Hovering hits target

Paul Carberry delivered sole British raider Hovering with a well-timed run to land the G.P.T. Sligo Novice Hurdle – the opening race of the 2007 Galway Festival.

Mick Quinlan’s 9-1 chance, who was making her debut over timber, took up a prominent position early and tracked long-time leader and eventual runner-up Mrs Diniver into the straight.

While that Liam Roche-trained filly set down to scrap out the result with 4-5 favourite Lisselan Eagle and Galilean, Carberry bided his time and waited until after the last before making his challenge.

Once he asked his mount to go about her business, Hovering responded instantly and surged past to win by an authoritative two and a half lengths.

Mrs Diniver proved most game in holding on for second, while Lisselan Eagle plugged away for third.