The Ger Lyons-trained California Daddy gained an overdue success when taking the opening Johnson & Perrott Land Rover Maiden in fine style at Cork.

Colin Keane was soon in front on the 9/4 shot and his mount picked up well when asked for an effort a furlong-and-a-half from home in the mile contest.

The son of Scat Daddy galloped on strongly inside the final furlong, under a hands and heels ride, to secure a four length success over Balefire

The winner had been runner-up on his first four career outings and was dropping back to a mile this afternoon having only managed to finish sixth over ten furlongs last time at this venue.

Assistant Shane Lyons said:- "He deserved that as he is a lovely honest horse but has just come up against one every time - that's what happens in Ireland unfortunately.

"The last day he ran over an extended 1m2f and they went no gallop and then sprinted which wouldn't suit him. He got into his own rhythm today and we kept it simple and the better ground suited today.

"We like him but that is very important for his confidence to get it out of the way."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)