Warrnambool Carnival Day 3 Punters Picture: Wayne Ludbey

It was a dashing display by the eight-year-old mare, who led throughout to defeat No Song No Supper and I’ll’Iva’alf.

It gave jockey John Allen his seventh winner for the carnival, while trainer Ciaron Maher won his fourth Grand Annual.

Going to the lead early, jockey of the carnival Allen allowed Regina Coeli to bound along handsomely well in front of the field.

Last year’s winner No Song No Supper rallied late to close on the brave mare but she would not be denied. Regina Coeli also won the 2015 Grand Annual. Last year she finished sixth.

There were two casualties in the 5500m marathon.

Lord Of The Song lost his jockey Brad McLean as the field began to climb up Brierly the second occasion and Slowpoke Rodiguez parted company with jockey Fannin at the final fence.

The horses appeared unscathed by the incidents and the two jockeys are believed to be in a satisfactory condition.

MORE TO COME

Standing room only as punters gather for the running of the iconic Grand Annual Steeplechase. Picture: Wayne LudbeySource:News Corp Australia

Originally published as Mighty mare emulates brother with GA double