Aussie Valentine justified strong support in the opening mile maiden at Dundalk when making all for a convincing win.

Chris Hayes popped out in front on the 9/10 favourite (2/1 this morning) and the son of Aussie Rules galloped on well in the closing stages.

He was asked for an effort over a furlong out and Paul Deegan's juvenile went on to record a two-length success over Captain Teemo

The winner had been fifth on his debut run at the Curragh when he hadn't enjoyed the clearest of passages.

“It was very straight forward and he is a nice horse,” said Hayes afterwards.

“He had a lovely education at the Curragh when he didn't get the smoothest of passages and Niall (McCullagh) said he'd have no problem winning a maiden.

“He stepped up at home and Paul's horses are in good form. He's a nice one for next year and hopefully there is more to come.”