Carlowsantana put in a terrific frontrunning display at Fairyhouse© Photo Healy Racing
Carlowsantana made every yard for Ian McCarthy to comprehensively take the Grade B novice handicap chase at Fairyhouse.
The 25/1 outsider belied his odds with a dominant display that saw him well clear at halfway in the two mile one furlong race and a delighted trainer Stephen Nolan said: “That’s unbelievable. New owners took him over (Santana Syndicate) and I always said we would give him one chance at a big race.
“He’s a good jumper and a good strong galloper. I said to Ian to jump out and make it and if nothing took him on to keep going.
“Ian gave him a great ride. Some people have underestimated this horse but he annihilated them. If the ground had been heavy he wouldn’t have run.
“He’ll go to Punchestown. We’ll see what mark he gets. He’ll probably hammer him, but it doesn’t matter after winning a big pot like that.” Pass The Hat the well-backed 3/1 favourite from 6/1 in the morning, stayed on for second beaten six and a half lengths. Klepht completed the placings at 7/1. Canaly (10/3) didn't run to form and was struggling in sixth when he fell two out.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
