Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty each claimed emotional wins on the Cheltenham Pageant two years after profitable right here for jockey Michael O’Sullivan, who died in a fall final month.
First, Marine Nationale, ridden by Sean Flanagan for owner-trainer Barry Connell, gained a dramatic Queen Mom Champion Chase by 18 lengths from favorite Jonbon, whose progress was halted by a leaping mistake.
Then the Cian Collins-trained Jazzy Matty, beneath Danny Gilligan, landed the Grand Annual Chase.
Marine Nationale had gained the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle two years in the past in the identical yellow and blue colors for O’Sullivan, who died aged 24 following his accidents at Thurles Racecourse.
“I am simply the person on him in the present day, Michael made him what he’s,” stated Flanagan.
“It is massively emotional for lots of causes. His household discover it very exhausting. Jockeys in Eire, England and all over the world have been beneath a cloud within the final couple of weeks.”
Jonbon, skilled by Nicky Henderson went into the race with 17 wins from 20 begins however his three defeats had come at Cheltenham and his likelihood disappeared with a jolting mistake on the far facet of the course the place jockey Nico de Boinville did effectively to remain on board.
Two-time earlier champion Energumene travelled effectively earlier than fading and it was a battle between Quilixios and Marine Nationale earlier than Quilixious fell on the remaining fence. That left Marine Nationale within the clear to assert victory.
“I might prefer to say it’s extremely poignant and really uncooked, the entire thing with Michael over the past three or 4 weeks has been horrible, horrible,” stated O’Connell.
“My ideas and prayers are along with his household and his girlfriend, Charlotte, is right here and was with us saddling up the horse. Everyone in racing has come collectively for Michael and I hope it is a becoming tribute to him.”
O’Sullivan gained the Fred Winter Hurdle on Jazzy Matty for coach Gordon Elliott in 2023.
Gilligan stated: “I feel everyone knows there’s somebody very particular trying down on this.”
