On course support for Tyrrell's Succes proved well founded as he ran out a game winner of the Daily Mirror Handicap Hurdle at Down Royal.

The Aaron Stronge-trained gelding was easy to back this morning but money came on the track and he started a 7/1 shot after opening 12/1.

Noel McParlan produced his mount travelling strongly to lead after the fourth last flight in the 2m6f event. Returntovendor rallied to join him going to the second last, with the pair coming together, and Tyrrell's Succes also had to survive a blunder there.

The eventual winner edged ahead before the final flight and kept on under pressure, despite running around a touch, to record a three-quarters of a length success. Bearly Legal stayed on on the run-in to nab the runner-up spot.

The stewards had a look at the finish but the result stood.

The winner had taken a bumper at Perth last year. He had stayed on to finish fifth without posing a danger at Fairyhouse on his most recent start last month.

Danny Fitzsimmons, assistant to Aaron Stronge, said: "The best horse did win but he doesn't do much in front. He jumped everything brilliantly and then when he asked him to jump two he put down on him when he's in front.

"We were expecting a good run the last day but it was heavy ground. We were always hopeful on better ground and we were praying the rain didn't come. He showed that he is better on better ground.

"He needs a flat, galloping track. He ran here at the November meeting and the third horse won the Imperial Cup. That's the type of maiden hurdle you are running in.

“Stepping up in trip will suit him. He'll get up to three miles no problem. He'll probably be out in a month or so. Maybe we'll go to Navan. The hill might keep him straight."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)