Kap Vert produced one of the shocks of the season with a stunning 20/1 victory in the Scottish Grand National at Ayr – and there was a strong West Waterford connection at the heart of it.

Waterford jockey Sean Houlihan delivered a superb ride aboard the six-year-old, guiding the inexperienced chaser to a famous win in just his fifth start over fences.

Despite his lack of experience, Kap Vert travelled powerfully throughout the marathon contest, with Houlihan keeping him in a strong position before asking for his effort at the perfect time down the home straight.

Midlands National winner Isaac Des Obeaux looked a major threat turning for home but faded out of contention to finish fourth. Git Maker stayed on well to claim second, just a length and a half behind the winner, while the 4/1 favourite Kim Roque had to settle for third.

It’s a career-defining victory for Houlihan and a proud day for Dungarvan and the wider Waterford racing community.

The win also marks the biggest success to date for trainers Philip Hobbs and Johnson White since taking out their joint licence, with Kap Vert emerging as a staying chaser with a bright future.

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