Sicilian Secret ended a frustrating sequence of placings when readily justifying 11/10 favouritism in the opening Fairyhouse Vets Promoting Equine Health Maiden Hurdle.

The eight-year-old gelding had filled the runner-up spot in four of his previous six starts over hurdles but made no mistake on the faster ground here.

Ruby Walsh 's mount led three out and drew clear on the run-in to beat Ross Na Righ (6/1) by nine lengths, the pair pulling well clear of the remainder with Lismakerry (14/1) third.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said: “That was not before time. Both Ruby and David Casey, who has ridden him before, said he needs the spring ground. He's very ground dependent. Although Punchestown is a bit soon, he may go there or otherwise go for a novice chase early in the new season.”