Cheltenham Festival's most successful ever jockey, Ruby Walsh, started this year's event with a victory in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle this afternoon.
The 34-year-old was on board the Willie Mullins-trained Vautour, which went off as the joint favourite alongside Irving.
However, while Irving never mounted a challenged, Vautour hit the front early on and only extended its advantage over the final two fences, setting a new course record in the process.
"This is what you ride for. This is for [injured jockey] Jason Maguire. It's a privilege to be here," Walsh told BBC Sport shortly after the race.
Josses Hill took second, while third place was claimed by Vaniteux.
