Nicat's Benefit quickened up smartly to run out an easy winner of the Ardfinnan Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel.

Roger Loughran held his mount up in the 2m2f contest before taking closer order turning for home.

The Liz Lalor-trained mare travelled well to challenge two from home and hit the lead before the last.

She was pushed out to go clear on the run-in and record a six-and-a-half length success over Soul Kaliber 15/8 favourite Hickey's Rock was well held in fourth.

The 2/1 winner had been runner-up in a bumper at the course earlier in the month.

"She was due her turn as she's a consistent little mare and is tough out. She is consistent but just met a few too good for her in the past,” said Lalor.

"I always thought she wanted better ground but she is handling the softer ground now and with maturity and strength she is getting better."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)