Andrew McNamara has built up a good association with Mrs Mac Veale and the nine-year-old mare appreciated being reunited with the rider to record a 16/1 surprise in the Ballagh Mares Handicap Hurdle at Thurles.

The Robert Murphy-trained mare has now recorded five career wins, with McNamara on board for three on those successes.

The pair hit the front just before the final flight and, with Cloudy Rock spoiling her chance by diving out to the right at the final two flights, was driven out to score by a length and a half.

Cloudy Rock just held on for second place, with Triplets Joy just a head away in third.

Murphy was absent but owner Paddy Corkery from Cappoquin, Co. Waterford said, “She's a lovely mare and will go to Clonmel next Thursday for a Mares Grade 3 Chase."

(TW & AM)