Mullins tops as Oxx and McDonogh win

Willie Mullins was confirmed as the leading trainer at Galway 2016 when Dermot Weld's favourite Mounira failed to figure in the Kenny Galway European Breeders Fund Fillies Maiden. Declan McDonogh continued a terrific week at Ballybrit by winning on John Oxx's Nonetheless in the penultimate mile and a half heat.

On outing number three Nonetheless (5/2) led a furlong out and the daughter of Fastnet Rock went on to account for staying on Remarkable Lady by a length and three parts.

"She had a good run last time in a maiden at the Curragh. She had a bit of a delayed preparation before that race and came on from it," commented Oxx.

"She has a turn of foot and stays well which is a combination you need at Galway. She is a very genuine and straight-forward filly. There are a lot of black type winners from New Zealand in her pedigree.

"Declan is having a good week, and it's hard to get five winners with so many jump races."

Willie Mullins was confirmed as the top trainer 58pts (9 winners), with Dermot Weld 51pts (6 winners before final race). First time since Aidan O'Brien in 1997 that Dermot Weld has not been top trainer at Galway. (5pts for win, 3pts for second, 1pt for third).

Ruby Walsh (7 winners) top National Hunt rider, and Pat Smullen (6 winners) top Flat jockey.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Mounira, trained by D. K. Weld, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

(AM & EM)