Miley Shah clears on hurdle on his way to victory under Mikey Fogarty© Photo Healy Racing
Mikey Fogarty gave Miley Shah a well-judged ride as the Joe Kenny trained gelding sprang a 40/1 surprise in the Laurels Pub & Restaurant Hurdle. Third Opinion went clear of his rivals after the second flight with Miley Shah the only one to go in pursuit.
At three out Third Opinion was a sitting duck and Miley Shah came through to lead on the run to the next. Ted Veale moved into a remote second before the last and he kept on well on the run-in but the line came in time for the winner with a length and three parts separating the duo at the line.
The runner-up was returned the 5/6 favourite under Ruby Walsh for Tony Martin.
Joe Kenny said afterwards: "I'm delighted it worked out the way it did but I thought the ground would be too quick for him.
"He handled it well though and was fit and healthy coming here. We ran him over the banks at Punchestown to see how he'd get on but his legs went from under him at the fifth.
"He ran a smashing race here a few years ago and I was happy to come back with him. I've no major plan - he's ten and will tell me!"
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
