Rock On Ruby caused an upset at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday with a surprise victory over Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle.
The 11/1 shot ridden by Noel Fehily reeled in Overturn heading into the home straight and held off a late challenge from Overturn, Hurricane Fly and Binocular to take the line honours.
Twenty-to-one outsider Overturn was three-and-three-quarter lengths back in second while heavily favoured 2011 winner Hurricane Fly, ridden by Ruby Walsh, was forced to settle for third.
“I thought he had a chance and I had a nice charity bet on him last week at 14-1,” Rock On Ruby trainer Paul Nicholls said.
“I think he was the young horse against some older legs today and that’s made the difference,” added Nicholls, praising Fehily’s flawless performance in the saddle.
“It was a great ride by Noel. He’s a good man and has got a great winner. This is awesome,” he said.
Fehily, meanwhile, said his mount had thrived in the conditions.
“I went down and schooled him earlier in the week and he felt amazing,” Fehily said.
“I was told not to worry about sending him on but I was worried going to the last as he was pulling up a little bit, but he picked up again afterwards.
“The ground probably suited him a little bit today, he was very well on the day.”
Elsewhere Tuesday, Sprinter Sacre turned on the style to romp home in the Arkle Chase.
The 8/11 favourite obliterated the field to coast home by seven lengths from Cue Card.
“He has so much scope and size, but more than anything he’s just a dreadful show-off,” said trainer Nicky Henderson.
“He wants everyone to watch him and, happily, he’s worth watching.”
Meanwhile Cinders And Ashes scored an emotion-fuelled win in the Supreme Novice Hurdle, beating Darlan by one-and-a-quarter lengths under Jason Maguire.
The 10/1 chance was bought by the legendary late trainer Ginger McCain and trained by his son Donald.
“I’m not saying we expected it but we really hoped he might be the real deal,” said McCain.
“Jason said that wasn’t him flat out either I know that sounds cocky but he’s good. He was tough as well. He’s just a very decent horse.”
