Rooster Booster wins Champions Hurdle

Rooster Booster produced a scintillating display to win the Smurfit Champion Hurdle.

Philip Hobbs' grey took over from long-time leader Intersky Falcon approaching the final hurdle and scooted up the hill to win as he liked at 9/2.

The race was dramatic from the start with Hors La Loi refusing to race and champion jockey Tony McCoy's mount Copeland toppling over at the third last.

But as they made the final turn, the blistering pace set by Intersky Falcon was taking its toll on everyone except Rooster Booster.

When jockey Richard Johnson asserted going to the final hurdle, he quickly went clear and had 11 lengths to spare at the line.

Rodi Greene powered 33/1 shot Westender into second place while 5/2 favourite Rhinestone Cowboy, who made one or two mistakes, plugged on one-paced for third.

"He's the best hurdler I've ridden," winning rider Johnson said.

"He may have been a handicapper last year but he's good horse this year. It's great to win."

A delighted Hobbs added: "He did it very easily didn't he?

"Everything has gone great in the last two weeks and everything went right today. I'm very pleased."