THE Noel Meade-trained Jesse Evans won the featured Grade 3 Kevin McManus Bookmaker Grimes Hurdle at Tipperary on Thursday evening. Sent off 7/2, the Jack Singleton-owned gelding stayed on best under Donagh Meyler to get the better of Enniskerry (17/2) in the final 110 yards by half a length.

Meyler said, “He’s been great and has brought the owners all over the place and was in Ascot not so long ago. He’s a yard favourite. He’s grinded it out and is as tough as nails. He had a nice weight on the ratings and had match fitness on his side which definitely paid off there. He’s toughed it out the whole way up the straight. I’m not sure what plans are but he’s won a graded race today and we’ll celebrate that.”