Mickle Bower under Andrew McNamara, provided trainer James Lambe with his 25th winner of the season when taking the opening Bet at Toals On-Course SP Shop Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick today.

The son of Spectrum raced prominetly, was under pressure in third at the last flight, before staying on gamely to lead inside the final furlong, for a length and a quarter win over Wikaala

Afterwards Lambe stated "Andy (McNamara) said Mickle Bower is a really tough horse and, while we're in no rush with him, he will probably go for a two and a half miles winners' race next."