The lightly raced Champagne Admiral proved too strong for a host of well fancied rivals when galloping on strongly to land the Timeless Sash Windows Irish EBF Novice Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Despite winning his maiden hurdle on his most recent start at Limerick, the five-year-old was sent to post a relatively unconsidered 12/1 chance by punters here. Linden Arden having his first start for the Willie Mullins stable was all the rage, being sent off at 10/11f having opened at double figure prices overnight.

However, having travelled strongly for much of the contest, the Jet Away gelding weakened quickly early in the straight.

Eventual runner-up Waterford Whispers was also strong in the market but he too, had to give best on the day.

Michael O'Sullivan dictated a steady pace on Champagne Admiral, gradually winding the race up from the third last. Try as they might, nothing could get to the Pat Fahy trained winner who kept up to the task in admirable fashion.

Pat Fahy said: "It was an unbelievable ride by Michael. I was thinking of dropping him in and getting him to switch off and Michael said he wasn't happy and, maybe if there was no pace, he'd make up his own mind.

"You saw the result we got.

"We were happy with his mark but the handicapper is rarely wrong, as we know. In fairness, maybe he did give us a little bit of a chance, but he's a good horse."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham.