With seven non runners due to the ground deteriorating to soft (yielding) in places, Mr Smith went off 4/9 favourite for the Class Grass Handicap Hurdle in Roscommon and dotted up.

He would have been a warm order anyway after blitzing his rivals in Galway on Sunday by 10 lengths.

It was a similar story today as he strolled in 12 lengths to the good under a 5lb penalty.

The only real moment of concern for his backers was when he dived at the third last. Kevin Brouder quickly got him back into stride and the pair soon asserted.

Messi stayed on to take a moderate second at 16/1. Each-way backers also lifted a dividend from third-placed Quarry Lil (16/1)) in this eight-runner race.

Mr Smith was one leg of the famous treble landed by trainer Charles Byrnes in Roscommon three summers ago.