Ballysassian springs 20/1 shock on jumping debut

CARRIGTWOHILL, Co Cork trainer, Terence O’Brien, produced a real shock when 20-1 shot Ballysassian made a winning debut over flights in the first division of the Ballynonty Maiden Hurdle at Thurles yesterday.

Partnered with lots of patience by Kevin Coleman, Ballysassian came from well off the pace to ease to the front over two out and comfortably beat Some Song.

“That’s more than a surprise”, exclaimed O’Brien. “I knew he had ability, but the horse just fell apart on me.”