The Philip Fenton trained Real Steel made an impressive winning hurdle debut at Cork today, making most to win the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle for owners Gigginstown House Stud.

Ridden by jockey Brian O'Connell, the son of Old Vic raced quite keenly but was well clear of the field for most of the race, staying on strongly in the straight for an easy 17 lengths win over Crystal Earth

Afterwards Fenton said “he's a fine horse but needs to learn to settle; he got a little bit hot before coming into the parade ring but hasn't done that at home and is a gentle giant.

“He is a real future chaser, probably over two miles rather than further and hopefully more racing will help settle him down. We'll take our time with him and might wait for a winners' of one race in the new year next.”

Regarding the winner's stablemate The Tullow Tank, Fenton added “he has to be supplemented for the Royal Bond but that's where he's likely to go.

“Dunguib and Last Installment are in good form but aren't likely to be seen out until January.”

By Thomas Weekes