Fahey is top dog in Munster National

The Big Dog (16/1) gained a last-gasp win in Limerick's featured €90,000 Ladbrokes Munster National today, registering a big-race success for trainer Peter Fahey, jockey Keith Donoghue and owners the Kelly family.

The 16 runners were closely grouped with a mile to race, with The Big Dog neatly positioned behind the leaders. Ain't That A Shame led by a length and a half at the final fence but erred, landing awkwardly, leaving The Big Dog to hunt him down in the final stride for a head win.

Last season was disappointing for The Big Dog and today delighted Fahey said “we brought him in earlier to aim him at these good handicaps, as last year we were protecting his mark for the Welsh National but were unlucky.

“He made the mistake, the reins went over his head and was pulled up. He then went to Punchestown and got a bit of an injury.”

He added “Keith (Donoghue) got on very well with him, he jumped and travelled for him and the whole way through the race, I was just hoping I had him fit enough to stay at it. The one thing about him is he does battle well and he was fit enough and stayed going. It is great to get a big pot.

“He will tip away and will aim for the Troytown and other staying chases and if he ended up being an Aintree horse I'd be delighted. I'm delighted for the Kellys who are a big family and are great supporters of racing - they'll enjoy it.

“The yard are in great form and everyone says how good their staff is but I think I have the best staff in racing.”