Twice runner-up in juvenile contests last year, the 4/7 favourite Charlie Luciano comfortably went one better in the second split of the maiden hurdle.

Market rival Starman departed at the first after which the son of Bobby's Kitten tracked the leaders. He travelled well to head Arnacouer at the last and sauntered clear to beat Up And Out by six lengths with Arnacouer back in third.

Denis O'Regan was on board for his old ally, owner/trainer Noel Meade.

Meade said: "He wants that goodish ground and Denis said it’s still not really good enough for him. He’s threatened to win a few times and he’ll go on through the summer.

“Hopefully we’ll win a Flat race with him as well. He stays two miles on the Flat and will stay further over hurdles. He’ll be a fun dual purpose horse.”

Quotes from Alan Magee