Toto sweeps to victory on first start for Cromwell

On his first start for Gavin Cromwell, Toto Too showed a smart turn of foot to land the Treo Eile Rated Novice Hurdle.

Previously in the care of Peter Fahey and successful twice from four starts, the Basil Holian-owned seven-year-old was last seen finishing fifth in Grade 2 company at Cheltenham in October.

Back in calmer waters this afternoon, the Ocovango bay was sent off a 16/5 chance and was settled in mid-division on the outer by Keith Donoghue.

Taking closer order approaching the straight, he blundered over two out and was switched to the inner on the run to the last, quickening smartly to lead on the run-in, going on to score by two lengths.

Sent off a 22/1 chance, Dark Note filled the runner-up spot under Cian Quirke for Andy Slattery, while Undeniable Alibi (15/2 from 10/3 early) was just a head away in third.

Returned the 2/1 favourite, Stoke The Fire attempted to make all but wasn't fluent over the last two and eventually finished fourth under Paul Townend.

"That was grand, I wasn't really sure what to expect with the ground," Cromwell revealed.

"I didn't know whether he'd cope with that but the ground isn't too bad and he got through it well. He jumped well bar the second last when it was needed.

"He's a novice and will improve, please God."

When asked if he could be a Galway Hurdle horse he added: "Possibly, he'd want to get another bit of experience on the way but he absolutely could."

Additional reporting by Gary Carson