Knockbrack Rambler makes breakthrough over bigger obstacles Knockbrack Rambler sprang a 12/1 surprise in the six-runner John B. Keane Beginners Steeplechase on Listowel's card. Phillip Enright had his mount in charge swinging in, but Whispering Willow was asked for his effort in second approaching the penultimate fence. Knockbrack Rambler availed of the far rail to increase his lead before the last and a lovely jump there afforded Enright the opportunity to have a peek over his shoulder. What he saw was Tropical Image trying to make a race of it in second as Whispering Willow gave best in third. Enright had another peek as his mount craved the line in the closing stages, but the pair did enough to hold a staying-on Tropical Image (4/1) by half a length. Brendan Walsh said: "Vincent O'Connor and his wife Mary are from nearby in Abbeyfeale, so that's why this winner is so popular. Plenty of people seem to have backed him too. "He had been running in the heavy ground and we just changed things up today, and jumped out in front. He locked-on for Phillip (Enright) and no better man up on his back. "We'll enjoy today and he might get the grass now, as the ground will be getting hard now." This was his first win over fences to go with two over flights. Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
