King Of Queens landed a gamble (6/1 in the morning into 7/2f) to win the Bar One Racing Handicap Hurdle (Grade B) at Fairyhouse today but not before giving his supporters a few moments concern before the race actually started.

Favourite backers had most to worry about before the race began when King Of Queens, ridden by Paul Townend, refused to move and became detached from the other runners moments before the start. However he did eventually move forward as the field circled around and was quickest away from the tape, eventually making all for a comfortable win.

Afterwards winning trainer Tom Mullins stated “it wasn't the plan to make the running but he showed a bit of character at the start and Paul (Townend) let him go on. I'm glad it worked out but it wasn't he plan!

“The ground is as heavy as he'd want it – we'll see what the handicapper does but he got a fair 'dart' for winning by a few lengths at Cork and he'll now get an entry for the Ladbroke Hurdle at Ascot in a few weeks.”

Further reporting from Alan Magee