Local trainer Paddy Hurley bridged a gap of over five years since his last winner when Perfect Man landed the Killinan Handicap Hurdle at Thurles.

Hurley is based close to the track at Borrisleigh and last tasted success under rules with Ambush Angel at the Tramore Summer Festival meeting in 2011.

Leila’s Island (25/1) made a bold bid from the front in this 2m6f event, and the top-weight was only headed approaching the final flight by the 22/1 winner.

Damien Skehan ’s mount made a slight mistake at the last but it didn’t make any difference as he kept on well to score by three and a quarter lengths. Wee Small Hours was a further length and a half away in third, with 5/2 favourite Itsallhappening just keeping on at one pace in fourth.

Hurley said, "We were disappointed with him at Naas but Stephen Gray (jockey) said he needed a trip. I didn't think he'd stay the 2m6f on that ground though, as he's only a handy horse.

"I train only five miles from here in Borrisoleigh and I'm delighted. We'll aim for something similar next."

(TW & AM)