A horse bred to be a classics contender on the flat finally made his name in racing with victory in one Australia's major jumps races.

Maythehorsebemagic put on a brave front-running performance to win the J J Houlahan Hurdle (3400m) at Sandown on Sunday, at the same time announcing himself as a contender for even greater honours next season.

The former New Zealander, by Zabeel out of Group winner Arletty, began his career with Roger James and also spent some time with Mike Moroney at Flemington, but it is Warrnambool trainer Jarrod McLean who has encouraged the best from the gelding.

"We've just picked our way with him, trying different things and learning as we go," McLean said.

The process has worked better than any other attempted with Maythehorsebemagic with the Houlahan win his third for McLean following two other hurdle wins at Warrnambool.

Ridden by the trainer's brother, Brad McLean, Maythehorsebemagic ($6) burned the field off in the first 200m and kept the gallop solid for the remaining 3200m.

Approaching the last hurdle the favourite Westsouthwest ($2.45) loomed up and appeared to be set for success only to fail by a half neck.

The 2011 Sydney Cup winner Stand To Gain ($5.50) battled on for second 2-1/4 lengths further back.

The only casualty among the nine starters was King Triton who fell at the second last but quickly got to his feet and galloped to the finish line.