Michael Hourigan has always thought plenty of Awkward Moment (15-8 favourite) and he finally repaid some of that faith in the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick.

Trainer Michael Hourigan was on hand to welcome back the winner, who carries the famous Beef Or Salmon colours of owner Joe Craig.

"I bred him myself and sold him thinking he was a very good horse but my horses just weren't running well," said Hourigan.

"Hand on heart I still think he could be a very good horse but today is the first day he's showed that he's a good horse.

"I just hope he can justify the colours. I'd love to think he could be half as good as Beef Or Salmon but a third would do!< Honest Man (5-1) edged out Posh Bird in a thrilling finish to the Bet With Downpatrick Tote Handicap Hurdle.

Posh Bird looked the likely winner entering the final furlong but Honest Man (5-1) refused to lie down and despite looking beaten passing the post, officials announced him the short-head winner.

Winning trainer Brian Hamilton said: "He's in at Down Royal next week and we might possibly run there.

"I watched it from the last hurdle so couldn't see the finish & ndash; I was just doing plenty of shouting and roaring. I was sure he was beat."< Lou's Coole Girl (5-2 joint-favourite) had to survive a stewards' inquiry in the Downpatrick INH Flat Race.

Edward O'Grady's six-year-old made contact with Ballintemple Star close home but was allowed to keep the race.

Jimmy Lambe's Kircassock Vic sprang a 25-1 shock in the Saintfield Windows Systems Maiden Hunters Chase to give jockey Graham Watters his first success under rules.

"Graham gave him a fantastic ride and it's his first winner on the track," said Lambe.

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