The opening race on MCR Hurdle day, the Tote Pick Six 20,000 Guarantee Maiden Hurdle, saw smart Flat performer The Bull Hayes make it fourth time lucky over jumps, under Barry Geraghty.

Geraghty produced the gelding to lead entering the straight before stretching clear of 5/4 favourite Ballyburke from the last, recording a 12 lengths win.

Afterwards winning trainer Jessica Harrington stated “I don’t know what happened to him at Cork the last day when he seemed to spit the dummy out! One of his owners has a theory he doesn’t travel well but he got things together today.”

She added “he is bred to stay, is better going left-handed and was entitled to win this on his Flat rating. His owners have been very patient with him in recent times.”

Thomas Weekes