Sequoia gets lucky at last

Giant Sequoia survived a last flight blunder to give Davy Russell a quick double in the Blue And Gold Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel.

John Supple 's charge hit the front before the last in the two-and-a-half mile contest and looked set to motor clear.

The well backed 5/2 favourite (from 9/2 in the morning) was lucky to stay on his feet at the final flight, however, as he went straight through the obstacle.

He regained his composure in an instant to gallop on strongly in the closing stages and record a three-length victory over Custodian

"He's a good horse on the Flat but his wind catches him out over hurdles and he needs that fast ground," said Supple. "He'll go to Listowel next."

Russell had also taken the preceding conditions hurdle on Royal Choice

Gary Carson