Game Mahler Mare Completes Listed Chase Double

The talented Annie Mc (7m Mahler - Classic Mari, by Classic Cliché) further boosted her Cheltenham Festival claims when justifying favouritism in the Listed Lady Protectress Mares’ Chase at Warwick.

Last seen winning a similar contest by 16 lengths, the Jonjo O’Neill-trained bay was sent off favourite under Jonjo O’Neill Junior, who rode her to track the leader. Ridden approaching the second last, she led at the final fence and ran on well in the soft ground to win by five and a half lengths, her rivals strung out behind her.

Owned by the Coral Champions Club, Annie Mc is unbeaten against her own sex over fences, whilst her hurdling exploits include a Grade 2 victory. Bred by Jay Kavanagh, the daughter of Mahler began her career with Sean Doyle, for whom she finished second twice, including against the later top-class Honeysuckle.