Chicago Grey (11/4 in the morning into 11/10) dominated the market for the Demense Maiden Hurdle but his supporters knew their fate from before the straight as the grey was struggling. It was left for the other grey in the line-up, second market choice, River Canon to land the spoils by three lengths under Andrew McNamara.

This was a first winner as an owner for J P McManus' son John. The 5/2 victor carried a set of red silks.

Successful trainer, Edward O'Grady; "It is a privilege and an honour to train John's first winner. He wasn't able to come racing but he did escape to watch it in a pub. The horse won nicely and he'll jump a fence later on."