McGill times it to perfection on Dollys Destination

Oran McGill showed great composure when delivering Dollys Destination with a well timed run to claim the Hotel Park St. Johann Tirol Handicap Hurdle at Navan.

Held up in the early stages of the race under her 7lb claimer, the winner made notable headway between the last two flights and was produced to lead at the last.

Despite a slightly slow jump at that final obstacle, the Gary McGill trained mare battled on bravely up the hill to hold off the late challenge of Gold Speed

The nine-year-old, who had won the corresponding race back in 2019, had hinted at a return to form when second at Punchestown last month.

Jockey Oran McGill said: "She was very good now, she likes to come off the pace and, once she starts picking off horses, she keeps at it for you.

"She was probably as good as ever today. She came off a bit of a break with a bit of a leg injury - she's still improving yet, I'd say.

"It's good to get around here on a big day.

"She was in good form in herself at home and Gary kept her fresh."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham