Keith Donoghue and Hillsdale (nearest) beat Ricky Bobby© Photo Healy Racing
Hillsdale showed tenacity to battle gamely and land the spoils for Philip Dempsey in the first division of the 80-102 handicap hurdle at Naas.
Keith Donoghue bounced out in front on the 11/2 shot and he was joined by the smooth travelling Ricky Bobby jumping the second last.
The Westerner gelding found plenty when asked at the last and knuckled down to record a two-length win over that rival.
“It wasn't the plan to make it. The last day he looked home and hosed, he's a quirky fella,” said Dempsey.
“He's very difficult, he's not for young lads to ride out or anything. Keith did a great job with him. He ran away the last day but I'd say the ground was a lot heavier in Fairyhouse.
“I'm delighted with the way he battled there, it's great.
“We'll try him again and he'll go chasing next year, he's a big horse.
“The owner (Brian Pierce) isn't here, he's a good supporter of ours.”
