The Henry de Bromhead-trained Megalomaniac stayed on best in the closing stages to make a winning start over fences in the opening Tom Murphy Mercedes A-Class Beginners Chase at Tramore.

The Gigginstown gelding went to post a 5/4 shot for the two-mile-five contest and tracked leader Knock On Steel for most.

Sean Flanagan asked his mount for an effort at the second last and he gained a narrow advantage over the final fence, going on to record a length-and-a-quarter win.

The Alfred Nobel gelding had opened his account over hurdles on his previous outing at Clonmel.

"That was great and he got a super ride from Sean,” said the trainer.

“He is a grand horse and is improving all the time. He is very big and fair play to Sean for getting him around because he had a little stumble on the bend there.

“We'll see what the handicapper does. It was a suitable 109 or less race and there is some nice rated novice chases throughout the summer so we will see what else there is. He might still be reasonably well treated over hurdles."

(Quotes by Donal Murphy)