Oscar Whisky retains Aintree Hurdle title

Oscar Whisky defended his crown in a thrilling finish to the John Smith's Aintree Hurdle this afternoon.

The seven-year-old had his stamina limitations exposed when only fifth behind the mighty Big Buck's in the World Hurdle at Cheltenham last month, but he was strongly supported at 9-4 returned to two and a half miles.

Champion Hurdle hero Rock On Ruby cut out much of the running, but he was unable to stop Oscar Whisky jumping by him at the second-last.

Just as he had done 12 months ago, Irish raider Thousand Stars came at Oscar Whisky hard after the final obstacle but he was once again beaten a neck.

It completed a magnificent treble on the day for trainer Nicky Henderson and jockey Barry Geraghty following the earlier successes of superstars Simonsig and Sprinter Sacre.

Favourite Zarkandar suffered a heavy fall at the sixth hurdle, but his rider Ruby Walsh eventually rose to his feet.