Big Zeb bravely won a third consecutive Fortria Chase at Navan after an absorbing three-way tussle with Noble Prince and Forpadydeplasterer.

The 2-1 shot took the lead from Forpadydeplasterer after the third-last under Robbie Power, with favourite Noble Prince stalking the pair, and they fought out a terrific battle up the run-in.

Big Zeb, winner of the Queen Mother Champion Chase in 2010, proved the stronger of the trio and beat Noble Prince by two lengths, with the gallant Forpadydeplasterer sticking on well for a close third.

Power said: "He was jumping so well and I was taking him back after every fence - he has a great cruising speed.

"He idled when he got to the front. He is 10 years of age, but he still has plenty of ability."

Trainer Colm Murphy, who was recording a double having scored earlier with Voler La Vedette, said: "I'm thrilled to bits.

“He was very good today. They were never going hard enough for him. It's a great way to start him back and it's a relief to get that out of the way.

"We will keep him ticking over now until Leopardstown at Christmas. He is really well in himself and his jumping was very slick today. He will improve plenty for it."

Stablemate Voler La Vedette made a superb start to her campaign with an easy victory in the Lismullen Hurdle at Navan.

Murphy said: "She is stronger and has been easier to train. She will more than likely go for the Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse in two weeks' time.

"She gets two and a half miles really well. I was a bit worried as she was going so well at home, and she never works well at home."

Il Fenomeno outpointed stablemate Dylan Ross when giving trainer Noel Meade a one-two in the Grade Three 'For Auction' Novice Hurdle

Meade said: "The winner is a tough horse He will be a contender wherever he goes now and he might go for the Royal Bond.

“We will go a different route with Dylan Ross. I know he is a good horse and I think he will get further."

Boston Bob (4-11 favourite) gave leading British owner Graham Wylie a winner with his first Irish-trained runner in the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle.

Trainer Willie Mullins said: "He looks a very nice recruit. The way he jumped he'll make a nice chaser, but I think he will have a good novice hurdling career and I won't be afraid to go anywhere with him."