Favourite backers got off the mark in the third race at Downpatrick when 7/4 shot Usuel Smurfer romped home by 13 lengths in the maiden hurdle.

Danny Mullins was on board for Shark Hanlon. He sent the five-year-old gelding to the front at the fourth last and he powered home up the hill for a decisive victory at 7/4. Killough Kin took second at 25/1, a short head in front of My Aya (11/4). Distant Sound was popular in the betting ring (10/3 to 5/2), but came in fourth – 10 lengths adrift of third place.

Winning jockey Danny Mullins said: “He gave me a great spin and he’s a nice horse. It’s a pleasure to ride for an owner like Barry Connell.

“The Shark did a great job to get him here today. He should have a nice future.”

The winner was improving on a runner-up finish at Killarney in a maiden hurdle on May 13.