Run With The Wind springs 33/1 surprise

Run With The Wind sprang a 33/1 surprise in the FBD Insurance Handicap over a mile and six, for his trainer Michael Hourigan with Sam James aboard.

The 5yo son of Sadler's Wells had one win to his name before today, that coming in a point-to-point at Rathcannon in September of last year.

He ran in three maiden hurdles in January and February of this year before taking a break until his next run at Killarney just last month, where he finished well behind Binocular in a handicap on the level over today's trip.

Teejaybee attempted to make all under Ronan Whelan but weakened entering the straight as Mutiska (11/2) took over. That filly looked set for victory as she went a few lengths clear but Run With The Wind came through with a strong run up the inside to just get up by a nose.

The 5/2 favourite Dorset Square for Willie Mullins and Pat Smullen had every chance up the straight but couldn't get to the leaders and finished four lengths back in third.

Winning rider Sam James said afterwards: "He done it well and quickened when I needed him too. He travelled well throughout and loved the ground. I wasn't expecting him to win and was just giving him a bit of education.

Winning trainer Michael Hourigan said afterwards: "He is lucky to be alive as he had a major operation about four months ago for colic. It was life or death.

"His owner (John O'Hagan) had only bought him and then I had to ask him for €10,000 if he wanted to save him and go ahead with the operation. He said go ahead and I'm delighted for him.

"We got him to go hurdling with and we didn’t think he would win today. Sam gave him a great ride and just gave him a few slaps to seal the deal close home.

"He will go for a two mile maiden hurdle at Ballinrobe on Monday next."

The win was a welcome one for Hourigan who recorded his last winner on the 21st of July when Hans Crescent scored over hurdles at Limerick.

After the race Conor Hoban reported to the Stewards that his mount El Romo hung left throughout.

Donal Murphy