Salvador Ziggy (15/2) stayed on best to land the Guinness Novice Hurdle under a fine ride from Davy Russell.

The six-year-old, successful on his previous two starts at Punchestown and Roscommon, tracked the leaders and moved into second two out. The 8/11 favourite Hors Piste had led from flagfall and was making the best of her way home but came under pressure after the last and was run down by the winner who got up close home to win by half a length.

The winner's stable companion The Friday Man was another five lengths back in third.

Winning trainer Gordon Elliott said: “Davy is great, he's getting on in years now so we are kind of minding him and picking and choosing what we put him on.

“He's a great jockey and I'm very lucky to be in the position I am to have all the jockeys I have.

“Russell is 43 or 44 years of age now but he's like good wine, he's getting better as he gets on.

“He's not going to ride much this year, we'll pick and choose what to put him on, but on the big day there is no-one better.”

On the horse he added:- “He was good. I'd say he loved the ground and three miles will probably suit him. He had a penalty today so it was a nice performance and great for all the connections.”

Owner Liam Hurley said: “We got a great kick out of that and we're delighted with him. He's after improving and improving and I think there is a bit more in him.”

Quotes from Gary Carson