Latest from Horse & Hound in Willie-mullins

Dual Queen Mother Champion Chase star bows out: ‘He was a joy and will be hard to replace’

Lucy Elder — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:58:09 +0000

Six-time Grade One winner Energumene has retired aged 12, after finishing third behind his victorious stablemate Il Etait Temps in the Punchestown Champion Chase on Tuesday (28 April).

Energumene started his career in a British point-to-point under the guidance of the Laceys before joining top Irish trainer Willie Mullins. He went on to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival and the Punchestown Champion Chase in both 2022 and 2023.

In all, the Denham Red gelding, owned by Tony Bloom, won 14 of his 23 races under Rules and more than £1.2m prize money.

His final win was the Underwriting Exchange Fairyhouse Fairyhouse Chase on 6 April.

“He gave us a great day out at Fairyhouse the last day, he rolled back the years,” Mr Mullins told Racing TV, following Energumene’s final start in the William Hill-sponsored Champion Chase at Punchestown.

He said the ground was too dry for him, but that he “still ran a great race”.

Mr Mullins named Energumene’s first Champion Chase win at Cheltenham as his favourite memory with the horse and added: “He’s a huge big horse, a strong horse, probably not one you’d think would be a Champion Chaser looking at the size of him – you’d think he might be more a three-mile chaser. The fact that he had that speed and ability to jump marked him out.”

Jockey Paul Townend, who was in the saddle for the majority of Energumene’s races, also paid tribute to the horse on Racing TV.

“He was a star of a horse,” he said. “He was a joy and will be hard to replace.”

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Aintree great channels Red Rum to reclaim Grand National title: ‘He’ll gallop to the end of the world for you’

Lucy Elder — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 16:26:16 +0000

I Am Maximus has won the 2026 Randox Grand National – becoming the first horse to regain the title since the great Red Rum.

The Willie Mullins-trained 10-year-old carried top weight of 11st 12lb and led home a dominant hand for owner JP McManus, who owned three of the first four over the finish line.

I Am Maxiumus closed in on leader Jordans at the elbow, leaving him in his slipstream as he powered up the run-in to win in emphatic style.

“He will gallop to the end of the world for you,” said winning jockey Paul Townend, who was also in the saddle for the horse’s first Grand National win in 2024 and when he finished runner-up in last year’s race.

“He’s so good; he has such an engine. It’s a privilege to have anything to do with him, what a horse.”

Mullins had nine potential contenders runners in the race – down to eight by the time they lined up following the withdrawal of defending champion Nick Rockett – but Townend only ever had eyes for I Am Maxiumus.

“Obviously Grangeclare West’s preparation was really good in the Bobbyjo, which I won on Nick Rockett in 2025 and who then came here last year and beat me, but this lad wasn’t telling me not to ride him, so I couldn’t not ride him,” he said.

Mullins, who today equalled Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell’s record of saddling four Grand National winners, hinted that we may see him in next year’s race.

“Hopefully I’ll be here, and hopefully I Am Maximus will be here. I think JP is very keen on I Am Maximus for the National, he says he loves the place, he jumps the fences well, we’ve got a great team with Paul, so hopefully we are all here next year,” he said.

“I imagine JP won’t hear of anything else, so there’ll be this little game going on – I’ll stick him in the Gold Cup, JP will take him out and I’ll stick him back in and he’ll take him out, so that’s what was happening this year. And he said, ‘No, we’re going to skip the Gold Cup’, and it proved so right.”

“Anyone would be emotional. Wow. It was a good call from JP – I wanted to go for the Gold Cup and he said, ‘We’re going to stay for Aintree’, as he felt he was well handicapped. Paul just executed it so well, didn’t he?

“It’s very hard [to win off top weight], but maybe the modern day National is changing and we have to look at it differently.

“It’s the first race we all grew up watching and the race we aspire to win when we go into racing. It’s a race you grow up watching and want to be a part of, just to have a runner is a tremendous sensation and for our owners – just to be involved and here at Aintree is great.”

It’s 49 years since Red Rum regained the title he won in 1973 and 1974, a feat that until now, only two others had achieved – both in the Victorian era. The Lamb, who won in 1868 and 1871, and Manifesto, the winner of the 1897 and 1899 editions.

I Am Maximus’s greatness is clear cut. It’s also on his own terms. His quirks are a part of his strength; the team around him work with that mercurial streak and so he is able to shine on the biggest stage of all. There will be ice-cream for fans at his home-coming celebrations, just don’t ask him for a selfie.

