Raz De Maree, blue, in contention in the Munster National© Photo Healy Racing
Raz De Maree was given a patient ride by Bryan Cooper to land the Grade A Munster National at Limerick for Dessie Hughes.
The late money came for Cooper’s mount as the seven-year-old was backed in to 7/1 from 10/1 at the track.
Cooper allowed his charge to creep into contention and that he did as he arrived at the second last in a group of four who had the race at their mercy.
From that fence on though he ploughed through the mud to prevail by six and a half lengths from Quietly Fancied (16/1) who was prominent throughout and who picked up the lead from Mr Cracker after a circuit. Questions Answered the 5/1 joint favourite, was edged into third by a head as 14 horses went to post for the valuable 80,000 euro prize fund.
Trainer Dessie Hughes said: “That’s my first time winning the race and it was my birthday during the week. We were hoping there would be a good three mile chase in him as he stays so well.
“He’s small, but he’s a good lepper and a natural jumper. He got beaten in the Midlands National at Kilbeggan under a big weight and 10 stone 4 suited him better.
“He ran ordinary in Galway on heavy ground. He couldn’t go on it. He wouldn’t have wanted the ground any worse. The Troytown is a possibility.”
Four horses were pulled up – Mr Cracker, Cross Appeal (the other 5/1 joint favourite), Qhilimar and Liberty Counsel - while three unshipped their riders; Saddlers Storm Caim Hill and Four Commanders
(On course reporting by Thomas Weekes)
