Former German Group 3 winner Sea Of Sands made a triumphant return after a two-year absence, successfully debuting for Willie Mullins in the McSweeney Brothers Maiden Hurdle at Listowel.
Having last raced in August 2022, the six-year-old was in prime condition, showcasing his class against ten rivals.
Initially racing a bit keenly, jockey Patrick Mullins chose to track Special Cadeau over the first two flights before allowing the 15/8 favourite to stride on after the third.
By halfway, the race was clearly a contest between three horses, with The Mediator joining the front runners.
Special Cadeau was the first to fade, weakening before the home straight. The Mediator was urged on before the second last but struggled, and a less-than-fluent jump at the last dashed any remaining hopes.
Sea Of Sands barely broke a sweat, coasting to a commanding five-length victory under the champion amateur jockey.
"It was a nice start," said Willie Mullins. "We got him from Germany, but he’s had quite a few issues. He finally started to come right in the last couple of months, so I thought we’d pick a nice maiden hurdle for him. He did it well. He jumped the first nicely, but I think that was probably the only one he jumped well! He still has a lot to learn; he was a bit keen, which is common with many Flat horses. We’re considering mixing it up with him. There could be a nice Flat race for him before the season ends."
The winner holds a Cesarewitch entry, and when asked about the possibility of running there, Mullins added, "He could do, provided he comes out of this race alright."