Mr Sykes overcomes two-year absence to steal a march on rivals

THOSE punters who supported dual bumper winner, Rebel Fitz, in the Croom House Stud Maiden Hurdle at Listowel yesterday were left with a particularly sour taste in their respective mouths.

The contest was won by 25-1 shot Mr Sykes, who was having a first outing in over two years and partnered with real enterprise by John Cullen.

Mr Sykes led at the fourth and was allowed to grab a huge advantage heading out into the country for the final time.