Those that made Loch Ard a 4/7 chance for the opening Spring Team Classic Final 2012 at Gowran Park Maiden Hurdle would have been a little concerned going to the final hurdle but it was ultimately a comfortable win for Paul Townend's mount.

A decent fourth on his hurdling bow at Fairyhouse four weeks ago, the ex-David Wachman-trained maiden travelled and jumped throughout this two and a half miler with ease. Townend got a little bit more animated going to the last as Beachdale Lad (backed from 16s this morning into 7s) and Cyprusormilan battled it out up front.

However Loch Ard (getting weight from most of his rivals as he's only a 4yo) eased on from the back of the concluding flight to beat Beachdale Lad and Cyprusormilan by two and three parts of a length and four lengths.

Willie Mullins trains Loch Ard for Wicklow Bloodstock Limited and he said: "He settled great – I thought he'd settle and like the trip.

"It might be quick enough on him to go to Fairyhouse but I'll look at it and we'll have a look at Punchestown for him as well.

"Nick Peacock, an English businessman is the owner of Wicklow Bloodstock and he has Simenon with me as well." (DM & EM)