Makitorix was all the rage for the opening John Lynch Memorial Maiden Hurdle at Listowel, and duly justified the confidence with a wide margin win.

The French import went off the 4/9 favourite on his first start for new connections, and made most of the running before drawing clear in the straight.

Ruby Walsh ’s only slightly anxious moment came when his mount pecked on landing at the last but the combination came home 18 lengths clear of Motcomb Street Big Ben was a further six and a half lengths back in third.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said, “He looks a nice recruit and we’ll go down the novice route with him. He will probably stay at the minimum trip but I wouldn’t be afraid to move him up in trip either.

“I was pleased the way he handled that type of ground for a Flat horse. I know he won on heavy in France but it’s a different type of ground."