Imperial Ruler showed real determination to shed his maiden tag in the opening Ryan's Cleaning, Waste & Recycling Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

The five-year-old gelding, trained by last years Irish National National winning handler, Dermot McLoughlin was in front before the turn in but was strongly challenged going down to what should have been the second last hurdle.

However, a big jump at the final flight put him back in the race and despite the best efforts of gallant runner-up Gorgeous Suspect the McLoughlin runner had too much in hand.

It was heartwarming to hear the cheers from the crowd as the local runner came home to a huge reception.

Dermot McLoughlin, “He’s a nice horse and he picked up well when he got stuck into him.

“I’d say he’d like a bit of slower ground but he did it well.

“When he saw a lad with an orange jacket at the second last hurdle that was omitted he ran a round a bit but it was a good performance.

“He has to learn a bit and I’d say he’ll keep going.”