Rowdy Romeo came with a well-timed surge to land the Thurles Handicap Hurdle for Co. Down handler Caroline McCaldin.

There were three disputing going to the second last with JJ Slevin tucked in behind the trio on Rowdy Romeo. Linden Arden and Native Speaker were left fighting it out when Power Hour fell two from home.

That pair were joined by Rowdy Romeo over the last and the 10/1 shot kept on strongly in the closing stages to post a two-length win over long-time leader Native Speaker.

It was a deserved success for the Conduit gelding who had been placed on five starts previously.

The winning rider said afterwards:- "He had good form back along and finished second to a good horse Letsbeclearaboutit last year so ran well in a few nice races.

“Caroline has been good to me and I'm delighted to get the winner for her.

"Caroline's horses are absolutely flying and she had two point to point winners recently."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)