Kendancer and Philip Byrnes jump the last © Photo Healy Racing
The 11/8 favourite Kendancer was a ready winner of the Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle to give 7lb claimer Philip Byrnes his second winner in the professional ranks.
Byrnes, who got off the mark as a conditional on Run For Oscar at Killarney on Saturday, sat second on the experienced 5-year-old before sending him to the front between the final two flights. Coastguard Station looked a threat on the home turn but the winner went away from him in the final furlong to score by three and three quarter lengths.
The Kendargent gelding, runner-up twice in similar contests last year, was getting off the mark over hurdles at the ninth attempt.
He was a 1m4f winner on the Flat in France when in the care of Eoghan O’Neill.
Winning trainer Cathal Byrnes, elder brother of the winning rider, said: “I’m delighted with that and on ratings he was entitled to win it. His jumping had been a bit iffy in the past but he really put it together today.
“It’s great for the owner as he’s been a frustrating horse to follow and it’s great to get his head in front.
“Philip gave him a straightforward ride, gave him plenty of light and he really got a good tune out of him.
“I’m not sure if there are many opportunities left for him on the Flat but most likely he’ll mix it between the two. He handled the ground well.”
Quotes from Alan Magee
