Hurricane Flies for Champion win

Hurricane Fly gave Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh their first success in the Stan James Champion Hurdle with a hard-fought win over Peddlers Cross at Cheltenham.

The two principals fought a mighty duel just before the final flight, with the 11-4 favourite digging deep up the hill to take the spoils for Ireland.

Peddlers Cross (9-2) was a gallant length and a quarter back in second for Donald McCain, with the Nicky Henderson-trained Oscar Whisky (7-1) five lengths away third.

Walsh said: “He never settled really and ran keen, but we know he has the speed and class.

“He’s shown the ability that myself, Willie Mullins and Paul Townend always believed he had. He’s a deserved champion and a right little horse.

“He’s only small but he has a big heart and he needed it today. I probably got there a fraction too soon, but he never gave me a chance early doors.”

Rather than exuding confidence beforehand, Mullins was just relieved to get Hurricane Fly to Cheltenham after missing the previous two Festivals following setbacks.

Mullins said: “We had no excuses, everything had gone right the whole year. It was just great to get here and the relief even when he left the parade ring was enormous.

“I just didn’t want something stupid to happen coming here, a kick or a cough. He’s got speed, stamina and he jumps. Today was the day. I am just delighted he got the chance to show what he can do.

“I didn’t give Ruby any instructions, I said you know what to do so just do it. There’s no better man to leave it to.”