Winter Lion got his jumping career off to the best possible start when taking the Buy Your 2016 Annual Badge Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown.

Keith Donoghue made virtually all on the two-time flat winner but the 13/8 favourite Mighty Concorde looked sure to score when making smooth headway to challenge after two out.

However the favourite found disappointingly little when asked for his effort, and in contrast Winter Lion stayed on really well under pressure.

The 9/2 chance drew clear on the run-in to beat Supreme Vinnie by two and three quarter lengths, with Mighty Concorde weakening back a further length away in third.

Winning trainer Matthew Smith said, "It was a nice introduction and he's a nice prospect going forward. Keith gave him a great ride.

"He's done plenty of schooling and was very good. We would probably have preferred a lead over the first one or two but he found himself in front and it was no bother to him.

"I don't know where we'll go next - I'll talk to the owner. I'm just happy to get that out of the way.

"Two-and-a-half miles would be right up his street. I thought the two miles might be a little bit too short for him but he handled it well being ridden like that."

(GC & AM)