The Sponsors Day At Ballinrobe 3-y-o Maiden Hurdle saw trainer Joseph O'Brien and owners the Annus Mirabilis Syndicate responsible for the first two home as well-backed 6/4 favourite Lord Justice short-headed Zig Zag

O'Brien's cousin J J Slevin was aboard Lord Justice, whilst Jody McGarvey was on 5/1 chance Zig Zag.

Backed from 15/8 into his starting price, Lord Justice atoned for failing to land a gamble at Listowel nine days ago, overcoming a couple of slight mistakes to just prevail.

"I thought I was bet. I looked at the replay coming in and thought I was done on the line," acknowledged the talented winning conditional rider, an Enniscorthy man.

He added: "He's a grand horse and improved from the last day. The ground is probably as soft as he wants it. He will be a nice horse going forward.

"I'm happy I turned professional at the minute anyway. Joseph is looking after me, and with a bit of luck hopefully I can kick on."

(DM & EM)