Jamie Codd was crowned amateur champion for the first time at Punchestown last Saturday, and he wasted no time opening his account for the new campaign when successful aboard Westland Row in the Now Selling Coors At Downpatrick Maiden Hurdle.

Sean Flanagan set out to make all the running on 11/10 favourite Classic Place but was tracked by Codd on Westland Row inside the final half-mile.

Codd sent the 2/1 winner to the front off the home bend and the Gordon Elliott-trained gelding kept on well to score by two and a half lengths. Atlantic Breaker came home well up the final hill to just deny Classic Place the runner-up spot.

Elliott said, "I thought it might have been a tricky enough day. We had loads of chances without seeing what would win. It's grand to get off to a good start.

"We knew it was a long run to the last and we didn't want to be in front too soon so we are happy enough. We'll keep him going all summer."

(MG & AM)