Western Leader from the Shark Hanlon stable opened up his account over hurdles after he took the opening Ryans Event Cleaners Maiden Hurdle at Leopardstown today.

Promising five pound claimer Conor O’Farrell made all aboard the son of Stowaway and the pair showed great battling qualities when holding off the fast finishing Acapulco by a short head.

Winning trainer Hanlon said afterwards: “He’s a lovely horse and the big step up in trip really helped.”

“He jumped a lot better today and Conor gave him a lovely ride. We’ve no immediate plans for him at the moment.”