The Willie Mullins trained Kempes proved himself to be a decent sort over fences after he landed the Nas na Riogh Grade 2 under Ruby Walsh.

Walsh tracked the leaders throughout on the seven-year-old before moving into contention after the second last.

The pair were well in front on the run-in as long time leader Jagoes Mills tried in vain to get to his rival, eventually going down by four lengths.

Gary Davis assistant to Mullins said afterwards: "We were delighted with the way he jumped today and it opens up a lot of options for him now."

"Willie and Ruby will have to discuss as to where to go next but he's progressing well."