Easy for Young in Listed hurdle

The Horse And Jockey Hotel Hurdle looked a straight forward task on paper for So Young and so it proved on the track as he recorded an effortless success.

Ruby Walsh popped the 1/8 shot out in front in the Listed event and he never had to come off the bridle to land the €17,875 first prize.

Nearest pursuer Noras Fancy cried enough before the last as the hotpot sauntered to victory.

Willie Mullins' charge was hard held to post a six-length winning margin.

The winner had scored over 2m6f on his seasonal reappearance but the drop back to the minimum trip proved no hassle for the classy performer.

The French-bred is set to go back up in trip now with the World Hurdle firmly in the plans.

"He did it nicely," said Mullins afterwards.

"He'll go for races with a trip and will probably get an entry for the World Hurdle - that's the direction I'm going.

"As the ground dries out he should need a trip. There is a Grade 2 at Naas towards the end of January. That's a possible but I may have others for that also."

Stan James left the winner unchanged at 20/1 for the World Hurdle.