Bay Of Freedom (7/2) pulverised his three opponents in Galway’s bumper as he hacked up by eight lengths with Katie Walsh in the saddle. Captain Von Trappe appeared to swinging off the bridle on the approach to the home turn and favourite backers who took the 1/2 on offer must have been on good terms with themselves.

However, the picture soon changed as Bay Of Freedom found plenty for pressure in third and swept into the lead on the home straight. Captain Von Trappe couldn’t find an extra gear and had to watch as Bay Of Freedom powered up the hill to impressively win by eight lengths from the favourite.

Peter Fahey said: “I think a fair bit of him. I knew at home he came on a bit from his Listowel run. The experience stood to him.

“He’ll be let off now and go for a winners’ bumper in Spring. We’ll keep his novice hurdle status until next season.

“It’s great for Paul Leech (the owner). He’s now based in Boston, but was here today. He’s involved in non-profit charities.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes