Kempes booked his place at the Cheltenham Festival with an impressive victory in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday.

The 5/1 chance held off the challenge of Glencove Marina and Joncol as he secured his place in the 2011 Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The JP McManus owned superstar looked good value for his victory and Frank Berry, racing manager for the owner, explained: "I was surprised with how well he handled the ground.

"Davy gave him a lovely ride but I was surprised with how easily he picked them up.

"AP (McCoy) said he would have been involved in the Lexus when he fell two out, but he's gone on the ground today all right."

Meanwhile, a delighted Mullins said: "The surprises are always the best ones! "I asked David to go out and get him to jump round and if he'd any chance to take it.

"I said to him if he got round he'd have more speed than the others and he probably even arrived too soon.

"I'm delighted for the horse, his owner and especially his jockey as he gave him a terrific ride.

"I'd imagine he'll go for the Cheltenham Gold Cup next and better ground should suit too - the ground might not be as bad as we thought today."