Shaneshill, runner-up to Douvan in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle last season, made a winning chasing debut in the Killinan Beginners Chase at Thurdles.
Just below the very best over timber last season, Willie Mullins views him as a staying prospect in time yet he started life in his new discipline over two and a quarter miles.
Settled in third by Ruby Walsh, he was efficient if not spectacular for most of the race and when the contest began to develop there was a brief moment of worry.
At the third-last Shaneshill got in a little tight and lost a few lengths but on landing Walsh shook him up and he quickly shot past his rivals, meaning he approached the second-last with a few lengths to spare.
On the run to the final fence only Walk To Freedom was still in touch and Shaneshill (1-4 favourite) pinged it to coast clear and make the perfect introduction in winning by three and three-quarter lengths.
The winner was left unchanged as the 8-1 favourite by Betfred for the JLT Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham.
Mullins said: “I was happy with what I saw and I don’t think he made any mistake. I was very happy the way he jumped the last three and he had to kick on over the last two.
“I have no plans yet, he’s in all the good ones (over Christmas) but I’d like to keep him and Douvan apart.
“He could step up in trip, but I’ll see what I have at Christmas — I hope to have the same problem in three weeks’ time!”
There were no problems, either, for Petit Mouchoir (1-5 favourite) in the Cahir Maiden Hurdle.
Winner of the Goffs Land Rover Bumper at the Punchestown Festival for Gordon Elliott, he was switched to Mullins for his new discipline.
Bryan Cooper had him handy throughout and while there were a few sticky leaps, he did everything that was asked of him.
Given his head on the run to the last he sealed the victory with a big leap, coming three lengths clear of Lofgren.
“He did well to win considering how hard he pulled and I’m hoping in a stronger race he’ll settle better,” said Mullins.
“I don’t mind going further (in trip) but his next run will depend on what turns up (over Christmas).
“He looks a nice sort but should be easier to ride over two miles. After getting that first run out of his system, he might also be easier to ride.”
Mullins made it a short-priced treble when the even-money chance Royal Cavalier finally opened his account over timber in the Holycross Maiden Hurdle.
However, Walsh had to work very hard to see off stable companion Haymount.
“The previous year’s experience won it for him, but he improved nicely. We’ll look for a novice hurdle next, but will look for one down the country rather than up!” said Mullins.
