The saying the old dog for the hard road came to mind as the eleven-year-old Rakamasi sprung a 16/1 surprise in the Maynooth Handicap Chase under Adrian Heskin at Naas.

Equipped with a tongue-tie and cheek-pieces, the Rakaposhi King gelding, twice a winner previously in his career, made his light-weight count as he stayed on well to beat off Wicklow Lad

Niall Moran trains Rakamasi in County Sligo for the Red Gate Syndicate.

The Stewards enquired from Mr Michael McElhone, representing Mr Niall Moran trainer of the winner Rakamasi (GB) concerning the improved performance of his charge today compared with the previous run at Down Royal on 30th December, when the horse finished last of 8fn, 10rns to Tiernan’s Terror (GB).

Mr McElhone informed the Stewards that the trainer mistakenly declared cheek pieces for the Down Royal race and they did not have the required effect. The horse ran well with the aid of blinkers in the past and they were of great benefit today. Having considered the evidence the Stewards accepted the explanation offered and took no further action.