Jack Kennedy more than earned his fee on Steamboat Bill in the opener at Down Royal when getting the short-priced favourite home in the Sean Graham Bookmakers Maiden Hurdle.

The Gordon Elliott-trained gelding was sent to post a well supported 5/4 shot having traded at 7/4 this morning.

He didn't travel throughout the two-and-a-half mile contest however with Kennedy pushing him along intermittently.

The five-year-old was driven into contention on the long run to the last and got the better jump there to gain an advantage over Stowaway Shark He maintained that to the line for a half length win.

"Jack said he hated the ground and was off it the whole way. Jack showed why he's going to be good, he kept rowing away and pushing,” said Elliott.

"I'd say we'll give him a little break and wait for better ground. I'd say he wants further."

Owner Brian McKnight from Bleary, near Waringstown added: "He's only turned five. We bought him through Kevin Ross and he came highly recommended. I'm very pleased and it is great excitement."

There was a nasty incident at the first as Briar Lane unshipped Sean Flanagan. The second last was omitted with Flanagan still receiving treatment.

He was subsequently stood down for the rest of the day with a badly cut ear.

(Quotes by Michael Graham)