On a predictably low-key pre-Cheltenham card at Navan, Schwartzhalle put up the performance of the day when making every post a winning one in Div. 2 of the Wilikinstown Maiden Hurdle.
David Harvey's charge went a good gallop in the desperate conditions but found plenty when challenged in the straight and had a facile ten lengths to spare at the line.
The well-bred Starry Lady was another to benefit from forcing tactics when securing the opening Ballinlough Maiden Hurdle, with favourite Steinitz (11/10-1/1-11/8f) only third.
John Bowles, still recovering from a recent bout of pneumonia, was pleased with the filly's performance although he has no immediate plans for her.
'I've only had her a couple of months, and although she's no world-beater she did that well and will jump fences in time,' said the handler.
Pacamisto stayed on resolutely to repel market leader Tragic Lover by a rapidly-diminishing 2 1/2 lengths in Div 1 of the 2m2f maiden hurdle, although things might have been different but for the runner-up blundering badly two out.
Osiris got the better of a good duel with Sergeant Bill in the Nobber Handicap Hurdle, while well-touted newcomer Fota Island landed the bumper in good style for Mouse Morris and Philip Fenton.
The victory will have come as some consolation to owner John Magnier, whose Ned Kelly was earlier ruled out of Tuesday's Champion Hurdle by trainer Edward O'Grady.
The early-morning abandonment of the three chases left just a five-race card, and not surprisingly the attendance appeared to suffer as a result.
