Veteran Whatuthink (7/2) put in an impressive hurdling display on his way to a comprehensive victory in the two mile hurdle at Down Royal.

Trainer Oliver McKiernan was pleased with the ten-year-old who was partnered by Tom Doyle on his raid north. He said: “I’m delighted with him. He had a nice run on the flat, a nice bit of work [at Limerick].

“The conditions of the race suited him tonight. He travelled well and Tom said he picked up well when they came at him. He loved the ground and jumped well.”

The 100/30 co-favourites Alpine Eagle and His Excellency came in second and third.

Greenbelt Star, Now This Is It, Perfect Smile and Slew Charm were non-runners due to the softening ground conditions. Clonsilla Fath and Fosters Cross both fell three from home.

Michael Graham