Aintree Festival bumper winner Steps To Freedom made a winning debut for trainer Jessica Harrington in the concluding RSM Farrell Grant Sparks Maiden at Leopardstown this evening.

Ridden by the trainer’s daughter Kate Harrington, the son of Statue Of Liberty readily went clear of his rivals in the straight, for a comfortable win over Johnny McGeeney

Afterwards Harrington Snr stated “all the hard work was done by Gordon (Elliott, previous trainer) as I only have him about six weeks. All I had to do was get him fit and bring him here!”

“He was very good and it was lovely of his owners to let Kate ride, I appreciate that. I said to her afterwards that she wouldn’t get many easier winners!”

“Steps To Freedom could stay on the flat now as he has a bit of class. We’ll see what the handicapper does but he jumps really well too.”

Thomas Weekes