Hurricane Fly in the hands of Paul Townend got the better of Donnas Palm by a neck to land the Grade 1 Bar One Racing Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said afterwards: 'Paul gave him a super ride in a race that was difficult tactically. He risen to the occasion each time we have asked him to.'

Mullins went on to express his delight at the performance of Cousin Vinny who was making his jumping debut in this Grade 1 contest and finished less than 3 lengths behind his stablemate in third place.

'I'm absolutely delighted with Cousin Vinny, he will improve considerably from this run and will look for a nice novice race for him next.'

Hurricane Fly is likely to stick to 2 miles and will probably head for the paddypower.com sponsored Grade 1 Future Champions race at Leopardstown over Christmas.