Bitter sweet victory for lame Long House The Templemore Handicap Hurdle at Thurles produced a thrilling finish with Long House Island emerging on top after a battle royal on the run-in. Trainer/rider Denis Hogan produced the 2/1 favourite to challenge on the outer at the second last and he gave chase to Popboru going to the final flight. The pair were locked together on the run-in with Long House Island just having his head in front at the post for a short-head verdict. The Turtle Island gelding has also gained a narrow victory at the course last week for Hogan and was defying a 6lb penalty for that win. "It worked out but only just and I got carried wide at the second last. To be fair he battled but the down side is he pulled up lame,” said Hogan. "It's bitter sweet but he has a history of leg trouble so unfortunately I'm not shocked. "He had been on an upward curve and that would have left him bang on for Christmas.” He added:- "My horses are all running well and long may it last. I've a great team of staff and owners and that helps." (Quotes by Thomas Weekes)
