Chalky White and Keith Donoghue (grey) beat Johnny Little Legs (right)© Photo Healy Racing
The James Dullea-trained Chalky White just prevailed in a thrilling finish to land a gamble in the Killinan Handicap Hurdle at Thurles this afternoon.
Having traded as big as 40/1 this morning the Getaway gelding went to post an 8/1 shot on his handicap debut.
Keith Donoghue produced his mount to lead going to the last in the two-mile contest but he was strongly pressed by Johnny Little Legs after that rival got a flyer at the final flight.
There was nothing between the pair on the run-in and it Chalky White who just prevailed at the line for a short-head victory.
The winner had been well held in three maiden hurdles but was joint top-weight in today's race off a mark of 93.
Dullea said:- "It was great and it was the first time Keith rode for me. Ken Whelan (his agent) put him in for me.
"He is improving with every run, we know the family well as he is related to Tikkanen Express who we had.
"We were hopeful of a big run today but it was his first handicap which was our only worry. I felt he was improving with age and with runs. He is still immature and was idling when he hit the front.
"We'll go for something similar and the syndicate deserved a bit of luck, they are in the yard a long time and thankfully this fellow has worked out for them. One of the lads is from Kilkenny and the rest are from west Cork."
(Quotes by Tom Weekes)
