Paidi's Passion improved one placing on a recent 150/1 runner-up effort when winning Ballinrobe's Paddy Smyth Memorial (Mares) Maiden Hurdle today, for trainer David Christie and jockey Sam Ewing.

The daughter of Ocovango was pulled up in two point-to-points before filling second place at Roscommon on August 2, with third-placed Benny The Duke providing a timely form boost by winning today's opening race.

Jockey Ewing was hard at work on Paidi's Passion for much of the final half mile chasing leader Queshi Bridge but eventually edged ahead in the final strides for a half length win.

Ewing, who steered the Peter Fahey trained Peregrine Run to a 19th career win at Worcester five days ago, commented “I was always happy enough where I was even though I needed to get a bit of a run going to the second-last.

"It was a step up in trip for her again today and she showed that she can stay.

"I was well covered up amongst horses there and she jumped and travelled away well, so I'd say she'll have no problems when she goes into handicap company.”

Quotes from Mark Nunan