Happy Crambo

BURKE NICKS THRILLER

- MELISSA JONES

CRAMBO came out on top in a breathtaking battle of the ages with Paisley Park to claim Howden Long Walk Hurdle glory at Ascot.

The gallant Paisley Park was bidding to match the brilliant Baracouda's record of four wins in the Grade One contest over an extended three miles.

But the popular 11-year-old just had to give way to Crambo - five years his junior, who was providing trainer Fergal O'Brien with just his second elite-level success.

Dashel Drasher set off in his customary prominent position, but there was little more than a few lengths covering all 10 runners at the halfway stage.