Earp takes opener for Meade/Carberry

Noel Meade added to his long and successful training career at the Galway Festival, stretching back nearly 30 years, when taking the opening event at this year's meeting – the HotelMeyrick.ie & The ghotel.ie Novice Hurdle – with Virgil Earp

Paul Carberry made all on the 9/1 chance, quickening clear off the home bend and staying on well in the straight to beat Devil's Elbow (7/1, from 10's) by three and a half lengths.

The 13/8 favourite Sulwaan held every chance approaching the dip but could find no extra finishing a further half length back in third.

Meade said, “I was very disappointed with his last couple of runs on the Flat but maybe its the hurdles that make a difference to him. He jumps so well. He's got a couple of entries here later in the week, on the Flat and also the 2m5f handicap hurdle on Saturday. We'll see how he comes out of this.”

Presidential candidate Michael D Higgins was on hand to make the presentation to Meade, who is also the owner of the Fasliyev gelding.

Alan Magee