Story springs shock as Sam flops

Along Long Story sprang a 28/1 shock in the maiden hunters chase at Thurles as 2/11 shot Good Bye Sam finished only third in the three-miler.

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding went to post a hotpot in the race and led jumping the third last as Along Long Story made a mistake.

The market leader came under pressure turning for home, however, as Along Long Story regaining the lead as O Mio Babbino also challenged.

Johnny Hurley got a good leap from Along Long Story at the final fence as the Sean Aherne-trained gelding, a maiden in point-to-points, ran on well to post a three-and-a-half length victory. Michael's Pick stayed on to claim the runner-up spot.

"He had plenty of nice work done at home and ran in a couple of point to points but is ground-dependent. He got his ground today, skipped away and jumped a miller,” said Aherne.

"I ran him in this because he is handicapped over hurdles but weren't any suitable races coming up. I thought this fitted in grand.

"I don't know what the plan is but I could mix it away between chases and hurdles with him. Once the ground is reasonable, we'll keep going."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)