[Solved] How do I win race against Hovis in Freelancer?

I'm about ready to break my keyboard, I've raced Hovis about 20times, and can't beat him. I had to sell my heavy fighter, and now have a clydsdale freighter(armed to the teeth), If I dont beat this guy, i dont get clues about Quintain, so I really need some help on this, and at this point, I'm not above using cheat if you know any.

God, i was hoping no one would say that, I've got the clydsdale fully armed, with turrets and missiles, will i loose my turrets and missile launchers?

When you trade in your ship you have the option to not sell any of your gear, for the race just use a basically naked light fighter and get your old ship back after you win the race.

Thanks Kaitheus and Vampyrbyte, I'm gonna keep at it, but i do have another question, what planet can i buy another heavy fighter in, before i met Hovis, I tried to fly to planet los angeles to trade my freighter for a heavy fighter, but in liberty territory i get attacked immediately.

I beat Hovis, thanks Kaitheus, Vampyrebyte, you guys rock, having been able to stop to buy a ship on a mission, this game intense, now im kinda glad i had a fight with my woman so i can play,lol

Thanks