The course is covered over to prevent it from freezing this morning.

Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

They’re taken off.

Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Credit: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Clerk of the course Simon Claisse makes his way out to make his inspection.

Credit: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Despite concerns over the ground, Day 1 gets the go-ahead but is put back by 35 minutes with the Cross County rescheduled for Thursday.

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No, Davy Russell is not about to rob a bank on horseback.

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It’s a big day for the Irish but Athlone native Clive McCormack is here to see  one horse in particular.

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Jayo is here with Michael Galvin…

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So is Fergus McFadden.

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Ruby Walsh gets off to a flyer – taking the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle on Champagne Fever.

Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Then he takes the Champion Hurdle with Hurricane Fly.

Credit: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

And was a treble for Ruby and Willie Mullins with Quevega (centre) in the Mares’ Hurdle

Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

There was also a win for Barry Geraghty and Simonsig in the Racing Post Arkle Challenge

Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

There were bets placed…

Credit: Tim Ireland/PA Wire/Press Association Images

…And pints had.

Credit: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

But they’ll do it all again tomorrow. Valerie Forde from Galway.

Credit: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Ruby Tuesday: Hurricane storms to Champion Hurdle victory

As it happened: Cheltenham Festival: Day 1