Alaivan impresses with Gowran win

Alaivan went some way to justifying his short Triumph Hurdle price with an accomplished display in the Fancy A Festive Flutter 3-Y-O Hurdle at Gowran Park.

The son of Kalanisi was smart on the level for John Oxx and was sent off the 1-3 favourite, despite not having jumped a hurdle in public.

But now running for the Edward O'Grady team, he was assured at his obstacles under Andrew McNamara and having eased to the front three from home, he hardly broke sweat in disposing of Leblon by 15 lengths.

Alice Bradys Call couldn't capitalise on having his sights lowered in the Santa's Little Helper Maiden Hurdle.

Martina Doran's 4-7 favourite was third to Dunguib in the Royal Bond and although he arrived at the second-last apparently cruising, he flattened the flight and trailed home five and a half lengths behind surprise 25-1 winner King Of Ardcarne.

Luska Lad went some way to atoning for a lacklustre Thurles display in the Chia Booster Novice Hurdle.

The 2-1 chance could only manage seventh on his previous start, but John Hanlon's smart bumper performer showed his rivals a clean pair of heels from the front here, beating Gallant Light by four and a half lengths.

The Gigginstown House Stud colours were carried into the winner's enclosure on Roi Du Mee (12-1) after the Christmas Vouchers At Gowran Park Golf Shop Maiden Hurdle.

Gordon Elliott's four-year-old was having his first run since arriving from France and showed a pleasing attitude to see off Oscar Close by four lengths, with odds-on favourite The Kings Sword only third.

Kot's Terry (11-1) finished fifth behind Sunday's Grade One aspirant Rhyl Accord at Thurles and confirmed that promise in the Irish Racing Yearbook Mares Handicap Hurdle, while 12-1 shot Cheeky landed the Gowran Park Racing Club 2010 Maiden Hurdle.