing second. Trainer Tom Lynch had other entries in the competition and two dead heated in the first round, they were Imperial Toast and Dancing Jester. Makra Bibs who had defeated Spanish Battleship in the Tostal Cup earlier in the year was the fastest heat winner in 29.68.^[3] Due to there being only 36 greyhounds in the event this year there was a rest before the semi-finals got underway and Lynch gave Spanish Battleship a trial.^[4] In the semi-finals Spanish Battleship returned to winning form by beating Mile Bush Champion by three lengths but Makra Bibs failed to make the final. A very fast time of 29.53 from Crostys Bell was good enough to take the second semi-final from Sailaway Sailor and Dancing Jester completed the round after he beat Claremont John in the third heat.^[4]

Harold's Cross stadium was overwhelmed by crowds attempting to see Spanish Battleship and they backed him into favourite at 5-4 with Crostys Bell drifting in the market at 7-4. Spanish Battleship was first away from the traps again and stretched to a three length victory from Crostys Bell to cement his place into the record books. ^[4]

• 1955 UK & Ireland Greyhound Racing Year