Hasselnott and Donagh O'Connor pictured on their way to victory© Photo Healy Racing
Hasselnott scored on his debut for Johnny Levins and owner David Spratt, taking the Thomastown Handicap under Donagh O'Connor.
Previously trained by Austin Leahy, the son of Hellvelyn was claimed for E12,000 when fourth at Dundalk in April.
Having opened on-course at 14/1 this evening, he came in for plenty of market support, eventually going off an 8/1 chance.
Settled in mid-division on the outer, he was ridden to challenge from the two furlong pole, and got to the front in the final 150 yards, keeping on well to score by a length and a half. Mountain Fox who veered right and impeded Nivo a furlong out, finished second at 9/1 (from 12s) under Dylan Hogan for Frank Oakes, while Mystery Gal (7/1) was another length and a quarter away in third for Colm O'Donoghue and Paul Deegan.
The favourite Seaforth (12s this morning, but from 9/2 out to 11/2 on-course), was a disappointing ninth for Kevin Manning and Johnny Feane.
"We've loved him since the first day he set foot in the yard," said Levins.
"He's a big gentle giant and very genuine. He's never let us down in his canters and his work was pretty good.
"I'm delighted and delighted for the owner who is starting to put a lot of faith in me. I'm delighted to be able to repay him.
"It was a typical Donagh O'Connor ride and he was very good on him. He changed his plan with the draw, took his time and got a bit of cover. He kept him up to his work and he done it well in the end.
"We've no plans going forward but we like the horse.
"I claimed him for E12,000 and was a bit worried because I thought it might have been enough at the time but he looks cheap now."
STEWARDS REPORT
The Stewards enquired into possible interference in the closing stages involving Mountain Fox, ridden by D.E. Hogan, placed second, Nivvo ridden by P.J. Smullen, placed fifth and Mystery Gal, ridden by C. O'Donoghue, placed third. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that any interference was accidental in nature and made no alteration to the Judge's placings and took no further action.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
