Old Laxey produced a game front-running performance to claim the two-mile maiden hurdle at Thurles.

Davy Russell always had the Old Vic gelding at the head of affairs and he responded well when tackled in the straight.

9/4 favourite Spot Fine threw down a challenge two out but Henry de Bromhead's charge wasn't for passing and held that rival at bay by three-parts-of-a-length.

The winner hadn't been seen since finishing a well-beaten fifth in novice company at Sandown in December.

"The ground made a huge difference to the horse, he disappointed through the winter, but Davy said he loved it today" said De Bromhead.

"He's a big backward baby and the sooner he meets a fence the better. He'll keep going while it's nice-ish ground."

(GC & TW)