Degenerous and Roger Loughran stole a march on their nine rivals at the start of the SCA Group Handicap Hurdle at Down Royal today and took full advantage when making all for a surprise 20/1 win, for trainer Sarah Dawson.

Lining up for the start, Loughran appeared content to make the running and without much fuss, ended up gaining a big advantage as his rivals failed to follow his lead.

Degenerous was then clear and maintained that position throughout and while tiring when making a mistake at the final flight, stayed on stoutly to score a four lengths win over Topper Thornton

Trainer Dawson later revealed "she has never had any luck in-running but I knew she was as fit as a flea and I said to Roger 'don't leave any petrol'!

"She deserved it as she's so genuine and will be even better over fences."

The winner carries the colours of Dawson's husband Dr Joe Dawson.

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Michael Graham