EMOTIONAL fans declared that Marine Nationale’s sensational win at Cheltenham was “written in the stars”.
The eight-year-old upset the odds to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase on day two at Prestbury Park.
The late Michael O’Sullivan won at the Festival with the same horse two years ago[/caption]
It came two years after Marine Nationale had Michael O’Sullivan on board for his biggest win in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.
That was part of a Festival double for the Cork jockey, who also won with Jazzy Matty that same week.
The 24-year-old tragically died last month, giving Cheltenham a poignant feel.
And after Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty BOTH won back-to-back, fans took to social media to declare that it was “written in the stars”.
One said: “Had three separate convo’s today about this weird ‘divine’ feeling I had that something special would happen with Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty.
“I had goosebumps when the latter stuck his neck out to get home. Something very special happened today”
A second said: “Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty winning at Cheltenham, Micheal O’Sullivan will be looking down with a massive smile on his face.
“Certainly is a special place.”
RacingTV’s Jess Stafford posted: “This is why horse racing is so special
“The fact they were even running on the same day was 1 thing but for Michael’s two Cheltenham winners MarineNationale & Jazzy Matty both to win is something out of the ordinary.
“He lifted them home”
A fourth said: “It was written in the stars that MarineNationale would win after the untimely passing of Michael O’Sullivan
“Sport is all about fairytales”
And a fifth commented: “Written in the stars for Marine Nationale to win. Massive shame for Jonbon, but a really fitting result there.
“Something for Michael O’Sullivan’s family to smile about.”
There were emotional scenes when Marine Nationale returned to the winner’s enclosure.
Michael’s girlfriend Charlotte gave jockey Sean Flanagan a huge and heartfelt hug.
And trainer Barry Connell said he hopes it serves a fitting tribute to the late rider.
He said: “I would like to say it is very poignant, it is very raw.
“The whole thing with Michael over the last three or four weeks has been absolutely horrible, horrible, and my thoughts are with the family.
“His friends, Charlotte his girlfriend is here. She was with us saddling up the horse.
“Everybody in racing…it is a great community and everybody has come together for Michael. This is hopefully a fitting tribute to him.”
