Both Michael O'Sullivan and Barry Connell were lost for words after shocking Facile Vega in the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle.
The Willie Mullins-trained horse was expected by many to shake off last month's disappointing show at the Dublin Racing Festival with a win in the Cheltenham opener, but a mistake at the last gave O'Sullivan the win aboard Marine Nationale.
The win was O'Sullivan's first at the festival, and after the race, he tried to convey his feelings to ITV Racing's Matt Chapman. Follow live Cheltenham updates and results in our blog.
"Unbelievable," said an emotional O'Sullivan, "A massive relief. I’m so, so lucky to get on this horse.
"We’re having an amazing season.
"The horse is just incredible. I turned in there and I wasn’t sure what I was holding on to but, by God, he won easily.
"Days like these are what I’ve been dreaming of since I was riding ponies. All my family have been so supportive of me."
In the parade ring, trainer and owner Barry Connell spoke glowingly of his prized horse and jockey.
"I put my neck above the parapet about six months ago when I said this horse was a weapon," said Connell.
"Everything worked out according to plan. We are coming back here for a double tomorrow. Michael O’Sullivan is unreal. He’s a future star."
