Star springs 40/1 surprise

Star Image just edged the verdict to spring a 40/1 surprise in the mile-and-a-half handicap at Galway.

Tom Mullins charge had finished last on both previous outings this term but left that form well behind to run out a game winner.

Jake Coen produced his charge to challenge inside the final furlong and the Sea The Stars filly disputed with Pale Moonlight close home.

Star Image was just a nose head at the line to record her second career victory.

“She won as a two-year-old but only ran well once or twice last year before trailing off,” said Mullins.

“This is only her third run this year, I thought the last day at Limerick she'd run well but Niall (McCullagh) said the ground was too firm and she wouldn't let herself down.

“I was hoping that I hadn't lost my touch because I thought she'd run well today. She's down in the handicap and had a real top apprentice on her back today.

“She just needed a bit of luck in running and I fancied her but all my horses were giving last to no-one there for a long time.

“It's just been things not working out, like her not letting herself down the last day.

“I didn't want to go over a mile-and-a-half with her but it was the only race she could get into at Galway. I had to come here for the nice ground.

“Hopefully she can keep improving for the rest of the season but it's a winner in Galway and if she does that once a year it's job done.”