Mythical Hero showed his resolution to win the opening maiden hurdle in Cork after a battle with North Of Nashville

He worked his way back to the front approaching two out but was pressed at the final flight by North Of Nashville.

The latter got on terms along the run-in, however, Mythical Hero stuck to his guns in the closing stages to pull the victory out by a neck at 22/1 under Tommy Brett.

North Of Nashville was well punted from 16/1 to 9/1 but had to settle for the runner-up prize. There was a gap of 12 lengths back to third-placed Itwasfate (9/2).

Trainer Mags Mullins said: "He is a tough horse and I'm delighted with him.

"He went around in a schooling hurdle in Tipperary and did it lovely. These four-year-olds are better at the back end and while he isn't a giant, he's not tiny either. He's tough and I like him.

"He is a Soldier Of Fortune, who is good and solid, and is out of a Flemensfirth mare and I even had a little five on him myself. He had a good run in a bumper but was a typical four-year-old and went a bit flat. He is flying since he came back in and had plenty schooling done.

"I'm delighted for Tom and Mary (Furlong) who are lucky owners, which makes a big difference!"

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes