TWO major storylines shaped the opening Grade 1 of the Dublin Racing Festival – Final Demand was beaten, and Mark Walsh proved why he first earned the role as J.P. McManus’ first jockey.

Walsh has remained quiet while the media and racing fans dissect the recent announcement that Harry Cobden will take over at the end of the season, but he let his riding do the talking when partnering Kaid d’Authie (5/1) to victory in the Ladbrokes Novice Chase.