Countess springs shock in opener The John Hassett-trained Countess Guiccioli sprang a big shock in the opener at Listowel this afternoon when taking the Old Castle Median Auction Maiden at 40/1. The well-backed Gifted Lady (12/1 into 5/1) looked booked for victory when sweeping into the lead turning for home in the seven-furlong contest. She was chased down inside the final furlong by Countess Guiccioli and Rory Cleary, however, as that pair got up close home to land the spoils. The winner had only beaten one home at Galway on her previous outing and was also well held when fifth of eight on her debut at Tipperary. "She got wound up when she ran at Tipperary and I thought she mightn't handle the ground but she did,” said Hassett. "She could go for a nursery next." Itsalonglongroad was sent to post 15/8 favourite but faded turning in after making the running and was eased to finish with one behind. Simafar blew the start before staying on in the closing stages to take fourth. (Quotes by Thomas Weekes)
