Ronald Pump charged home to land the I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Novice Handicap Hurdle Series Final at Fairyhouse.

A competitive field of 23 runners went to post for the €55,000 contest and despite having won three of his last four starts for Matthew Smith, Ronald Pump was a 12-1 shot under Keith Donoghue - running off a 13lb higher mark than when scoring at Cork on his latest outing.

There were still plenty in with chances rounding the home turn and it was Ronald Pump who saw out the three-mile distance best to prevail by two lengths from Ifyoucatchmenow.

Smith said: "He's just been improving and he really wants to win.

"I bought him for €1,000 at Tattersalls and we didn't expect him to be this good. He had a nice page and there was just something about him that I liked. I know he's a bit small, but it's no bother to him.

"The plan was to go to Aintree, but it was just a little bit quick after Cork so we said we'd come here.

"I'll chat to the lads - he could probably do with a little break at some stage."

The formidable combination of trainer Henry de Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore enjoyed a double on the card.

Or Jaune De Somoza justified 7-4 favouritism in the Mongey Communications Beginners Chase before 5-1 shot Surf Instructor claimed a narrow victory in the Ratoath Pharmacy Ladies National.

"Or Jaune De Somoza was a bit disappointing mid-winter, but he seems good again now and he was tough there," said De Bromhead.

"He's a novice through the summer and I'd presume we'll carry on with him as he likes that better ground.

"I'm delighted with Surf Instructor. It was a super ride from Rachael (Blackmore)and it was a lovely performance from the horse.

"This horse probably doesn't want it quick, but he's in good form and we need to strike while the iron is hot."

La Tektor deservedly opened his account in the Eat Your Vegetables Maiden Hurdle.

Tony Martin's charge had filled the runner-up spot on each of his four previous starts under rules - most recently being caught on the line over this course and distance.

He was an 11-8 favourite to end that frustrating run and displayed a willing attitude under Denis O'Regan to see off the promising Hang In There by three-quarters of a length.

Martin said: "He dug deep. Unfortunately he's just met a few good ones. The experience helped today.

"He's been good for the last few weeks and you'd like to let him off, but it all depends how he is next week - we'll see about Punchestown on the Friday or Saturday."