Movingswiftlyalong well named in Sligo

Movingswiftlyalong and Paddy Kennedy toughed it out best to get off the mark in Sligo’s extended two and a half mile maiden hurdle. Sparky Stowaway the 6/4 favourite, attempted to make all but a mistake two out saw his goose cooked as Movingswiftlyalong lived up to her name to assume the lead approaching the home bend.

She was challenged on the run to the last by Full Batten (7/1) but fended him off in the closing stages to take the victory by half a length at 11/4.

Sparky Stowaway came in nine and a half lengths further back in third.

Handler Shane Ryder said: “She's tiny but she's tough as nails. She has shown bits of ability.

“Fair play to HRI for putting on these races because without them she wouldn't be winning a maiden hurdle.

“She's had four quick runs now. Who knows how good she is but she's the winner of a maiden hurdle tonight anyway and the owner is delighted so that's all that matters.

“The ground was my worry coming up, would she handle it with the size of her and 11 stone. Being by Beneficial you wouldn't worry but the size of her was my big concern. She proved me wrong anyway.

“We'll see what the handicapper does. I thought she was a summer mare and I don't think she'll be able to compete with proper National Hunt horses on winter ground. That might be it until next spring.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson