The first division of the 80-95 handicap hurdle over 2m4f went to the admirable veteran Fleurys Fort

The 11-year-old by Robin Des Pres had made the frame in three of his previous four starts and was produced to challenge in the home straight by Ryan Treacy.

Treacy, teaming up successfully with his partner for the sixth time, didn’t have to reach for the whip as his mount led on the run-in to beat No Way Pedro by two and a quarter lengths.

Winning trainer Lesley Young said: "He has eight hurdles won now and is still only rated 87! He was coming home well at Listowel the last day and the ground will dictate where he goes now .

"He wouldn't want it much worse than that but hopefully we'll tip away for another month.

"Not too many horses win eight races."

Quotes from Thomas Weekes