LINGER (left) and JJ Slevin kept on strongly after the last to win the Easyfix Handicap Hurdle at Galway© Photo Healy Racing
The well-backed favourite Linger (3s into 9/4 fav on course) stormed clear to win the second race of the opening evening at Galway, the Easyfix Handicap Hurdle, by six lengths.
He seemed to have a lot to do between the last two flights, but a gap opened on the approach to the last and the winner shot clear under J.J. Slevin to leave the the others fighting for minor money.
Roachdale House (20/1) was second, half a length ahead of the third Volatile Lady (18/1). The well-fancied Convara (8s into 7/2 on course) had every chance and came in fourth.
Once a gamble for the Fred Winter Handicap Hurdle at Chelltenham when pulled up, the winner has prospered on the Flat this year since joining Joseph O’Brien and looks very well-handicapped over hurdles on this evidence.
“He had a great position but then one of the front runners was struggling and they just took us back. But J.J. didn’t panic on him, he waited for the gap and he’s come good for him,” said winning trainer Joseph O’Brien.
"We freshened him up for this. We thought he was well handicapped and we've had this race in mind for a while.
“He's entered on the Flat here on Wednesday and will also be entered here over hurdles at the weekend. I’d say there’s a good chance he’ll be coming back (later in the week).
“Obviously having winners in Galway is everything so it’s great for Johnny Murphy and all the Rugby and Racing lads. There’s plenty of the lads here today so I’d say they’ll enjoy it and have a good night tonight."
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
