Just Klass (nearest) and Koroleva jump the last together© Photo Healy Racing
Just Klass provided trainer Mark Fagan with his first success since June of 2011, as she took the opener at Cork this afternoon, the Follow Us On Twitter Maiden Hurdle.
Having shown little on her first four starts, the daughter of Oscar performed with credit on her last two outings, finishing fourth and fifth respectively.
Available at 22/1 in early shows, she opened on-course at just 12s, before going off a 10/1 chance under Danny Mullins.
Settled behind the leaders, the bay victor was third approaching the straight and came with her challenge on the outer at the third last.
She was soon engaged in a battle with the even money favourite Koroleva getting on top on the run-in before going on to score by a length and a half.
Ruby Walsh was aboard the runner-up for Willie Mullins, while 50/1 chance Dunloe Lady was another ten lengths back in third.
Fagan, who trains in Co Westmeath, said afterwards: "I knew at home she was in great form and she loved the ground and got a great ride from Danny.
"We had her handy today and in fairness to Dillon Maxwell he didn't do much wrong the last few rides but Danny was 100 percent today and everything fell into place.
"I have only two in training and it's been a while since I had a winner on the track (June 2011) but I've had a few point to pointers also. I am an equine vet and when I get time I do a bit of training in the morning as it's a passion and it's fantastic.
"Sean (Kiernan, owner) is a great friend, neighbour and supporter and I've had two or three horses for him and they've all won.
"It's a big week for me as I have two daughters competing; one is riding on an eventing team for Ireland and the other girl is riding at the Dublin Horse Show."
STEWARDS REPORTS
A. Ring, rider of Annie Irish trained by R.Donohoe, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount stopped quickly.
C.D. Maxwell, rider of Semper Fidelis (GB) trained by William J. McLernon, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ran very green.
M.A. Enright, rider of Fox Dream (GB) trained by Augustine Leahy, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount did not stay.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Pocket Dial, trained by Mrs John Harrington, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be blowing hard post race.
G.N. Fox, rider of Moonball (FR), trained by Gavin Cromwell, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was free early on and got very tired.
P.E. Corbett, rider of Glamorous Gold, trained by N.Stokes, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was one paced, stayed on in the closing stages and needs further.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
