The Adrian Maguire trained Monty Blue ran out the length and a half winner of the opening Larrigy's Bar Kilbeggan Maiden Hurdle at a wet Kilbeggan today.

Ridden by Barry Geraghty, the close relation to Denman, raced in mid-division before progressing to lead after the second last flight, staying on well in the heavy ground to defeat Talkin' Tough

Maguire later reported "Monty Blue did it well but Barry (Geraghty) said he'd prefer better ground and further. He has been a good consistent horse and is out of a half-sister to Denman."

The Co Cork trainer added "Monty Blue is owned by roofing supplier William Crowley, who has been very patient with him and we may go for a winners' race next."