Ceanndana makes the breakthrough under Donoghue

Ceanndana was never far from the pace in the North Down Marquees Handicap Hurdle and put his stamp on the race after the last to gain a first victory.

The Leading Light gelding, sent off 4/1, only needed to be pushed out by Keith Donoghue to score by four and three-quarter lengths from Nuttorridge

Enthusiastic owners the Hows Your Father Syndicate were on hand to welcome back their winner who is trained by Ross O'Sullivan.

O'Sullivan said: "They are a great bunch of lads and to be honest with you, they have been waiting a while.

"The horse is good in this grade and he has been knocking on the door, he deserved to get one.

"It was great that it happened today and Keith gave him a great ride. He handled the ground really well, wants good ground. He's in his bracket.

"A couple of times he has been found kind of wanting, just got lonely in front one day and just little small reasons for getting beaten.

"He's no star, but 0-95 is his grade.

"Horses are flying, thank God. Whatever suits will go to Galway and we will be there, hopefully."

Quotes from Michael Graham