Lucky Thirteen for Miley Persistence paid off for connections of Miley Byrne, who sprang a 14/1 surprise in the Keogh's Bar Longford Maiden Hurdle. This son of Warcraft, having his thirteenth start, showed the best reserves of stamina to defeat Grand Revival by one and a half lengths. Gambled on favourite, The Bay Lad (4s into 2s), could only manage fourth. Tom Doyle partnered the Caroline Hutchinson-trained winner, the Kilkenny jockey steering home his first winner since July 11th. Of course the successful handler also has strong family ties with the black and amber county. (EM)