Having also won the last four renewals of the World Hurdle at Cheltenham, the Andy Stewart-owned gelding rewarded punters who took the 2-9 on offer about the favourite.

Ruby Walsh settled the superstar in third position and he travelled well through the early stages.

When Restless Harry fell early on the second circuit and brought down Won In The Dark, followed by the fall of Smad Place, his task was made easier, should he have needed it.

Crack Away Jack travelled well to challenge but failed like so many before him and eventually trailed in well beaten in second.

Stewart said: "He seemed to be idling a little in front. Alan King's horse (Smad Place) was right behind us until unfortunately he came to grief. I was glad to see them all get up.

"We take every race as it comes and we are totally flattered by the reception he has been given by everyone here. He hasn't had an off-day since unseating in the Hennessy a few years ago.

"Undoubtedly (this win means the most), this is absolutely marvellous.

"Each win is very precious, but obviously to do 17 and go into the record books is very precious to us.

"It's been very flattering. People have been coming up for my autograph - he's more newsworthy than I am, but it's a privilege.

"Next year he'll go for the same programme and the Cleeve Hurdle as well."