Two smashing leaps over the final couple of flights sealed victory for Cerberus (7/4 into 5/4 joint favourite) in the Grade Three 30 Free Bet BARONERACING.COM Juvenile Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Cerberus’ stable companion A Wave Of The Sea (10/11 out to 5/4 joint favourite) had beaten this winner at Punchestown in October but form was reversed here.

Robbie Power did the steering on front runner Cerberus, and getting four pounds from A Wave Of The Sea this time he came out on top by two and a quarter lengths.

The keen going Tremwedge (25/1) ran a fine race in third, four lengths back. He made a mistake at the last.

J J Slevin would have been riding Cerberus for his cousin Joseph O’Brien if he wasn’t sidelined with injury.

The Good Counsellors Syndicate own the successful Iffraaj gelding and they are a grouping connected through the Good Counsel College boys secondary school in New Ross.

The Good Counsellors Syndicate list Irish rugby international Tadhg Furlong and Kilkenny hurler Walter Walsh amongst their 20-strong number.

“They both ran well and probably the quicker horse won a tactical race. He’s very quick through the air and always very accurate. He had the form and they are two decent three-year-olds," said O'Brien.

“They will probably both go to Leopardstown and stamina will come more into play there. This place always favours a bit of speed and that ground is not too bad.”

BoyleSports have introduced Cerberus at 20/1 for the Triumph Hurdle.

(AM & EM)