Whateys Quest put in a professional display to land the Knocklofty Maiden Hurdle in Clonmel.

He was on the heels of the leaders three out and a good jump saw him improve from third to lead for Philip Byrnes on the downhill run.

The 5/4 favourite was on good terms with himself approaching two out and closest rival Splendid Choice did himself no favours when wandering into it.

Whateys Quest soon went on from Midweek Voices and sealed the deal when he cleared the last. He strode in by three and three-quarter lengths from Midweek Voices (9/2 - 3/1) with Splendid Choice another two and a-quarter lengths back in third at 12/1.

Charles Byrnes said: "It took him a while to win, but it was that type of race and he handled the ground well.

"He will run at Tramore on Monday in a 0-102 beginners chase - we may as well."

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes