Ben pays for the stags

Beautiful Ben produced a game front-running performance to land the two-and-a-half mile maiden hurdle at Wexford.

Trainer/jockey Denis Hogan let his mount hit the front at the second flight and it was at the penultimate hurdle he kicked for home.

The Beneficial gelding galloped on strongly in the closing stages to prove four-and-a-half lengths too strong for Railway Rule Halling's Treasure sent off the even-money favourite, was being drive along in fourth when falling three out.

The 9/2 winner had run well on his previous start when third at Tramore and was stepping forward again.

"That was a weak maiden hurdle. The favourite went out of it but obviously I didn't know that,” said Hogan afterwards.

“There was nothing much in it and I wouldn't get carried away with it. He jumped well, the penny is starting to drop with him. He has been hot and he wears a hood in the ring before we whip it off going out.

“Ann Grace is the key to him, if she is not with him he has no chance. She knows how to settle him and get on with him. She does a great job and travels all of my horses, she is brilliant.

“It is nice to ride a winner too. My brother's stag is on in Kilkenny tonight and I will enjoy that now. I think they all had their tenner on so it will keep them in beer money for the night!

“I can't imagine that the handicapper will be too hard. He is hard on himself and needs a bit of break between races. He wouldn't mind a cut in the ground. My father Martin owns him."

(Additional reporting by Donal Murphy)