Grimes proved an able deputy for owner J P McManus when taking the #110,000 Shell Champion Hurdle on another glorious day at the Festival.

Istabraq took the inaugural running of this Grade 1 event last year, and Charlie Swan was again in the saddle as the Christy Roche-trained gelding made all.

The 7yo gelding drew clear after two out to beat Decoupage (also runner-up last year) by 3 1/2L, with favourite Stage Affair a further 1 1/2L back in third.

'Grimes bounces off that ground, and Christy has done remarkably well to keep his patience with the horse,' said McManus afterwards.

Feathered Leader (Norman Williamson) captured the other Grade 1 prize when holding off Shannon Gale by 2 1/2L in the David Austin Memorial Novice Handicap Chase.

Arthur Moore said afterwards: 'David (Austin) was a good owner and friend so this win is particularly satisfying. He may go for the Galway Plate.'

Venetia Williams opened her account at the four day meeting when Zahari benefitted from a strong drive by Tony McCoy to edge out The Indispensable and Kapok in the 4yo hurdle.

'I was a bit worried about the ground, and he will be gelded over the summer,' said Miss Williams.

Henry de Bromhead has made a fine start to his training career, and Feeling Grand was his sixth winner since taking out a licence this year when taking the 2m handicap chase.

Barry Geraghty's mount led between the final two fences but was all out to hold Johnny Brushaside by a neck at the line.

Paul Moloney and Fran Flood were both taken to hospital after taking falls in this race.

Denise Foster, who has recorded 10 wins in point-to-points, saddled her first winner under rules when Polaris Flame (Peter Buchanan) took the hunter chase.

The shock victory of Testify (33/1 but paid #230.50 on the Tote) provided Eamon Fahy with a huge dividend of #41,019.

Fahy subsequently won a BMW car as the sole winner of the jackpot after drawing lots with Carmel O'Brien who won the jackpot on Tuesday.

Testify was ridden by Gary Hutchinson, who was in the spotlight earlier this week when leading up Commanche Court in the Heineken Gold Cup.

Ballyamber made virtually all under James Nash to beat Sparkling Gold by 2 1/2L in the bumper.

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