Guiding George galloped on strongly in the closing stages to take the opening race of the year at Kilbeggan in great style.

The Paul Gilligan-trained gelding had disputed with well-backed 8/11 favourite Rudolf from the fourth flight in the 2m3f contest.

His rival came under pressure after the third last and Barry Cash kicked for home before the penultimate flight on his mount.

The 7/2 shot galloped on strongly over the last two, pulling away for a comprehensive 12-length success.

The winner had finished a well beaten sixth in a Navan maiden hurdle last month but was taking a drop in class today.

Gilligan was delighted to get a winner for owner Tim Crowe, who is based in London but is originally from Craughwell in Galway.

“The two of us grew up together and played hurling together. He's been a great supported of mine.

“The horse was balloted out a few times when he had flights booked to come over.

“Most of all I'm delighted for Barry Cash who has been very good to us, schooling horses.

“We may leave him off now. He's a chaser to look forward to.”

It was a welcome winner for the Athenry handler, his first since last August.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)