Gordon Elliot enjoyed a 1-2 finish in today's Lexus Chase at Leopardstown, but it was 17-year-old Jack Kennedy who stole he show with a tremendous performance to guide 11-1 shot Outlander to victory.
Approaching the final hurdle, Bryan Cooper's Valseur Lido was out in front with Outlander and Don Poli in pursuit.
The leaders staying power faltered, opening the gap for Kennedy to exploit. He cleared the final fence and powered home for Elliot, who toasted the jockey after the race.
"Don Poli was brilliant, David was brilliant, Outlander was good and Jack was great," Elliott told Sporting Life. "I feel a bit sorry for Bryan, who had to make the decision, but he'll be back.
"We've been out hunting with Don Poli and took the headgear off to try and sweeten him up today and it looked it worked, then Jack was riding Outlander to be placed and coming to the last I started to get excited.
"I thought Outlander's last run was his career-best and, sure, he improved again today, didn't he?"
He added: "I suppose the obvious race is to come back here for the Irish Gold Cup (in February).
"I'm delighted with Don Poli, and I'd say the Grand National is the plan with him."
Ruby Walsh produced a late push on board favourite Djakadam, but couldn't push the seven-year-old past Elliot's pair.
#Outlander gives 17-year-old @jackkennedy15 his 100th winner & his first Grade 1 in the @Lexusireland Chase @LeopardstownRC @GoRacing
— Barbara White (@barbaramwhite) December 28, 2016
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