The bookmakers at Navan got some respite in the two-and-a-half mile handicap hurdle as Duty Dance just prevailed for a 20/1 shock.

The contest produced a thrilling finish with the eventual winner and Oscar Sam flashing past the post locked together.

The mare, trained and ridden by Danny Howard, led away from the third last but was collared on the run-in only to battle back and get her head in front where it mattered.

She had been well held on her last start over 2m6f at Punchestown but had previously been a winner over two miles in Thurles.

"The other horse had me 50 yards out but she's tough and battled back well,€" reported Howard afterwards.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)