Ciandarragh, left, makes the best way home© Photo Healy Racing
As commentator Dessie Scahill put it "Ciandarragh has got a dream run through on the inside" and so it proved as she took full advantage to score by two and a half lengths in Kilbeggan's bumper.
The 6/5 favourite, representing Willie and Patrick Mullins on her debut, took up the running approaching the home bend and powered home from Moylisha Tim (10/1). Hardtorock (16/1) was another five and a half lengths away in third.
"I got to the front sooner than I wanted. I saw the horse in front hanging out so I waited till I got off the bend and took a chance," said Patrick Mullins.
"She's not too bad. She's a King's Theatre mare and they aren't making them anymore!
"I'd say she's the smallest I've ever ridden. Her owners have been terribly patient with her as she's seven now and they deserve a lot of credit.
"She's not slow and could go back on the Flat for a mile and six or two mile maiden. We haven't schooled her over jumps yet."
Bookmakers were left reeling as six favourites obliged on Kilbeggan's card this evening.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
