Mint Boy relished dipping his toes into handicap company for the first time as he delivered over three miles in the enveloping mist at Fairyhouse.

The 7/2 shot, who had finished runner-up in a rated novice hurdle at Thurles last month, was well in contention approaching two out.

The front-runner, It Could Be You was absolutely swamped by horses there and relinquished the lead.

Keith Donoghue availed of the inner route and his mount travelled well to lead before the final flight.

He crashed through that obstacle but had enough in hand to score by a length and three-parts from Castle Field Boy (14/1). Prince Palace (5/1) completed the placings in third.

Gavin Cromwell said: “He maybe needed the line a bit there, but three miles suits him - he stays well.

“We'll see what the handicapper does and maybe look for something similar.

“It was a good run the last time and it's nice to win here.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson