EBAZIYAN got the Irish off to a flying start in the Anglo Irish Bank Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham yesterday, but the grey’s success was met by an almost deathly silence as he crossed the line, giving rider, Davy Condon, a first Festival winner.

Bookmakers were purring following day one of the Cheltenham Festival after several well-backed favourites were turned over.

Ebaziyan and Davy Condon ran out surprise 40-1 winners of the Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, the opening race of the 2007 Cheltenham Festival.

AMARETTO ROSE’S main obstacle ahead of the Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle could be her lack of match practice, according to handler Nicky Henderson.

Nicky Henderson’s Amaretto Rose will face 21 rivals in the Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.

Andrew McNamara is looking forward to the Cheltenham Festival after securing his best ever book of rides for the meeting.

Mohayer will bid to return to winning ways in the Grade Two totepool Premier Kelso Hurdle at the Borders venue on Saturday.

Punjabi, who was an impressive winner at Kempton on Saturday, has been confirmed by trainer Nicky Henderson as an intended runner in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.

Nicky Henderson’s Champion Hurdle contender Afsoun is likely to have his prep race for Cheltenham in the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton on Saturday week.

JOHN MURPHY is set to take the wraps off Cheltenham hero Newmill in the Grade 2 Byrne Group Tied Cottage Chase at Punchestown tomorrow.