The Willie McCreery-trained Brother Rabbit sprang a 25/1 shock when dealing best with conditions in the Freshford Handicap at Gowran Park. Hurricane Sky was the gamble of the race (6/1 in morning into 2/1f) and Fran Berry was keen to lead on the gelding, niggling him along to maintain his position.

He gave way in the straight, however, and early leader Dayrina took it up again.

She was tackled by Crouching Harry and Brother Rabbit and it was the later who got to the front over a furlong out.

Wayne Lordan kept his mount going inside the final furlong to record a two-and-a-half length success over Dayrina.

The winner had shown only glimpses of ability previously including when stepped up in trip for his handicap debut at Fairyhouse last month.

"He's by a five-furlong horse out of a five-furlong mare so I never thought he'd be able to get this trip," said McCreery.

"He's a bit leery and saves a bit for himself but Wayne says he loves that ground."

The winner is named after a character from the 1991 film The Commitments.

(On course reporting by Alan Magee)