Mick The Man lost his maiden status this afternoon on the 8th time of asking after he won The 20% On Line Discount Maiden Hurdle under Matthew O'Connor in the colours of James Grace.

O'Connor raced his mount in behind the leaders, took closer order travelling well approaching straight, led before last and stayed on well to win by an impressive 12 lengths.

Winning trainer Colm Murphy said afterwards, "He has been an unlucky horse, he came up against some very good horses last year and he hadn't a lot to beat here today. There's no real race for him over the Christmas. We will keep him over 2 1/2 miles or we may step him up to 3 miles. We will keep him ticking over and I think he is a better horse when fresh."