Although McNamara once recorded a four-timer at Musselburgh, his first career treble came at the Kilkenny track at the weekend through Aranleigh (11/10f) and the Edward O’Grady-trained pair of Shazand (4/1) and Kasimali (5/1). 

McNamara is these days stable jockey to O’Grady, having previously based himself with Michael Hourigan, for whom he still rides occasionally.

The remarkable achievement was completed when Tony Mullins’ Aranleigh, sporting the colours of JP McManus, made a successful hurdling debut in the Porters Saddlery Maiden Hurdle.

With more quality rides coming his way, this fantastic treble is unlikely to be McNamara’s last.

McNamara also contributed towards the first treble of trainer Philip Fenton at Fairyhouse. Undoubtedly the highlight of the Fenton milestone was the impressive victory of Woodbine Willie (9/4), ridden by McNamara, in the Rathoath Maiden Hurdle. Jimmy Gleeson’s six-year-old son of Zaffaran coasting home an 11 lengths winner from Ella Cavallo (20/1) with disappointing favourite Coolcashing (4/7) a well-beaten third.

Woodbine Willie has been entered in the Barry & Sandra Kelly Novice at Hurdle before Christmas, as has Rathmore Castle for Maureen Danagher.

Beef or Salmon kept on for a remote third, and some decent money for his connections, in the Betfair Chase at Haydock Park, a race won by odds-on favourite Kauto Star.

Michael Hourigan’s charge gave a real commendable display, especially when one takes into account that he had missed out on a prep run and would have been suited by even softer ground – he could well still be the one for Denman to beat in the valuable Lexus Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas.

Denman first runs in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday next.