The Tony Mullins trained Runninsonofagun made every yard of the running under Luke McAteer to win the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Optional Claiming Maiden at Navan.

After showing promise in three maiden starts, the Inns Of Court gelding was dropped into this grade for the first time at a claiming price of 20,000 euro.

Well away from stalls, McAteer led from the outset on the 9/4 second favourite. Mighty Day looked a serious threat when looming up travelling easily over a furlong out, as the leader came under pressure.

However, to his credit, the Mullins trained gelding found plenty when challenged, asserting on the stiff uphill climb to win by three-quarters-of-a-length.

Tony Mullins said: “A mile suited him and he looks to me like a tough and hardy handicapper.

“He could go for a mile nursery in Listowel.

“We bred him and have a full brother and sister coming along.”

There were no claims for any of the runners.