Masterstonemason gritty in Limerick

There was in-running betting carnage at the conclusion of the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle in Limerick when Masterstonemason got up under Charlie O'Dwyer.

Strong-travelling Rock On Seamie led narrowly racing to the last which he reached for. On the run-in, he went three quarters of a length up in the closing stages on Crimson Chief with Gotthenod just behind in third, however, fourth-running Masterstonemason stormed home on the inner to flash home by a neck at 25/1 for trainer Flan Costello.

Gotthenod got second at 15/2 by a nose from Rock On Seamie (17/2).

Flan Costello jnr said: "This is fantastic and was five years coming (since horse's last success)!

"I had him tuned up for today and everything was going to plan at home and he was beating everything. He has a turn of foot, that's what you need and always showed it at home.

"He had problems the last few years with his back but we got that sorted and this is great.

"It is amazing for the old man - he loves this sport and and this is his thing. We are riding out 14, it is a small family operation and we have a few nice horses at home at the moment."

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes