McKinley came through after the last to win the first race of the Galway Festival, the two mile novice hurdle.

Grey horse Erlkonig dictated matters under Danny Mullins, but he looked a sitting duck over the last. Paul Townend soon drove McKinley past and despite coming across to the stands-side rail he had two and a quarter lengths in hand at the finish.

The 7/1 chance beat Ridestan (12/1) into second while filly Morga finished well to grab third at 3/1.

Dermot Weld’s Manhattan Swing who won on the flat at Down Royal, was the 15/8 favourite. He raced in rear under Davy Russell who asked for more after the second last. He could only get as close as sixth in this eight-runner race, beaten five lengths. Punters had latched on to the opening 9/4 in the ring.

Paul Townend said: “To get one on board so early is lovely. He jumped better and travelled sweeter for me. When I gave him a slap he picked up for me and I thought happy days!

“I brought him over to the rail to have something to run against. There might have been a little left in the locker. It is lovely ground and safe ground.”

Willie Mullins said: “He’s improving and his jumping is improving. He’s getting more confidence. He handled the ground fairly well. I thought it was a very hot race beforehand. I’m very happy he has improved from his maiden.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes