Slattery excels with Expert timing on Independent

Andy Slattery timed it just right when getting Independent Expert up close home to narrowly land the Limerick Racecourse Fillies & Mares Handicap.

Held up towards the rear of the five runners early on, the four-year-old looked to have plenty to do over a furlong out, as Mary Salome headed long time leader Silken Ladder and went for home. Operatic Artist went for a daring run up the inner back in third, as the eventual winner and second placed Lady Lunette bided their time in rear.

The whole complexion of the race changed dramatically inside the last furlong, as the door closed on Operatic Artist and the two at the back produced their challenge down the outside.

At the line, only a nose separated the front pair, with Lady Lunette just losing out to the Slattery trained filly.

Brian Slattery(trainers brother) said: "I thought Andrew had her back too far but he said 'no, that's the way to ride her'. He gave her a great ride.

"I rang the lads at home who were watching the race on TV and they were confident she had won but I wasn't so sure!

"She is in at the Curragh next weekend in the (Derby weekend €100,000) fillies' handicap so we'll see how she comes out of today."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes