The Cheltenham roar had barely faded when Old Park Star announced himself as the new hero of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, surging through late to deliver a dream start for favourite backers and home supporters alike.

Sent off a solid 15/8 favourite, Nicky Henderson’s gelding was forced to thread his way through a wall of horses turning for home, briefly looking short of room before Nico de Boinville angled him out for a clear run. Once in the open, Old Park Star lengthened powerfully, reeling in long-time leader Sober Glory and asserting on the climb to the line.

The result was a resounding 1-2-3-4 for the British, a statement of intent at the start of the Festival. Sober Glory, heavily backed from double-figure odds into 5/1, had tried to make all and still held a narrow advantage at the last, only to blunder and lose vital momentum. He rallied bravely but was collared late, with Mydaddypaddy staying on for third and outsider Baron Noir snatching fourth at 33/1.

Henderson, already the dominant figure of so many opening days at Cheltenham, hailed Old Park Star’s courage in the heat of battle, emphasising how tough the race had become in the closing stages. The trainer’s delight was amplified by the wider narrative: England striking first in front of a packed grandstand, with the home team sweeping the places in the traditional curtain-raiser.

The Supreme had been billed as one of the most open in years. Mighty Park, the subject of bullish reports from Ireland, drifted in the market alongside El Cairos, whose raw speed had tempted many pundits despite an erratic profile. Both failed to land a blow when it mattered, underlining the depth and intensity of the contest rather than any lack of ability.

Earlier, the withdrawal of Leader d’Allier reshaped the race, prompting a late switch of mounts for Paul Townend, who climbed aboard Too Bossy For Us. That tactical reshuffle only added to the sense of intrigue as the field cantered to post under a wall of noise.

By the time Old Park Star crossed the line, there was no doubt about the new standard-bearer for this novice generation. On a day rich with expectation, the favourite delivered, and the Festival was truly underway.