The drama was only beginning when four to one on chance Bon Papa came down at the third last in the McCarthy Insurance Group Maiden Hurdle at Cork. Boru Boy (hampered in that incident) was the one to eventually take the spoils at odds of 16/1.

After Bon Papa had departed the scene when crumpling on landing, it appeared to soon come down to a match between Alkaa Lion and Iconic Image

However Boru Boy, with J J Slevin up in the familiar silks of Courtown, County Wexford Peugeot garage proprietor, Patrick Doyle, finished off up the run-in much the strongest.

Having his first start since June 2014, dual point-to-point winner Boru Boy eventually shaded the verdict by a head and a short head from Iconic Image and Alkaa Lion.

"We were unlucky the last day he ran over hurdles when the saddle slipped on him and then he had a problem and has been off ever since," said winning handler Ger Murphy, saddling his first winner on the racecourse proper since Moneyinthebank prevailed in November 2000.

"He had only one problem but thank god we've that sorted out and it took us that long to sort him out.

"He's a tough old cookie and when he was asked, he fought back well. We expected a big run today, amongst ourselves. We have seven horses and do it for a bit of sport.

"We'll wait and see how he is tomorrow before making plans."

The Stewards interviewed J.J. Slevin, rider of Boru Boy, concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race.

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that J.J. Slevin was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using his whip with his arm above shoulder height and R10(4) by failing to give his mount time to respond to the whip.

Having considered his previous record the Stewards suspended J.J. Slevin for 2 racedays.

(TW & EM)