Glenstal Abbey ran out a cosy winner of the Kilberry Novice Hurdle at Navan as hotpot Quinola Des Obeaux flopped badly.
David Casey took it up three out on the eventual winner as the 8/15f, who had cut out the running, started to fade.
He kept on well in the closing stages to post a three-and-a-half length victory over Quito De La Roque who didn't help himself with sloppy jumps at the last two flights.
"He's a very consistent horse. We brought him to England last time but he's 10lb higher over there and is badly handicapped. We'll keep him to his own company," said trainer Charlie Swan.
"Obviously there are a lot of bugs around at the moment and a few of mine didn't perform recently.
"He goes in the soft but I don't think any horse likes it that heavy. We might look for something after Christmas for him."
The pulled up Quinola Des Obeaux was found to be clinically abnormal post-race with trainer Willie Mullins commenting that he seemed to have a bit of an infection.
