Gains Of War and Nathan Crosse (left) win from Folly Beach, Alex The Great and Hammersmith© Photo Healy Racing
Luke Comer's Gains Of War stuck his head out in the closing stages to spring a 66/1 shock in the two-mile handicap at Dundalk.
There were five almost in a line passing the furlong pole as front-runner Kashi was joined.
It was the lightly-raced five-year-old Gains Of War who stayed on best to the line to record a half-length success over 2/1 favourite Folly Beach
The winner had finished mid-division over course and distance in late November and was making his sixth career outing.
Winning rider Nathan Crosse said: "I did (have plenty under me when it turned into a battle). He doesn't overly kill himself and I thought he did well there today.
"I got him up on the front end and he keeps galloping. He was good and game to the line.
"He had a little bit of a wind issue, but I think they got that sorted.
"I think he has a future as a handicapper - as you can see he is a big, big raw horse and is still learning on the job. There is a little bit more to come from him."
On his own start to the year, he added: "I am absolutely delighted. Great support from the Comer team and a great start overall."
(Quotes by Michael Graham)
