Grey mare Tick Along with Tommy Reilly in the plate© Photo Healy Racing
First-reserve Tick Along made the most of her opportunity in the extended 2m5f handicap hurdle at Downpatrick.
The nine-year-old mare hadn't been out for approximately a year, but fitness certainly wasn't lacking.
The 25/1 shot travelled well into the lead two out and soon disputed with A Dublin Job but that rival departed at the last after being headed.
Tick Along was kept up to her work by Tommy Reilly to come in by two and three-quarter lengths from Hockworthy Flyer (16/1). Tango Theatre 6/4 favourite, couldn't land a blow on the downhill run to the last and had to settle for third.
Trainer Tom McCourt said: "She has always been a nice enough mare for this type of race, but just plagued with niggly little problems. They were setting her back all the time.
"It is great for Peter McCaffrey who has been with me years and nothing ever went right for him - this is his first winner. A lovely family and it is great to see him finally getting the win.
"She's in a chase at Limerick next week. If she is none the worse, she will go there. She jumps very well.
"Tommy has a good record around here."
