Donnie makes it three from three for O'Sullivan at Galway

Donnie Devito gave Ross O'Sullivan his third winner of the week at Galway, from just three runners, when claiming the Guinness Novice Hurdle under Tom Harney.

The 11/1 shot was to the fore throughout in the two-and-a-half mile contest and jumped on at the second last flight.

He was joined turning for home by Femme Magnifique but a better jump at the last gave him the advantage.

Tommy Ward's gelding stayed on strongly in the closing stages to hold the late challenge of 5/2 favourite Ninth Titan by three-parts-of-a-length.

Ward, from Mountmellick, Co Laois, said "the gentleman I bought the horse from, Eddie Power, told me no horse of his could stay with him on the gallop at home.

"Thanks to Ross and his staff and I've had an unbelievable year and had a horse finish second at 100/1 in Cheltenham. Even walking in today, there was a penny on the ground and I said to the lads 'pick up a penny and you'll have luck all day long'!

"We won this race in 2010 and had a great night and we'll have a great night again tonight."

O'Sullivan added:- "The horses are on fire and when we started off training, Tommy came to us with a horse and has been with us since. You won't find a better owner and when your back is against the wall, this is the number one to look after you.

"We're pinching ourselves and are in shock at how well the horses are running. It doesn't last forever but we'll keep enjoying it while it is rolling. There are loads of lads similar to me that just need the chance.

"I'm also delighted for Tom Harney to get his chance as it keeps the whole team together and there is a great atmosphere and vibe in the yard at the moment."

Harney told RTE:- “It's class, Ross's horses are just in such good form.

“The owner Tommy Ward is so loyal to keep me on him, I was second at Cheltenham on another horse of his and a Galway festival winner is just unbelievable.

“I quite confident everywhere. Jumping the second last I seen Danny looming up on my outside and he had plenty of horse. He just reached for the last a little bit and I winged it.

“I knew that all this lad wanted was that big hill, all he does is gallop all day. He's a tough little horse, he's a bit of a quirky little divil but he has a big heart.”

(Additional reporting by Tom Weekes)