Jockey Barry Cash gained a deserved first success since May 2009 when steering Ionisphere to win the opening Solerina's Restaurant Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse today.

Cash, best known for his association with Brave Inca and Limestone Lad during his chasing career, had been very much on the 'cold list' of riders in recent times but bounced back on the son of Vettori who, despite jumping to the left, made most to defeat In Great Form by seven lengths.

Afterwards winning trainer Willie McCreery stated “I though Ionisphere hadn't much of a chance on today's ground as he won a point to point on fastish ground. He is still immature, and while he is no superstar, should provide plenty of fun for us during the summer.”