Quevega completed her fourth successive Cheltenham and Punchestown double with a five length victory is yesterday’s Ladbrokes World Hurdle, however the race had become something of an anti-climax for the large crowd of spectators, following the withdrawal of the horse most fancied to rival Willie Mullins’ mare, Solwhit.

Solwhit was pulled from the race as jockey Davy Russell noticed bleeding on the horse’s nose and, following an inspection from the on course vet, the decision was taken to remove Solwhit from the action as a precautionary measure. Precaution turned to disappointment for Solwhit supporters as it later transpired the bleeding was from a simple scratch above the nose, rather than anything more serious.

In the end it was Quevega and Ruby Walsh charging home by a distance from nearest challenger Reve Di Sivola.

Today sees another star of jump racing, and one of Ireland’s finest ever; Hurricane Fly go for more Mullins glory, in the Rabobank Champion Hurdle. With Ruby Walsh on board and a two and a half length win over Rock on Ruby—the main rival today—at Cheltenham the bookies will have Hurricane Fly at very short odds to take a fourth consecutive win.

Punchestown Friday Schedule

3.40pm - KFM Hunters Chase

4.20pm - AON Novice Handicap Chase

4.55pm - Breakfast With Hector Handicap Chase

5.30pm - Rabobank Champion Hurdle

6.05pm - Tattersalls Ireland Champion Novice Hurdle

6.40pm - Best For Racing Novice Hurdle

7.10pm - ITBA Fillies Scheme Bumper

7.45pm - Irish Racing Post Champion Hunters Chase

Image: Hurricane Fly ridden by Ruby Walsh on the way to winning the Stan James Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan