The Abbey brought up doubles on the card for both Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy when staying on strongly to land Division ll of the Team Powerstown Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel.

For much of this race the eye was drawn to hot favourite Search For A Myth who travelled strongly under Philip Enright.

The latter made his move on the outsight going down to the final flight but couldn't quicken away from the eventual winner.

The Abbey showed real determination to plug on willingly up the rail and was always holding the second at bay.

Part Owner and Racing TV Pundit Gary O'Brien said; ""This was a very appropriate place for him to win as every time I come racing, he is on the front page of the race card!

"It has been a long time trying to win over jumps with him, he has won a few flat races in fairness to him but was better in over hurdles. He had also been knocking on the door a few times over fences and I'd say he'll mix it away for the summer.

"Peter and Willie Reynolds, two brothers and pals of mine, and Noel Maguire also own him, none of them could make it tonight but I'm sure they'll be watching in."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.