We should have guessed that the genius of Paul Carberry would be the perfect accompaniment to the quirkiness of Giantofaman Those that made the assumption were rewarded at odds of 7/1 as Dessie Hughes landed the Grade 2 Boylesports Michael Purcell Memorial Novice Hurdle at Thurles for the third year in succession.

The victorious Stowaway gelding came here with only one previous win to his name, that maiden hurdle success also achieved at Thurles.

He set out to make all here, but when joined on either side up the back straight one might have imagined he'd fold.

Not a bit of it though and like his former 'Shark' Hanlon-trained stablemates, Western Leader in 2010 and Hidden Cyclone in 2011, Giantofaman went on to capture this prestigious prize convincingly.

He stretched clear from before the last and crossed the line a comfortable eight lengths in front of of Gallant Tipp

"He jumped great for Paul. He's improved.

"He goes well in front, though you could probably ride him any way now.

"There are plenty of novice races for him at Fairyhouse and Punchestown," commented Hughes on the Mrs Tony Durkan owned winner. (AM & EM)