Rock on Ruby won the Stan James Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival this afternoon.
The pre-race talk was all about previous winners Hurricane Fly and Binocular, with the former heavily backed to retain the crown that he won last year.
However, neither of the much-fancied horses ever got into a position where they could challenge for first place.
Paul Nicholls-trained Rock on Ruby, ridden by Noel Fehily, made for the head of the pack at the final turn and held off a sustained challenge from Overturn to win the race.
Hurricane Fly, with Ruby Walsh on board, claimed third spot.
Rock on Ruby finished second, behind Hurricane Fly, in last year's race.
Written by
Liam Apicella
Liam Apicella
