Voluptueux was a strong order for the Athleague Maiden Hurdle – 2/1 into 7/4 – and he delivered under Brian O'Connell in the opener at Roscommon.

Philip Fenton 's charge, a bumper winner and placed on his three previous starts over flights, was in front from three out on the way to a comprehensive eight and a half length dismissal of Steel King

Fenton reflected: "That wasn't before time. He was a bit disappointing the last couple of runs. He was a bit clumsy in his jumping before today and it has taking him a while to get it together.

"We let him stride along today, the last few times we went easy with him and the bird had flown a bit. There is a winners of two at Galway that he could go for or maybe he'll go to Sligo the following week instead."

D.J. Condon, rider of Ningbo Express trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount pulled up lame.

P.T. Enright, rider of Heartbreak City (FR), trained by A.J.Martin, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was held up before staying on in the latter stages. He added that the horse might prefer slightly easier ground. (DM & EM)