The Grey Express a dual bumper winner last year, finally got off the mark over hurdles at the ninth attempt when given a beautifully timed ride by Paul Townend to beat 23 rivals in the two and a half miles mares maiden hurdle.

“He's not champion for nothing” declared winning trainer Pat Fahy after the 7/2 joint favourite was produced by Townend to lead just after the last for a length and three quarters verdict over Our Ellie B (15/2).

The other joint favourite Meitheamh held every chance but could find no extra on the run-in to finish another half length back in third.

Fahy said, “We freshened her up and to be honest took a bit of a chance on her being fit enough. This was probably her last chance while the ground is still in her favour. Paul had to produce her late and was as cool as a breeze. If the ground kept good for a while then she could run again.”

Alan Magee