Recent Ulster Derby winning jockey Killian Hennessy was back in the winners' enclosure after the debut success of the Aidan O'Brien trained Henry Adams in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at Naas.

Rarely seen on the track these days, the Cork man has proven in the last couple of weeks that he is well able to take the opportunities when they come his way.

Smartly away from stall four, Hennessy tracked leader Mariner for much of the race, before moving up travelling easily to lead over a furlong out.

At that point, the colts experience began to tell as he showed definite signs of greenness when asked to go and win his race. Favourite Shihoku emerged from the chasing pack to throw down a strong late challenge but the line just came in time for the Ballydoyle colt.

Chris Armstrong rep. trainer, “It was a muddling race and he would appreciate a proper run seven from start to finish.

“Whether he goes for a conditions race next or up into Stakes company he’s one to look forward to. It’s grand to get him started and he’s one to look forward to.

“It’s nice to give Killian another winner as he’s a valuable part of the team and claims a valuable 7lb. Once he gets his opportunities he takes them with both hands.”

O’Brien won the same race with Auguste Rodin last year.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee