The Aidan O'Brien trained and J.P. McManus owned Mentor sprang a 16/1 surprise in the Mallow Hospital Maiden Hurdle at Cork today, winning for jockey Mark Walsh.

McManus' retained rider Barry Geraghty had, seemingly, sided with 5/4 favourite Roconga over Mentor but the 'jolly' failed to fire, finishing fourth. Mentor raced prominently throughout and in the end proved three and a half lengths too strong for Catalunian Fields.

Neither O'Brien or McManus' racing manager Frank Berry were present for the win.

By Tom Weekes