Magnificent seven for Elliott

The Gordon Elliott show continued where it left off at Cheltenham this afternoon as the Longwood trainer brought his Festival tally to seven winners as Farclas held off Mc Adjudicator in the Triumph Hurdle. 
The grey, who had finished second on his last two starts, including in the Spring Juvenile Hurdle behind Mr Adjudicator last time, was keen early on, but came through to lead after the last in a sprint finish.
Stormy Ireland led the field for most of the way and was keen in the lead, with Sussex Ranger, who was one of the first off the bridle, and Sayo also close up.
Adonis winner Redicean travelled well but failed to pick up in the straight on his first start in the pink and purple Thompson colours, while Mr Adjudicator, who didn't jump with much fluency, was in last position for most of the journey. 
Apple’s Shakira, the well-backed 6-5 favourite, sat just behind the pace but couldn’t pick up, eventually finishing fourth.
Stormy Ireland, who took a heavy fall at the final flight, was unscathed.

Farclas' win was a fourth Festival win for young Kerry jockey Jack Kennedy.