The Gordon Elliott trained four-time AQPS French winner Barra (5/4f) got off the mark on her third attempt in Ireland when landing the opening Easter Festival Tickets (Mares) Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse today, under jockey Jack Kennedy.

Barra and Kennedy went clear of chief rival Kate Appleby Shoes in the straight and eventually recorded a 12 lengths win over that rival, whose trainer Willie Mullins initially had Barra in his care before a high profile split with Barra’s owner Michael O’Leary, in September.

Following Barra’s win, Elliott stated “she took on two good geldings in her last two runs and she was good there today and she stretched all the way to the line.

"It rode a good race as they were flat out all the way.

“There is a Graded mares’ novice back here in a few weeks that she may go for. “

Barra's win was Kennedy's 50th winner of the season and the 17 year old's maiden half-century, having ridden 44 winners in his first season last term.

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee