The Noel Meade trained Leroy Parker came out best in what could hardly be described as a thrilling finish to the opening Racegoer’s €25 Package 3YO Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse today.

Described subsequently by Meade as ‘a bit of a monkey’, Leroy Parker did come out best in a close finish to the race although runner-up His Excellency #8217;s tail swishing and reluctance to battle played a big part in the winner’s half length success.

Afterwards Meade said “Leroy Parker is a bit of a monkey but has plenty of ability.

“He jumped those hurdles better than the ones in the north the last day although he may have got a bit of a fright up there. He tends to mind himself a bit but he goes on that soft ground and I suppose we’ll come back here early next month for a Grade 3 hurdle.

“Leroy Parker, like a lot of his owner Joseph Kirwan’s horses, is named after a character from the Wild West. Leroy Parker is the real name of Butch Cassidy.”