Hass takes Galway opener

Jim Gorman’s Hassanali landed the first blow for the bookmakers at the Galway Festival when springing a 20-1 surprise in the G.P.T. Sligo Novice Hurdle.

Ridden by David Casey, he looked booked for second in the home straight as Mervyn Torrens’ Dancera, who had jumped for fun throughout, appeared to have the race in the bag.

However, as Dancera began to tire under 7lb claimer Andrew Thornton he made a complete hash of the final flight, handing the initiative to Hassanali who went on to win by two lengths. Arviz finished well to take third.

“I’m not surprised he won, despite his price. The lads in yard thought he’d win,” said Gorman.

“He’s disappointed on soft ground but back on good ground he liked it today.

“David gave him a peach of a ride and I couldn’t have written the script any better.”