Kilbrin Rocco and Shane Fitzgerald © Photo Healy Racing
The long journey up from Co Cork reaped dividends for Kilbrin Rocco in the 80-95 handicap hurdle over an extended 2m2f in Downpatrick.
The 40/1 outsider, in the first-time tongue-strap, tracked the leaders and made his move to lead at the last.
He kept on well up the hill for Shane Fitzgerald to score by two and a-half lengths from 6/4 favourite Benjis Benefit Flashthelights (9/1) was another five lengths away in third.
Mick Winters said: "I'd say he maybe struggled on the ground.
"He did have a good run in Thurles and we were happy with him there. He was disappointing in Limerick, he was like a plough horse as he kept going but there was no extra gear.
"We thought the change of ground would give him a chance today. I looked at the race and I couldn't see it being an outstanding race. We love it here, it is fantastic - even the craic in the hotel over the road.
"It takes six hours to come up and €300 in diesel."
