The opening I.N.H. Stallion Owners E.B.F. Maiden Hurdle at Navan was billed as being all about heavily-backed 1/3 chance Battleford He disappointed in fourth place as one of Gordon Elliott's five runners, Brelade came to the fore to land the spoils under Jack Kennedy.

Kennedy ended a frustrating spell of 'seconditis,' since returning from injury, on 11/1 hurdling first-timer Brelade.

The Presenting gelding was better than runner-up, Joey Sasa at the last, and he went on to score by a neck.

Elliott, who also saddled the promising third-placer, Midnight Escape said: "He's a nice horse and wants a bit further. We'll step him up in trip now.

"It's great for Jack as that's his first winner since he came back from injury."

(AM & EM)