The opening maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse today looked a two horse race on paper but eventually turned into a one horse procession, with Urban Rebel making all to beat 1/1 fav Cuan Na Grai by a distance.
Cuan Na Grai did close on the leader at the third last but the well backed winner (3/1 into 7/4) kept up the strong gallop under amateur Jack Doyle, son of winning trainer Pat Doyle.
The win was the 16yo Doyle's sixth success while his father later reported 'Urban Rebel got a fright last time out and eventually pulled up. He'll go chasing next season.'
Aghacashel Angel, a final flight faller when looking a winner over course an distance in January, gained compensation when easily landing the Family Fun At Easter Novice Handicap Hurdle.
Ridden by good 3lb claimer Robbie Moran, Aghacashel Angel tracked the leaders before making steady progress to lead entering the straight, easing down for a three length win.
A second win for Wexford trainer Lar Byrne, Aghacashel Angel broke down twice previously but will now go for another handicap before going chasing.
Take Your Mark landed the Best Dressed Lady At Easter Handicap Hurdle for trainer David Broad and jockey Keith Clarke.
Broad later praised the winning rider, mentioning 'Keith doesn't get the opportunities he deserves' before adding 'Take Your Mark is in Clonmel tomorrow and will run if ok in the morning.'
Fools Rush In, beaten by Tolpuddle at Cork on his latest start, went one better in the Advanced Hospitality Bookings Maiden Hurdle, under Davy Russell.
Winning trainer Robert Tyner later commented 'we'll see how the handicapper reacts to the win and see what we'll do from there.'
Ten year old Tragic Lover put in a good front running display to win the Early Bird Discounted Tickets For Easter Handicap Hurdle, under Tommy Treacy.
Winning trainer Donal Kinsella later stated 'that is his first win since winning the Cesarewitch as a 4yo so it was deserved. We decided to make the running because he doesn't like horses being around him.'
The concluding bumper went to Christy Roche's Eternal Lady, an effortless winner under JP Magnier.
