Galant Ferns sprang a 66/1 shock in the opening mares beginners chase at Thurles this afternoon.

The race lost some of it's lustre, however, when 6/4 favourite Killultagh Queen was withdrawn on vets advice at the start of the three-mile event.

Brian O'Connell excelled on the eventual winner, Gallant Ferns, who was produced to lead before the final fence and stretched away on the run-in to record a seven-length victory over Back Me Up

The Liam Kenny-trained mare came into her chase debut having managed just one second-placing among some moderate hurdles form although she had looked a promising prospect when winning a bumper back in April 2008.

There was no fluke about today's victory as she stormed clear in great style and she looks to have a brighter future over the larger obstacles.

"She had some good runs in bumpers but lost her way over hurdles," said Gorey handler Kenny afterwards.

"The fences seemed to sweeten her up a bit. I've no real plans but she could go for another mares race. She likes heavy ground."

The race also proved a memorable one for recently deceased sire Bob Back, who was responsible for the first three home.