Novarov survives scare to score

Novarov survived a last flight scare to run out a comprehensive winner of the Tote Jackpot Handicap Hurdle at Galway.

David Splaine tracked the leaders throughout in the three-mile contest before taking closer order five from home on the 9/2 favourite.

The John O'Shea-trained gelding took over from long-time leader Excellent As Usual before the second last and kicked for home after the penultimate flight.

He soon poached a few lengths from his rivals and was in control turning for home.

Splaine steadied his mount into the last but he got it wrong and blundered through the flight.

It didn't effect his momentum, however, as he galloped on strongly in the closing stages for a eight-and-a-half length success. Bondage stayed on best of the chasing pack to claim the runner-up spot.

"Our hearts were in our mouths at the last," admitted O'Shea afterwards.

"He made a bit of a mistake and on another day he could have fallen. Luck was on our side and he stayed going.

"He's just a horse with endless stamina and he's by a great sire in Sholokhov.

"It's great for Irish breeding that Rathbarry were able to buy him back from Germany.

"I think he'll be a big addition to Irish National Hunt racing. They are tough and stay and that's what you want in this game.

"We were only hopeful more than confident and I was a bit worried that the ground might be a bit gluey on his first run after a break.

"He finished second to two real good horses in Whatever Jacksays and Dedigout on his last two runs so on that form he had to have a chance.

"I think he's a horse that could develop into Pertemps horse for Cheltenham and he has the scope to jump fences."

Winning owner Sarah Folan, hails from Lucan in Co Dublin, and added afterwards:-

"It's a dream come true and I'm absolutely delighted. I thought he was nearly going to fall at the last.

"We've been praying for rain all week but it's nice to see the sunshine now. My grandad bought him and went out to Germany with John to buy him.

"He's had a lot of seconds and we're thrilled today."

It was the second winner of the week for Splaine, who had also scored on Face Value yesterday.

(On course reporting by Vincent Finegan)