Lone Star opened his account over hurdles at the third attempt when taking the Devils Bit 3YO Maiden Hurdle in convincing fashion at Thurles.

The Aidan O’Brien-trained gelding is obviously learning with experience, and his jumping steadily improved here to justify 6/4 favouritism.

Robert Power had the son of Sea The Stars in front throughout and, with two fine jumps in the straight, he drew clear approaching the last to beat Brog Deas Nua by nine lengths. Pershing rather spoiled his chance by pulling very hard early on, eventually finishing another two and a half lengths adrift in third.

Power said, “He’s had two nice runs over hurdles and I knew if he improved again that he’d be hard to beat.

“It was his first time in front and he was having a good look around but when I wanted him over the last two he was good and quick. He’s a good tough horse and he’ll take plenty of races.”