Leopardstown winner defies 999-1 in running to form part of Jordan Gainford double - as Jack Kennedy makes return from injury

Birmingham Alabama defied the maximum price of 999-1 in running on the exchanges to land the 3m handicap hurdle for Eamon Delany and Jordan Gainford, who went on to complete a double on Golden Joy.

Having looked a lost cause coming to the second-last, Birmingham Alabama got his second wind up the straight and stayed on strongly to get the better of The Miracle Man by a head. 

Half an hour later Gainford was back in the winner's enclosure courtesy of Golden Joy, who made it second time lucky over fences at odds of 9-2 for Gordon Elliott. 

Kennedy makes return

Jack Kennedy was out of luck on his return from a three-month absence, as odds-on favourite Qualimita could not live with Barnahash Primrose in the 2m4f mares' maiden hurdle and Arabian Diamond was only third behind the impressive Koktail Divin in the opener.

Jack Kennedy: made his return from injury aboard Arabian DiamondCredit: Patrick McCann

Koktail Divin chased home Kaid D'Authie on his Irish debut over Christmas before blotting his copybook behind Kawaboomga in a hot maiden hurdle next time, but he confirmed the promise of that initial effort with a stylish six-length success over Champagne Kid. 

The five-year-old holds an entry in the Turners Novices' Hurdle next week, but trainer Henry de Bromhead will wait for Aintree instead.

First success for Phillips

It was a Monday to remember for Hannah Phillips, who celebrated her first winner under rules when 20-1 outsider Maid On The Moon won the 2m4f mares' handicap hurdle. 

Maid In The Moon: a first winner for Hannah PhillipsCredit: Patrick McCann

Trained by Liz Lalor, Maid On The Moon was left clear at the last when Goodie Girl departed having looked the most likely winner and went on to score by 14 lengths.

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