Favourite backers get off to a winning start at Navan today when the Charles O'Brien trained Apache Drums (2/1f) landed the opening Irish Form Book 3YO Maiden Hurdle, under Mark Walsh.

Carrying the J.P.McManus colours, the son of High Chapparal needed a strong drive to eventually get to the front on the run-in to deny Narima by a neck.

Afterwards O'Brien, better known as a Flat trainer but enjoying his fifth jump success of the season, joked "you could confuse me for a National Hunt trainer at the moment!"

He added "I have two three year olds in training for J.P.McManus and both have now won. The fellow is hardy and tough and keeps improving but I've no plans from here."

Jockey Andrew McNamara, who had a heavy fall from Royal Scout (fatally injured) in the race, was stood down for the day having suffered bruising and was sent for precautionary x-rays on his neck.

Thomas Weekes