Torps makes winning handicap debut under Costello Despite taking a walk in the market out to 7/1, morning favourite Torps came out on top in the BOYLE Sports Home Of The Early Payout Ladies Handicap Hurdle at Limerick. Trained by Eric McNamara for Richard G Walsh, the Mahler gelding pulled his way to the front before halfway but kept responding in the home straight to see off Whateys Quest by a length and a half. Winning rider Emily Costello explained "He had run well in his last few maiden hurdles over two miles and today's 2m4f was a big help, as he stays galloping. "I'm riding out a day a week in Eric's and he mentioned before entries that he was going to find me something to ride in this, and this is my first winner for him on my third ride. "Eric always has them ready for this meeting at Christmas and he felt stepping up in trip would suit. The horse was going well at home and Eric was hopeful first time in a handicap." Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
