Carlito Brigante opened his account over fences with a convincing success in the novice chase at Killarney.

The 2/1 favourite was emulating stable-mate His Excellency who also made a winning chase debut in the Gigginstown colours in the opening contest.

Last year's Coral Cup winner settled behind the leaders before jumping up to tackle long-time leader Catcherinscratcher at the third last.

Davy Russell 's mount edged ahead at the next and a great leap at the final fence settled matters as he pulled clear on the run-in for a seven-and-a-half length victory.

"He was entitled to win that on his hurdle rating," said Elliott afterwards.

"Nothing went right for him last season. He had a wind op after his first run and had to have stitches after Cheltenham.

"It's nice to get him back on track. He'll be kept going during the summer and then left off after the Cheltenham meeting in October."

Gary Carson & Thomas Weekes