David Casey dominated early proceedings at Fairyhouse when partnering the first three winners, including Triumph Hurdle bound Quatre Heures, at combined odds of nearly 27/1.
Casey oozed confidence on Quatre Heures in the 4yo winners hurdle, with the heavily-backed 4/9 favourite coming home on a tight rein to score by an effortless 1 1/2L.
'I'm delighted as it was a huge performance to carry a penalty and win like that. He jumped better as they went faster and David said he handled the better ground well,' said Willie Mullins.
'I'd say he'll go for the Triumph now, and Mister Hight will probably run at Leopardstown next Sunday,' added Mullins.
Cashmans and Sean Grahams both cut Quatre Heures to 14/1 for the Triumph Hurdle, while the Cork firm make Mister Hight their 6/1 favourite.
Mullins and Casey were also on the mark in the opening Tattersalls Ireland Mares Beginners Chase where Sunami Storm also scored with some style.
The eight-year-old struck the front approaching two out and cruised clear on the run-in to beat Shanann Lady by eight lengths.
Queen Astrid was strongly fancied to make a winning start over fences but came under pressure before the straight and could only finish sixth.
'She disappointed us at Navan last time but David said she was a different horse today. We may find a winners race for her or she could go for the final of this series at Uttoxeter next month,' said Mullins.
Jirlan completed the Casey treble when prominent throughout in the two miles and a furlong handicap chase, leading early in the straight to beat Island Pride by 3/4L.
'He did it well and we could switch him back for a hurdle race,' said trainer Arthur Moore.
A four-timer for Casey looked a distinct possibility as Time Discloses All travelled well into the straight on his jumping debut in the two miles maiden hurdle.
However a mistake at the last put paid to his chance as Drummer First kept on well under Denis O'Regan to hold the late challenge of The Roney Man by a length.
'He's a born chaser and we may not run him again this season if the ground tightens up,' said successful trainer John Kiely.
Gazza's Girl provided further evidence of the rejuvenation of the Jessica Harrington yard, leading before two out for Tom Treacy in the 2m4f handicap hurdle to beat Johnjoes Boy by 3 1/2L.
Nicky O'Shea picked up a winning spare ride on Tipper Road, 16/1 but paid 32/1 on the Tote, in the 2m handicap hurdle and resulted in the jackpot pool of e3,735 being carried forward to Punchestown tomorrow.
Rachel Harney partnered her first winner when Sorrentina, trained by her father Bill, stayed on gamely on the far rail in the bumper to beat Whatdoyouthinkmac by 1L in the mares bumper.
Alan Magee
