The long journey from Co Down reaped a good reward for Colin McBratney when Laureate delivered in the Patrickswell Handicap Hurdle at Limerick.

The six-year-old mare went off 20/1 for this 80-95 contest over an extended two miles.

Sean Flanagan sent her into the lead approaching two out and she readily increased the advantage over 100/1 shot Sweet Cassie with one to jump.

She sailed over it and strode in by three and three quarter lengths. Sweet Cassie could make no impression in second. She was three quarters of a length ahead of third-placed Luis Van Zandt (9/2).

The 7/2 favourite, Imperial Choice could make no headway in eighth.

Colin McBratney said: "She had been working well and was ready to rock n' roll in March, so was very fit and very well. I am delighted for the owner (Mrs Orla Cleary-O'Kane) and it's great to be back racing, healthy and well.

"She may go to Bellewstown in a couple of weeks and ideally I want to jump a fence with her."

This was a birthday winner for Flanagan (32).

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes