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Maunganui rounds off a fine day for the Cullens

Maunganui with Annalise Cullen and her mother Ann-Marie Maunganui with Annalise Cullen and her mother Ann-Marie
© Photo Healy Racing

Annalise Cullen rode her third winner, and second in the last three days, as 22/1 chance Maunganui won the concluding NavanRacecourse.ie Handicap (45-65). Divine Celt (40/1) looked to be travelling best when hitting the front a furlong and a half out, but was soon joined by the winner and a good tussle ensued.

Maunganui just edged ahead in the closing stages to score by a neck, with a further five lengths back to the 5/1 favourite Muntahez in third.

The winner had won twice for previous trainer Jarlath Fahey, and was completing an across-the-cards double for Denis Cullen, who had earlier been on the mark at Punchestown.

Ann-Marie Cullen, the winning rider’s mother and wife of the winning trainer, said: “I'm delighted. He's been a bit frustrating and is a tricky enough ride as he has a little bit of a mind of his own.

“I thought she did really well on him, from a wide draw as well. I don't think he particularly likes to be in between horses.

“That's her third winner and I'm delighted for her.

“I believe Denis O'Regan gave She'stherightone a great ride in Punchestown, I didn't see it.”

Quotes from Gary Carson

1st
22/1
Tote €30.20 €5.80
2nd
nk
40/1
€11.00
3rd
5L
5/1Fav
€1.10
4th
1.75L
18/1
€4.70
About Mark Nunan
Mark has followed racing since he was a teenager and worked for many years as a broadcaster with the Irish version of Racecall. He joined the Press Association in 2019 and is also a contributor to the Racing Post. A native of Kildare, he now lives in Sligo.