Mandarin Monarch returns to reign at Navan Dual-purpose performer Mandarin Monarch (22/1 from 40s before the off) registered his ninth career success in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. The 9-year-old, having his first start since last year’s Punchestown Festival, raced in mid-division before moving up to challenge on the outer entering the straight. Kept wide for better ground by Dillon Maxwell, the winner led after three out and stretched away after the last to beat Noble Birth and Mutadaawel by five lengths and a head. This was a fourth win over hurdles, to go with five on the Flat, for the Manduro gelding. Winning trainer Andrew McNamara said: “It was a pleasant surprise. Some of the syndicate are here but some aren't and I was sending them a message saying with the ground the way it is I was hoping he wouldn't get too tired and I was telling Dillon to look after him. “He's been a great servant. He won once before the lads got him and that's eight he's won now for them. “He's a very genuine horse. We had no year at all with him last year as he had a couple of small injuries and only ran once in Punchestown. “First time back, having had only one run last season, I was sure he'd take the run but we'll take it. “Originally he didn't handle softer ground at all. The lads are from Galway but the year before he ran a cracker and was second on heavy ground there. “He definitely goes on good ground and will be kept going now as he's shoving on in years.” Quotes from Gary Carson
