Raz takes Cork National as Pete runs out

After winning the Munster National at Limerick last month, the Dessie Hughes trained Raz De Maree added the Grade B Paddy Power Cork Grand National Handicap Chase to his collection this afternoon with Bryan Cooper in the saddle.

Running down to the last Outlaw Pete (14/1) was in front under Alan Crowe for John Halley with the chestnut winner coming with his challenge in second.

With the result far from decided Outlaw Pete ran out approaching the last leaving Raz De Maree (11/2) come home an easy nine length winner from the 4/1 favourite Bundle Of Fun in second under Ruby Walsh for Willie Mullins.

The John Hanlon trained Ardglen ran a fine race to finish a further eight and a half lengths back in third under Danny Mullins at 33/1 while front running Zardsky was a further seven and a half lengths back in fourth under Adrian Heskin for Tom Nagle at 15/2 (backed from 16/1 with Paddy Powers).

Dessie Hughes said afterwards: "He was given a good ride again today. We left him alone and rode him more patiently today. I don’t know whether we would have won it but we won’t give it back!

"The Becher Chase at Aintree is his next target. A bit more time would be nice but I think he will jump around those Aintree fences. Even though he is a handy horse, he is a fabulous jumper."

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)