Mickelson produced a smart front-running performance to run out a cosy winner of the conditions hurdle at Ballinrobe.

Paul Carberry completed a quick double when dictating matters from the front in the two-and-a-half mile contest.

The Noel Meade-trained gelding was only briefly headed by Flycorn around the halfway point.

That rival dropped away after the second last as the well-backed favourite Clondaw Warrior (7/4 into 11/8f) emerged as a danger.

Mickelson (4/1) quickened smartly before the last to settle matters, however, and skipped clear for an easy four-and-three-quarter length success.

Outsider Empire Theatre (22/1) ran on to finish second without threatening the winner.

"He doesn't like being annoyed in front and got a nice easy lead," reported Carberry. "It's nice good ground."

Carberry had also landed the opener on Usa

Gary Carson & Alan Magee