Barba Papa ran a pleasing trial for the Tote Cesarewitch at Newmarket when landing a gamble over hurdles at Punchestown yesterday.

There was a decent crowd for the first action at the Kildare venue for almost a year where Barba Papa rewarded Adrian Maguire for his day trip from England.

"I wasn't happy with Barba Papa when he ran at Royal Ascot, but he looked a lot better today and quickened up well once he got the strong pace he needs," said trainer Tony Martin after the versatile horse was backed from 11 to 2 to 3 to 1 co-favourite in the Mongey Communications Rated Hurdle.

Barba Papa was patiently ridden by Maguire to take the lead before the final flight and had the prize in safe keeping despite a late rally from co-favourite Darialann.