Well-backed Gran Torino sealed victory for Noel Meade in the two-and-a-half-mile maiden hurdle at Down Royal with Jason McKeown in the saddle.

The six-year-old gelding was returned at 9/2 having been supported in from 11/2 on course.

Owner Eamonn McElroy who lives in Dublin but is from Downpatrick was delighted to welcome his charge back. He said: “He ran very well at Fairyhouse. He had been off before with an irregular heart beat, the same problem that I have!”

“Noel said to me he thought he would run well.” The Shepherd was half-a-length back in second at 4/1 with Saville Row third a further 21 lengths away. 11/4 favourite Cadogan could only manage fifth of the 11 runners.

This was jockey Jason McKeown's 59th winner. He needs one more to ride out his three-pound claim.

The stewards interviewed Jason McKeown concerning his use of the whip on the winner. They were of the opinion that he had used his whip with excessive frequency and suspended him for five days.

Michael Graham