National Hunt racing’s great powers owner J.P. McManus and trainer Willie Mullins combined for further success today, as dependable Cheltenham-winner Dinoblue (4/7f) landed Punchestown’s Grade 2 Hanlon Concrete EBF Glencarraig Lady Francis Flood Mares Chase.

Ridden by Gold Cup-winner Mark Walsh, Dinoblue moved past stablemate Allegorie De Vassy entering the home straight and beat that tired rival eased-down by 35 lengths. Third-placed Brides Hill completed 30 lengths further behind, while Broomfield Bijou was pulled up.

It was McManus’s eighth Punchestown win and afterwards Mullins - with his 10th, reported “Dinoblue was very good today although I was hoping that Allegorie might get her own back after Cheltenham but it wasn’t going to be that way.

"Allegorie (a dual Grade 2 winner) is in foal to Jukebox Jury so she’s retired now. Dinoblue looks to be getting better and better and hopefully we have her for next season. I don’t see her going to stud for a while yet.”

McManus’ racing manager Frank Berry added “Dinoblue is a great bit of stuff and you could set your clock by her everyday. She jumped great and is just a pleasure to have around: she never lets you down.

“I’d say it’s her best year and she’s better than ever. She’ll have another season and will stick to those mares races. There is a good programme for them and it suits her well.”

Quotes from Gary Carson