Drury proved too hot to handle for her rivals in the mares novice hurdle at Fairyhouse this afternoon when making all.

The Willie Mullins-trained mare, a half-sister to Champ, bounced out in front in the two-mile-two contest and had her rivals hard at work turning for home.

Danny Mullins kept the 6/4 shot up to her work over the final two flights to secure a comprehensive 11-length success over Strange Notions Mount Ida was sent to post the 8/11 favourite but came under pressure after the third last and had to settled for third place.

The winner was taking a drop back in trip today having won at Punchestown in late November and the winning rider said:-

“The last day was just short of two-six on softer ground in Punchestown. It took her a few runs to gets her head in front but on better ground over a shorter trip that was a nice performance today and it might open up more options for her.

“Keith was fairly adamant, down at the start, that he was going to jump out too. We both jumped off upsides but my one jumped and travelled well throughout the race.

“By the sound of the lads I think I had them all fairly well covered turning for home but you still have two to jump there. She put down the head and did it nicely.”