Smokey springs shock in opener

Smokey Joe Joe sprang a 25/1 shock in the opener at Limerick when recording a game success in the INH Stallion Owners Novice Hurdle.

Kieran Purcell 's charge has looked a nice prospect earlier in the season when winning a bumper and maiden hurdle but a poor run at Fairyhouse on his last appearance saw him go off at a fancy price in a hot looking contest.

Tom Doyle kicked for home before the straight on the son of Snurge and he stuck on determinedly down the home stretch to hold the late challenges of Sheer Genius and Aughaloor

The last named was sent off a well-supported 1/2 favourite but could only plug on one-paced in the closing stages.

"I'm stunned by that. I wasn't expecting it," said Purcell afterwards.

"He's a good sound horse and he will be even better on better ground. I've no plans at the moment, we'll see how he is after this.

"He'll make a lovely chaser next year."

The winner is owned by the Big Five Syndicate and Purcell said of the group:-

"They are from everywhere and have been with me a few years. It's lovely to have a horse for a syndicate nowadays."