Moonlone Lane and Lorna Brooke© Photo Healy Racing
Moonlone Lane sprang a 25/1 shock when taking the inaugural running of the Today FM Ladies Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse under British rider Lorna Brooke.
Brooke sent her mount into the lead entering the back straight in the 2m5f contest and having been headed before the third last she regained the lead turning for home.
7/2 joint-favourite On The Shannon tried to stay on going to the last but was untidy at the final fence.
Paul Stafford 's charge picked up again on the run-in to record a convincing two-and-three-quarter length success.
The winner had been fifth on his last outing, over course and distance, a fortnight ago.
A delighted Brooke said afterwards:- "I'm surprised and shocked but very happy.
"I only found out yesterday that I was riding in the race and then we had a power cut last night and I arrived at the airport with no ticket. My flight was also delayed, so I thought that everything was going bad.
"The race went to plan and he got into such a rhythm jumping. He's not very big, and the wind hit us and we gave the rail a fair bump.
"I could see Katie (Walsh) but my horse still had plenty in the tank. I'm glad to be a part of the race, and to win it is even better."
Maxine O'Sullivan, who was unseated four out on Finea was taken to hospital for x-rays on a suspected broken collarbone.
(Quotes by Alan Magee)
