Hurricane blows away rivals in Leopardstown

Hurricane Fly swept to a comfortable success in the Istabraq Festival Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The 2011 Champion Hurdle hero showed he will be one to beat back at Cheltenham when following up his victory in this race two years ago.

Willie Mullins’ ace took over from stablemate Thousand Stars on the turn for home and the 1-5 shot strode away under Ruby Walsh for a seven-length verdict.

Unaccompanied was second and Thousand Stars stayed on again to claim third from Captain Cee Bee.