The Nice Guy maintained his unbeaten record when making it three from three on his hurdling debut at Naas this afternoon.

Willie Mullins' charge had landed two bumpers and went to post a 6/5 shot on his first outing over timber.

Paul Townend was prominent throughout on his mount and asked him to hit the front at the second last in the two-mile-three contest. The Short Go and the winner's stablemate Ramillies gave chase down to the final flight with the latter making a bad mistake.

The Nice Guy always looked in control though as he galloped on strongly to score by eight lengths from The Short Go.

Mullins said:- “He jumped well and stayed well and Paul said he’d be happier to go further. He jumps and gallops.

“I’d imagine we’ll be looking at the Albert Bartlett but we’ll see what connections want to do.

“Ramillies ran a terrific race and I think he probably needed that run. He’s a big, round horse and I couldn’t have done any more with him at home. That should bring him on hugely.”

Paddy Power made the winner 16/1 (from 25/1) for the Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle.

(Quotes by Alan Magee)