Trained by Conor O'Dwyer and ridden by his son Charlie, Solar Falcon stayed on strongly to win the opening www.gowranpark.ie 3-Y-O Maiden Hurdle at the County Kilkenny track.

Having his fourth start over flights, the Ribchester gelding made that count, to just last home in a driving finish to this competitive race.

Always towards the head of affairs, Solar Falcon led three out after favourite Magic Thunder made a mistake at that flight.

Headed by Game Phoenix approaching the second last, the battle hardened gelding fought back to lead both that mare and Kaptain Bay at the final flight before keeping on to gain a narrow neck win over the closing You Done Well

Charlie O'Dwyer said: "It wasn't a surprise as we have always liked him but he just wasn't fast enough for the Flat. He is a gorgeous looking horse and we were looking forward to going hurdling as he jumps well.

"We changed tactics today and made the running and he is the type who stays very well so will want further. Winter ground can only help him."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.