Smullen and Weld double up with Rose

Magnolia Rose ran out a cosy winner of the 1m5f maiden at Navan to give Pat Smullen and Dermot Weld a double on today's card. Treasure Chest cut out the running in the five runner contesting with 11/10 favourite Ex Patriot moving up to challenge two-and-a-half furlongs from home.

The market leader failed to pick when asked a question passing the two pole, however, and Magnolia Rose soon emerged as the danger as she travelled sweetly in behind.

Smullen sent her into the lead over a furlong from home and she soon settled matters, going on for a comfortable three-and-a-quarter length success at odds of 2/1.

The winner had been a fine second on her only other appearance over course and distance back in May.

"It probably wasn't the best of maidens but she did it nicely. She will go for a handicap, and should be a better filly next year,” said Weld.

(Quotes by Alan Magee)