Rock on Ruby wins Cheltenham Champion Hurdle

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.