Mars Harper reigns in Down Royal

Mars Harper opened his account over flights in the Armatas Fire and Security Ltd Maiden Hurdle over an extended two miles at Down Royal.

The 7/1 shot made headway to get on terms at the second last and took over at the final flight.

Denise Foster 's five-year-old gelding kept on well to see off a staying-on Cullaghs Star (25/1) by half a length. Digby (25/1) was another length and three parts away in third.

Jockey Luke Dempsey said: ""He did it nicely, he had a good luck when he got to the front but he's won well. He got a nice run through and he's done it nicely.

"In fairness he does (have a bit of talent), I was only keeping him up to it and I still had plenty of horse. From the back of the last he wasn't doing too much at the front, but I'd say if the other horse had come to me I would have gone again."

Mars Harper was previously successful in a bumper at Ballinrobe last August.