The second split of the (80-95) handicap hurdle saw Say It So (6/1) came from well off the pace to score for Eric and Conor McNamara. 

The Raven's Pass gelding had plenty of horses in front of him turning for home but was kidded into contention and finished strongly to collar market leader The Striker Dylan close home for a half-length success.

McNamara senir said: "I thought it was an exceptional ride by Conor as he is a very difficult horse. He has become very slow in coming out of starting stalls and even starting his race today, he just doesn't want to know about it for the first mile.

"It was perseverance, without being too hard on him, that has paid off and he stays really well. I thought the extra quarter of a mile would suit but he has become so roguey at the start of his races.

"He flies home every day though and having run well here in the past, we came back as it suits him; it is a matter of picking the right tracks for him. Going to Wexford in two days time was also a thought of ours but with the parade ring being where it is, it would be the wrong track.

"The 10-member Limerick-based (Hurling Mad) syndicate is headed by Eoin Kirby and they are great enthusiasts.

They are fantastic owners and a great bunch of people. This is well deserved as we had threatened to give up on the horse a few times."

Quotes from Tom Weekes