Associated with John Oxx, Dermot Weld and Ken Condon in his time, as well as a stint in Japan and son of former trainer, the late Arthur, Darren Bunyan got off the mark in the training ranks courtesy of the nicely supported Grey Danube (16s earlier in the day into 7s, admittedly Further Proof, the original favourite was a non-runner, injured in transit) in thetote.com Handicap under Leigh Roche at Dundalk.

Based on the Curragh (beside Dessie Hughes) Bunyan sent out Grey Danube, owned by his brother Brian, a financial expert in London, fresh and well for this assignment, off the back of a 154 day break.

Despite being keen, the victorious Verglas gelding had enough in reserve after hitting the lead a furlong and a half out, to beat the favourite, Ferryview Place

Bunyan said: "I'm delighted to get that and I have six in at the minute. We bought him in Newmarket and we'll keep him at the same level.

"After being assistant to Ken Condon for 8 or 9 years I've now got a dual purpose licence of my own and my Dad Arthur was a trainer as well." (MG & EM)