Kevin Prendergast completed a 39/1 double at Down Royal as The Scourge made virtually all under Chris Hayes to take the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

The Whipper gelding was strongly pressed by evens favourite Chief Suspect at the furlong pole but stayed on gamely to get on top in the closing stages.

The 9/1 chance (from 12’s) had half a length to spare at the line, with Pershing staying on a further neck back in third. Wee Monster initiated the Prendergast double when taking the juvenile claimer in the hands of Gary Halpin.

Hayes said, “He deserved it. He was called a few names after Listowel which I thought was a bit unjust and he proved there that he’s genuine.

“I steadied the pace in front but they were coming at me from over two furlongs out. If anything he was only getting going (at the finish).”

(MG & AM)