Lord Talbot and Rob Whearty © Photo Healy Racing
The Tom McCourt trained Lord Talbot caused a 33/1 upset when staying on strongly under Robert Whearty to win Division l of the Now Racing Every Wednesday At Dundalk Handicap.
Prominent in the early stages, the gelding pulled his say to the front after five furlongs. Soon clear of his rivals, it looked unlikely that the three-year-old could sustain the strong gallop, as a whole host of horses closed up entering the straight.
Race favourite Warazam looked a serious threat with less than two furlongs to run, as she travelled strongly under Nicola Burns.
However, Lord Talbot, who drifted left towards the far rail, found plenty for pressure inside the last furlong-and-a-half, staying on in resolute fashion to prevail by two-and-a-quarter lengths.
Tom McCourt said: "He did everything wrong and still did it!
"With the first-time visor, he was a bit free. He didn't give Robert the best of rides, he said he hung with him down the back.
"He was able to get a breather into him and he found. In fairness, he galloped well to the line.
"Very babyish still, I'd say. A lovely, scopey horse.
"First time up here as well, so he obviously handles this well."
Additional reporting by Michael Graham.
