The improved ground conditions proved the key as Showem Silver justified some solid support to take the Fairyhouse Steel Handicap Hurdle.

The Philip Reynolds-owned gelding was stepped up in trip here on his first handicap start off the back of a four-month break, and continued a good run for trainer Noel Meade who enjoyed a big race double here yesterday.

The 10/1 chance came through with a strong run between horses to lead at the final flight, and stayed on with great effect under Sean Flanagan on the run-in.

The course bumper winner had over four lengths to spare at the line over Black Zero with Lasoscar a neck back in third. Kilfenora completed the places in this 2m6f event.

Meade said, “We worked him last Wednesday on good ground and he seemed to be a different horse. He was struggling very badly on the soft.

“He’s a lucky owner and the great thing about him is he just lets you get on with it. When I said that I wanted to wait he said there was no problem.

“He’s out of the same family as Aran Concerto. Nina (Carberry) had him as a bumper horse and sold him after he won his bumper here. That’s the first thing he’s done right since then.

“I’d say he will race through the summer, and we’ll be looking at the Galway Festival. He’s not over big but I’d say he’ll jump fences as he has plenty of scope.”