Lisburn trainer George Stewart ensured that The Powers Whisky Ulster Grand National stayed 'up north' when saddling News Item to claim the e27,500 prize at Downpatrick.
News Item travelled just behind the leaders throughout and moved up to challenge before four out. A bump from a loose horse at that fence wasn't enough to stop his progress and he was sent into the lead by Davy Russell after the next.
Derawar came from out of the pack to throw down a late challenge but couldn't pin back News Item, who stayed on strongly for a three-length success.
Stewart, who had saddled horses to finish second in the race twice in the past, had been slightly worried beforehand as News Item 'needs soft ground' and was delighted to have landed Downpatrick's top race.
Paul Nolan had a mixed day, saddling a double courtesy of Hard To Credit and Lakil Princess but also seeing Carrig An Uisce thrown out in the stewards room.
Nolan saddled three in the Morning Star Belfast EBF Mares Novice Hurdle and it was Hard To Credit who prevailed with a game front-running performance.
Gary Hutchinson sent the mare into a clear lead at the start and although her advantage was reduced at the third last she battled well to repel all-comers for a six-length victory.
Carrig An Uisce was first past the post in the Justine's Restaurant Downpatrick Handicap Hurdle but had veered violently left towards the horse exit, close home, and crashed into both The Duck and Carmens Boy.
Carmens Boy ran on strongly to grab second despite hitting the rails and got the verdict in the stewards room, with The Duck also promoted to second.
There were no worries for Nolan's charge, Lakil Princess, in the EBF Tattersalls Mares Novice Chase, however, as the mare gained an effortless victory.
She was left in the lead when Kerryhead Sunshine exited at the first and never saw another horse, coming home 13-lengths clear of Grangehill Dancer.
The Martinstown Opportunity Maiden Hurdle finally got underway after three false starts and Munchy Mike emerged on top after hitting the front two out.
News Item looked a nice prospect when pulling away for an impressive 20-length success in the Jimble At Balloo Stud Hunters Chase.
