Rooster Booster lost his place at the head of the Smurfit Champion Hurdle market with most bookmakers despite winning the Agfa Hurdle. Of the leading layers, only Victor Chandler, at 4/1, kept Philip Hobbs's grey as favourite for the Championship after his half-length victory over Self Defense.
William Hill pushed the horse to 11-2 from 9-2 and cut Intersky Falcon half a point to become their new market leader at 7-2. Rooster Booster looked set for a straightforward success as he powered into the lead with Richard Johnson approaching the second last, but his supporters at 2-7 were holding their breath as he idled on the run-in.
However, Hobbs, recording his 100th success of the season, was undeterred. 'He has idled in front before and on this ground any horse is entitled to do that,' he said. 'He probably has won a shade comfortably. Going to the last he was going very easily, and when he was just left in front he's idled. But when Richard's asked him, he's found what's needed.'
Filed by James McMahon
