John Nicholson is aiming high with Mill Forge following his success in the Andrew & Bridget Kenny Memorial Maiden Hurdle at Naas.

The seven-year-old confirmed the promise of his recent jumping debut at Fairyhouse when claiming the 2m3f contest under Danny Benson.

The 5/1 shot hit the front going to the second last and battled on well in the closing stages to post a three-parts-of-a-length victory over Champoleon

10/11 favourite Investmentsuccess disappointed back in fifth.

“He's as good a horse as I've had in a long, long time. Chasing will be his game and he won't be too long over hurdles,” said Nicholson afterwards.

“He might have one more run over hurdles. We've always thought a lot of him and gave him plenty of time.

“We're eyeing up Cheltenham next March – my father always told me to aim high!”

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards enquired into the falls of Mclaren Vale ridden by R.C. Colgan, and Liss Ui Riain ridden by B.F. Cawley, on approaching the bend seven furlongs from the finish. Evidence was heard from B.F. Cawley, who stated that his mount slipped up independently and from R.C. Colgan, who stated that his mount was brought down by a falling horse. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards took no further action.

D.E. Mullins, rider of Investmentsuccess, trained by Alan Fleming, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount ran very free.