Lounaos to go hurdling after November Handicap success

EOIN GRIFFIN’S Lounaos held off the determined challenge of Al Eile to claim the Leopardstown November Premier Handicap yesterday in the hands of Pat Smullen.

Settled in mid-division behind a strong pace set by the Willie Supple-ridden Warrens Castle, Smullen made his bid for home on the turn into the straight and looked to have the race sewn up when the 8-1 chance shot five lengths clear.

However, Seamus Heffernan conjured up a late rally out of 15-8 favourite Al Eile, who won the race two years ago. But, after being caught flat-footed on the back straight, he had too much ground to make up and went down by three lengths.