Persistence pays off with Shantelle

Shantelle sprang a 28/1 shock when running out a convincing winner of the FBD Handicap Hurdle at Ballinrobe this evening.

The Dick Donohoe-trained mare was held up in the early stages by Katie O'Farrell before taking closer order from the second last.

She hit the front turning for home and galloped on strongly on the run-in to record a six length victory.

The winner was making her 19th career outing tonight and her previous best had been a third-placed effort at Thurles in March.

"It feels like it was worth it now (the wait to win a race). It's been a long journey with her overall," said Donohoe.

"She was third in Thurles and she was brought down in Cork so she's been knocking on the door.

"Katie was right. She said to step her up in trip and that she'd be better.

"John and Alison Kennedy are the owners and I've been friends with John since our school days in Carlow so I'm really delighted for them. They were brave to keep going with her and it's great to see them rewarded."

(Quotes by Eamonn Murphy)