His future may lie over fences but Medical Card can win more hurdles too on the evidence of a good success in the opening Racing Again At Naas On 2nd January Maiden Hurdle.

A half-brother to Nigel Twiston-Davies' mare, Amber Brook from the family of What A Question, Medical Card, formerly owned by Noel O'Callaghan but now sporting the silks of the Neighbours Racing Club, was getting off the mark here at the seventh attempt after twice being second in bumpers and on his hurdling bow 24 days ago at Cork.

Here in the hands of Davy Condon, the 9/2 chance was never too far off the gallop, he led at the last and he was soon clear on the way to easily account for the well-backed White Star Line

Noel Meade, the successful trainer, said: "He was second at Cork last time but the track didn't really suit there as you need to be quick. Here suited much better as it is more of a test with an uphill finish and he is bred to be a stayer.

"I had it in mind to send him over fences but the way he won there could see him go for a novice hurdle now. He'll be a staying chaser in time."