"An hour before racing we were thinking about taking him out because I thought the ground was too quick," admitted trainer Enda Bolger after his Little Stevie had landed the opener at Cork, the Paddy Power Betting Shops Maiden Hurdle under Brian O'Connell.

Second market choice at 2/1 behind 7/4 favourite Hickey's Rock (couldn't raise his effort in the straight), the successful Overbury gelding in the end ran out a good six and a half length winner from Bensachuine

"He's only had seven or eight weeks work and we're looking forward to the winter with him. It was a nice surprise and his jumping was great. He got a nice ride too," added Bolger.

"It's hard luck on Katie O'Farrell as she rode him here when he fell at the final flight and was to ride him today but was stood down.

"I'm delighted for his owner, John Glews, who flew in from Shropshire this morning to be here."

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Hickey's Rock, trained by M.F.Morris, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

D.J. Mullins, rider of Hickey's Rock trained by M.F.Morris, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung right.

D.E. Mullins, rider of Phantasmo trained by John Patrick Ryan, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount leaned right.

(TW & EM)