Gainford continues winning run with 25/1 Limerick surprise Jordan Gainford maintained his record of riding a winner each day since Christmas when Joyau De Thaix caused a 25/1 surprise in the Infinity Lifts Handicap Hurdle at Limerick. The lightly-raced Paul Nolan-trained gelding was adding to a maiden hurdle win here two years ago and appreciated this three-mile stamina test. Kir made most of the running and still appeared the most likely winner after two out, but a mistake at the last gave his pursuers a renewed chance. Joyau De Thaix took full advantage and kept on gamely to lead in the closing stages for a length and a quarter success. Collaborative also came home well to take the runner-up spot with Kir weakening to finish a further head back in third. Gainford, who had partnered winners at Down Royal and Limerick over the previous two days, said: “They thought he was a very nice horse at the start and he had a few problems. It’s nice to come back and get his head in front today. “I thought we went a nice even gallop the whole way. I’d a lovely position and got a bit outpaced at the top of the hill. “I thought going to the last that the horse in front would have to do something silly, and he made a right mistake. “My lad was good over the last two and hit the line well.”
