There was a major shock in the Irish Racing Calendar 2018 Race at Limerick as 50/1 shot Hit The Silk stayed on stoutly to win by three lengths.

The well-bacled Focus On Heaven assumed the lead approaching the furlong pole and looked set to kick on.

However, Chris Hayes was winding up his challenge on Hit The Silk on the outside and the pair flew past Focus On Heaven inside the final furlong.

Hit The Silk strode away to leave punters scratching their heads at the 50/1 SP.

Runner-up Focus On Heaven was returned at 7/2 from 5/1. She was three parts of a length clear of Groundfrost (11/1).

Trainer Pat Murphy, who was leading up the horse, said: "He ran well in a Claiming maiden at Bellewstown on his first run (when second) and ran green and jumped the road.

"I've always thought a lot of him but I was worried about the ground today. I'll look for a big handicap with him next."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes