Smurfer springs a surprise for Shark

Usuel Smurfer sprang a 20/1 surprise in the Bill Cullen Premier Cars Handicap Chase, scoring on his handicap debut over fences, with Danny Mullins in the saddle for John 'Shark' Hanlon.

A 10/1 chance overnight, the six-year-old French-bred gelding was friendless in the market, and he went off a 20/1 chance.

Settled towards the rear by Mullins, he made steady progress after the fourth last, and he moved into fifth as they entered the straight.

On the run between the last two fences, the Barry Connell owned victor travelled best, and he hit the front before the last, going on to score in comfortable fashion by six lengths. More Madness who was sent off the 9/2 joint-favourite, had to settle for second under Kevin Sexton for Terence O’Brien, while Raajih (12/1) was a further eleven lengths back in third under Conor O’Farrell for Gordon Elliott. Mr Goodenough (25/1) completed the placings a further length and three parts back in fourth under Ben Dalton for John Robinson, while Solstice Knight (the other joint-favourite) finished fifth.

John ‘Shark’ Hanlon said afterwards: “The good ground made a big difference to him. He needs a trip and good ground.

“Last year the ground was against him and he will go to Killarney next.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson