Veteran Curragh trainer Kevin Prendergast gained a rare winner over jumps as first reserve Smiling Bess just prevailed in a thrilling finish to the Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey Maiden Hurdle.

The daughter of Mount Nelson made headway under Jody McGarvey to challenge on the home bend and was neck and neck on the run-in with Churchwarden just getting the better of that rival by a short-head. King Kali was five and a half lengths back in third.

Incidentally the 14/1 winner is out of the Beneficial mare Katie T who provided Prendergast with one of his biggest victories over hurdles when landing the €100,000 BoyleSports Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown nine years ago.

McGarvey said, “Thankfully there was a non-runner and she got in.

“She jumped, travelled well and was tough all the way to line. To be honest I thought she was beat as this place usually favours the inside.

“I play a bit of golf with Kevin and drink the odd pint with him in the golf club in Cill Dara. I’ve been schooling away for him over the winter, and he lets me ride them when I can.

“I’m delighted to ride a winner for him as he’s such a legend of the game and a gentleman to go along with it.”