Zaarito put a couple of spills behind him to run out an effortless winner of the novice chase at Naas.
Davy Condon let his mount hit the front at the second last from long-time leader Whatuthink
The 4/7 favourite stretched clear with ease before the last and jumped the final fence big and bold. Condon sat quiet as he went on for a six-length victory.
"He can jump! He's been unlucky and has done stupid little things at stupid times," said trainer Colm Murphy.
"He's done a lot of schooling since. Over drains and banks - you name it he's jumped it.
"We'll stick to the plan and go for the Powers Gold Cup at Fairyhouse. He has plenty of pace and can go up or down in trip. He's grown up a lot as well.
"The last day probably answered a few questions for us. It's just a matter of keeping him in one piece.
"The day after Leopardstown he was bucking and rolling. He must be made of elastic or something.
"We always thought he wanted better ground and Davy said that today. We have a bit more confidence after that and he deserved it."
