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Michael Graham

Michael Graham

Raz De Maree takes Munster National

Sun 14th Oct 2012, 17:05

Raz De Maree, blue, in contention in the Munster NationalRaz 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)

About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.