Irish winners on first day at Cheltenham

The opening day of the Cheltenham Festival got off to a good start for the Irish with Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh in top form, but there was no joy for Meath trianers or jockeys.

Douvan made virtually for an effortless victory in the Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy.

Annie Power made it third time lucky when she romped home in the Champion Hurdle ahead of Barry Geraghty on board My Tent Or Yours

Vroum Vroum Mag completed a first-day treble Mullins and Walsh with a convincing victory in the OLBG Mares' Hurdle from the Robbie Power-partnered Rock On The Moor which was second for trainer Jessica Harrington.

The action continues tomorrow and Nina Carberry will be hoping to win the Cross Country Chase with Josies Orders while trainer Noel Meade will run Road To Riches in the Ryanair Chase on Thursday.

Dunsany-trained Zabana will also run on Thursday for Andy Lynch in the opening race with Davy Russell on board. The Gavin Cromwell-trained Jer's Girl may also run on Thursday.