Midnight Run (13/8) took the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle on his hurdling bow, drawing clear after three out to come home nine and a half lengths ahead of the 8/13 favourite Colreevy Conflated (20/1) was third a further four lengths away.

The two market leaders were to the fore throughout, with the winner tracking the Willie Mullins-trained Grade One bumper winner before galloping away from her to score in good style.

The Well Chosen gelding, a full-brother to Cheltenham Bumper runner-up Carefully Selected, was smart in bumpers himself, winning twice and chasing home Envoi Allen at Navan.

Of Joseph O'Brien's winner, jockey JJ Slevin remarked: "His bumper form was good last year and I'd say he is a good solid horse and will be a good stayer.

"Going up in trip in time will be no harm to him.

"He is another exciting one and Colreevy is a very decent mare. He got through the ground well and has a good attitude."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes