Simon Gray got favourite backers off to a good start in the opening race of the Easter Festival at Fairyhouse, but the win was a bittersweet triumph for trainer Dessie Hughes as the gelding broke down after the winning post.

Tony McCoy was on board the JP McManus-owned six-year-old and he travelled well in fourth throughout the 22-runner two mile maiden hurdle race.

The 9/4 favourite hit the front coming to the last and powered away to win by three and a quarter lengths from 10/1 shot Back To Balloo He’s Our Man travelled strongly on the outside round the home bend, but had no answer after the last and came in third at 11/4.

After winning the race Simon Gray broke down and was dismounted by McCoy on the way to the parade ring. Trainer Dessie Hughes said: “Unfortunately he has broken down there. He went before on us. We have him two years. We gave him time before and he has gone again.

“We’ll try and get him back again. It looks worth giving him another year off. It has been all holidays with him – three runs in two years.

“That’s a pity as he looked like he could be a good horse.”

God’s County in the Gigginstown colours was popular from 10/1 to 4/1 in the morning, however, he finished fourth under Davy Russell at 6/1.

Elsewhere, Hawk Flight from the Maura McGuinness yard attracted good money from 8/1 in the morning to an SP of 4/1, but he came in sixth.

Michael Graham