Lough Ferrib ran out a convincing winner of the Derrinstown Stud Apprentice Handicap at Down Royal under Sam James.

The John Hassett-trained gelding hit the front over two furlongs from home and soon had matters in hand.

The 3/1 favourite stuck on well in the closing stages to score by two-and-a-half lengths from Hey Bosco Champion Boy did well to finish third after his saddle slipped in the early stages.

He hit the front over half a mile from the finish and could find no more when headed by the eventual winner.

"I suppose he's overdue that. He could go to Listowel now for a hurdle," said Hassett afterwards.