Former Taoiseach Brian Cowen and current Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett were delighted visitors to the winners' enclosure at Cork today as their Tulsa Jack running in the colours of the Grand Alliance Racing Club, landed the featured Paddy Power Cork Grand National.

Ridden by Jonathan Moore, Tulsa Jack went clear of 11 rivals to score a 12 lengths success over Clar Na Mionn

Meade was at Naas but Fine Gael T.D. Sean Barrett later commented "it gives us great pleasure and it is so special to win the Cork National. The syndicate (Grand Alliance Racing Club) all drink in the Members Bar (of the Dail) and there are a few members of Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and one from the P.D.s!

"Tulsa Jack fell on his first two races over fences but has been a fantastic servant and is still only six years of age. It is an incredible compliment to his great trainer that he this is our 26th winner from only four horses and his array of jockeys keeps getting better.

"It gives us great pleasure to do something for the bloodstock industry and to help promote the sport."

Twenty one year old Moore, recording his biggest success, later commented "he jumped like a buck and while he did it well, idled in front. I've been based with Noel Meade since the start of August and that's my first winner for him on my third ride."

By Tom Weekes