Min, already favourite for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle in March without even winning a race, strengthened his position at the head of the betting after making a breathtaking Irish debut in the Festival Hospitality On Sale Maiden Hurdle.
Min, already favourite for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle in March without even winning a race, strengthened his position at the head of the betting after making a breathtaking Irish debut in the Festival Hospitality On Sale Maiden Hurdle.
Sent off the 4-11 favourite, Ruby Walsh felt the pace was not fast enough for the Rich Ricci-owned youngster and sent him to the front at halfway.
From there he gradually pulled further and further clear in the home straight, under minimal urgings, and strolled to a 14-length victory from Gurteen, who won a point-to-point on his only previous experience.
Bookmakers were quick to take evasive action, with Betfred making him their 7-1 favourite from 12s for the Supreme. BetVictor went just 5-1.
Beforehand Willie Mullins had stated he hoped the rumours about how good Min was carried some substance.
"The rumours are true!" said Mullins.
"That was two and a quarter miles and he could easily go back to two miles, and I would have no fear of going two and a half.
"He looks to have plenty of gears as I thought they were going a good gallop and yet he took off around halfway.
"He jumped very well for a horse having his first run on an Irish racecourse, and we will plan for something in the New Year.
"The first race that comes to mind is the race that Vautour and Douvan won here next month (Grade Two Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle)."