There were emotional scenes following the win of the Eugene O'Sullivan trained A Decent Excuse in the Foley's Antiques Naas Maiden Hurdle at Naas today.

Following the win, an upset O'Sullivan said “the saddest thing is that the main man in the winning (Kilshannig Racing) syndicate, Tom O'Sullivan (no relation of the trainer's), died six weeks ago - his family are at home today watching it and I feel so sorry for them.”

The gelding had made all, under capable claimer Paddy Kennedy (recording his 25th career win), and stayed on strongly to put 33 lengths between himself and runner-up Our Only Option at the line. Odds-on favourite Moscow Chief folded tamely before the straight and finished sixth.

Regarding A Decent Excuse, O'Sullivan also added “he is a lovely horse and we'll go to Limerick for another hurdle over Christmas next. We'll see where we go from there but he'll be a lovely staying chaser in time.”

Further reporting by Gary Carson