A rousing finish between the three leaders in the Flat jockeys' championship saw Johnny Murtagh force Zanara home just in front in the 12-furlong maiden at Clonmel yesterday.

Murtagh, whose appeal against the two-day suspension which threatens to derail his title challenge will be heard today, required every ounce of strength to get the filly home by a neck from Michael Kinane's mount Leopard Spot.

Ballerine (Pat Smullen) was just a short-head behind in third after a battle which thrilled the crowd, the trio pulling 10 lengths clear of their rivals.

Murtagh thus reduced Smullen's lead in the table to two and had added cause for celebration with the news that he had secured his first ride in the Melbourne Cup next week on German challenger Caitano.

Permit-holder Frank Oakes, father of Curragh trainer Irene, saddled his first winner for over 13 years when Lucky Me sprang a 25 to 1 shock in the second division of the 0-50 handicap.

"I gave up training to work at Woodpark Stud and this is only a hobby for me now," said the delighted trainer, who has just two in his care. "This horse came to me from England and I thought he'd nearly win today as although he finished last at Gowran, he ran away with my daughter Wendy there."