There was plenty of money around for Carmels Boy in Navan and he ensured a payout for his supporters when doing it from the front in the two mile seven handicap hurdle.

He travelled well throughout under Richie Deegan, but after jumping the second last there were plenty of horses within striking distance. Deegan asked for more from his charge as he held a narrow advantage from Close One jumping the last.

The 10-year-old bravely forged on to the line while pressed all the way by that rival who was beaten into second by a length and three parts.

The winner was returned at 9/1 from 14s this morning. The runner-up was well supported at the track from 8/1 down to 13/2 favourite. Corrick Bridge ran on for third at 14/1 while Take Twice at 7s rewarded his each way backers in fourth in this 24-runner handicap.

Handler Neil McKnight said: “He’s a bit quirky but likes galloping tracks and stays well. Richie has ridden him three times now, and won on him three times (twice before in hunter chases).”

Jockey Deegan is 23 and now has six winners under rules plus nine in point-to-points. Carmels Boy’s owner Dermot O’Brien lives near the trainer in Jerrettspass, Co Down.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee