Spear impressive on hurdling debut

Magic Spear made an impressive start to his jumping career when landing the maiden hurdle at Killarney in great style.

Robbie Power settled his mount in mid-division early in the 2m1f contest before taking closer order in the straight.

Colm Murphy 's charge jumped into the lead at the second last and showed a smart turn of foot to skip clear before the final flight.

The Barry Connell-owned Dr Massini gelding stayed on strongly on the run to the line to post a cosy five-and-a-half length verdict on his hurdling debut.

The 9/2 winner (from 4/1) had landed a bumper at this venue back in July, which had been his first start since March. Truckin All Night was the market choice, backed from 5/2 into 7/4 favourite, but was no match for the winner, coming out on top of a battle for second.

"He's one to look forward to and I'd imagine we'll get a little novice next and take it step by step," said Murphy.

"The penny is only starting to drop and he's got more professional. That little bit of experience over hurdles will do him a lot of good."

(On course reporting by Alan Magee)