Carberry wins with Aimatov at Fairyhouse

Paul Carberry had his first winner since returning from injury with a smooth victory on Aimatov (9-4f) in the Rathbarry & Glenview Studs Festival Novice Hurdle.

Coming back only on Saturday after being sidelined for over a month with a foot injury incurred at home, Carberry enjoyed a dream ride on Noel Meade’s charge.

After stalking the leaders in the early stages, Aimatov made smooth headway to lead two out and stormed clear of Davorin to win by five and a half lengths.

Meade said: “He was rated 10lb higher than my other two (Casey Jones and Leading Run) in the race and I felt the ground was to blame at Navan last time not the trip.

“He quickened up very well and I always thought he was a fair horse.

“He’ll probably go to Punchestown for the Grade One two-and-a-half-mile race (Land Rover Champion Novice Hurdle) and he’s shown that he goes on this ground.

“But if conditions are similar there it’s unlikely Aran Concerto would join him.”