Bitter sweet victory for lame Long House

The Templemore Handicap Hurdle at Thurles produced a thrilling finish with Long House Island emerging on top after a battle royal on the run-in.

Trainer/rider Denis Hogan produced the 2/1 favourite to challenge on the outer at the second last and he gave chase to Popboru going to the final flight.

The pair were locked together on the run-in with Long House Island just having his head in front at the post for a short-head verdict.

The Turtle Island gelding has also gained a narrow victory at the course last week for Hogan and was defying a 6lb penalty for that win.

"It worked out but only just and I got carried wide at the second last. To be fair he battled but the down side is he pulled up lame,” said Hogan.

"It's bitter sweet but he has a history of leg trouble so unfortunately I'm not shocked.

"He had been on an upward curve and that would have left him bang on for Christmas.”

He added:- "My horses are all running well and long may it last. I've a great team of staff and owners and that helps."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)