Hurricane blows rivals away

He may have done no more than was expected, but it was still a most taking display by Hurricane Fly in yesterday’s BHP Insurance Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The contest was run in horrendous conditions, driving wind and snow, but Hurricane Fly moved through the race like a dream and his five lengths winning margin over stable companion, Thousand Stars, was no indication of his superiority.

Bookmaker reaction was entirely predictable and he was immediately promoted to favouritism for the Champion Hurdle by every firm.