Smiles ahead..

Emotional scenes as late rider’s irlfriend collects race trophy

- ROBERT HYNES

"SOMEONE very special" was smiling down on the Cheltenham Festival yesterday as two horses forever associated with Michael O'Sullivan won.

Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty, who the hugely popular young jockey landed a double on at Prestbury Park two years ago, powered to victory in the Champion Chase and Grand Annual respectively.

There were emotional scenes at Cheltenham once again as the Barry Connnell-trained Marine Nationale landed the day two feature under Wexford jockey Sean Flanagan at odds of 5/1.

"It's very poignant and it's very raw, the whole thing with Michael over the last three or four weeks has been absolutely horrible and my thoughts and prayers are with the family, his friends and his girlfriend," said Connell.

"I think this is hopefully a fitting tribute to him." The trainer added: "He started as a 7lb claimer with us and I asked him to go pro, he ended up winning three Grade Ones as a claimer, leading rider on the first day [of the 2023 Cheltenham Festival] and leading conditional.

"I've asked some of the racing historians and I don't think they can find anyone else who did all that.

"It's an absolute tragedy that he's left us, but he has a record he can be really proud of. He achieved more in his lifetime than a lot of riders who get to ride for a lot longer achieve.

"I'd like to dedicate this win to Michael and his girlfriend Charlotte, who is here.

"Our hearts go out to all his and his friends and his girlfamily friend, racing is a great community and gets behind.