Gentleman Jeff came good in the opening Kilbeggan Maiden Hurdle and winning jockey Robbie McNamara is hopeful the victory is the start of better things to come.

The Dermot Weld-trained gelding hit the front at the third last and had his nearest pursuer, Betabob struggling before the second last.

A slight mistake at the final flight interrupted the momentum of the 9/10 favourite but he always had too much in hand for his rival and stuck on well for a length-and-a-half success.

Havin been turned over at odds-on on his previous start at Galway McNamara was pleased to see his mount get his head in front:-

"He did it well although he was a bit leery in front. It could be the best thing for him as he was sick of finishing second.

"He's a classy enough horse and is better than he has shown on the track. If we can get him to enjoy it hopefully he can go on to better things."