He is from the family of the Group performer Balthazaar's Gift and though his attentions have now been switched to the National Hunt sphere, Darwins Theory could well make a name for himself over jumps judging on how he has began life as a hurdler. On outing number two over timber, the Montjeu gelding justified favouritism in the New Ross Maiden Hurdle at Wexford under Paul Townend. Red Calima Groomed and Darwins Theory were the three that counted from some way out and though the first named pair stuck to their guns admirably, it was the market leader that found most on the extended run-in (the last hurdle isn't in use owing to ground conditions). Carrying the famous Michael Ryan silks, Paul Townend crossed the line two and three parts of a length to the good on Darwins Theory.

John Queally trains the victor, equipped with a tongue-tie and the Waterford handler said: "It was a weak race and he got away with it.

"I think he'd prefer better ground and he'll likely go for something at Punchestown now – maybe a winners of one. He just might be a good horse next season." (DM & EM)