“He will eat you without salt. He is a character – don’t stand in his way!” said Mullins, with a smile.

“When he won the Irish National I said to Paul, whatever you do don’t come off the inside, and the horse refused to race on the inside. After two miles Paul said, sod this and went to the outside. The minute the horse went to the outside he had his ears pricked and he liked it. But he’s by Authorized, and horses by Authorized have that little bit of a quirk in them. You could call it immaturity, whatever, but they’re very good – but they have that quirk. You just don’t want to annoy him – you want to get on his right side.”

‘He ran a blinder’

Fellow McManus horse Iroko, ridden by Jonjo O’Neill Jr, finished second for local trainers Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriro, who are also eyeing a return for next year’s race with their star.

“The build-up to this has been so intense, I think being local… I burst into tears when he got to the line, I felt like a pressure cooker being released,” said Greenall.

Guerriro added: “I’m very proud of him, he’s run a blinder. He finished fourth last year when I Am Maximus was second and he’s probably been beaten a similar distance today.

“We’ll come back and win it next year. He’s got even more experience now and probably his Cheltenham prep wasn’t the best. I Am Maximus will be another year older and we are only eight. It wasn’t to be today, but we’ll win it one day.”

Joseph O’Brien-trained Jordans was third, piloted by Ben Jones. Mr McManus also scooped fourth place with Johnnywho, ridden by Richie McLernon and trained by Jonjo O’Neill Sr.

Randox Grand National 2026 result: full finishing order

Position, horse, jockey, trainer

1 I Am Maximus, Paul Townend, Willie Mullins

2 Iroko, Jonjo O’Neill Jr, Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero

3 Jordans, Ben Jones, Joseph O’Brien

4 Johnnywho, Richie McLernon, Jonjo and A.J. O’Neill

5 High Class Hero, James Bowen, Willie Mullins

6 Favori De Champdou, Danny Gilligan, Gordon Elliott

7 Final Orders, Conor Stone-Walsh, Gavin Cromwell

8 Champ Kiely, Danny Mullins, Willie Mullins

9 Three Card Brag, Jordan Gainford, Gordon Elliott

10 Monty’s Star, Darragh O’Keeffe, Henry de Bromhead

11 Answer To Kayf, John Shinnick, Terence O’Brien

12 Gorgeous Tom, Sean Flanagan, Henry de Bromhead

14 Haiti Couleurs, Sean Bowen, Rebecca Curtis

15 Twig, Beau Morgan, Ben Pauling

16 Firefox, Keith Donoghue, Gordon Elliott

Non-finishers

Lecky Watson (pulled up 29th fence), Spanish Harlem (pulled up before 27th fence), The Real Whacker (pulled up before 13th fence), Amirite (pulled up before 29th fence), Banbridge (unseated rider 15th fence), Beauport (unseated rider 19th fence), Captain Cody (unseated rider 27th fence), Grangeclare West (unseated rider first fence), Jagwar (unseated rider 19th fence), Oscars Brother (unseated rider 15th fence), Perceval Legallois (unseated rider 27th fence), Gerri Colombe (fell seventh fence), Marble Sands (fell 18th fence), Mr Vango (fell sixth fence), Panic Attack (fell third fence), Quai De Bourbon (fell second fence), Stellar Story (fell 19th fence), Top Of The Bill (fell 30th fence).

Winning time: 9 minutes 9.68 seconds

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Meet Willie Mullins’ key Cheltenham Festival 2026 contenders: ‘This horse still has the ability to win the Gold Cup’

Martha Terry — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:05:22 +0000

The 19-time Irish champion jumps trainer Willie Mullins is set to bring a strong hand of Cheltenham Festival runners to Prestbury Park for the 2026 meeting (10–13 March).

Willie Mullins, who is also the reigning UK champion trainer, is the most successful in the history of the Cheltenham Festival with a record 113 winners to his credit since landing the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 1995 with Tourist Attraction. He has been leading trainer there 12 times.

Willie tallied 10 trophies at Prestbury Park last year – his equal best season with 2022. His Ryanair Chase winner Fact To File spearheaded his string, while his dual Boodles Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs fought valiantly for a hat-trick but was denied by Inothewayurthinking.

Several of the stables’ winners from last year have entries this time, including Kopek Des Bordes, Lossiemouth, Lecky Watson, Fact To File, Poniros and Kargese.

So how does Willie Mullins rate his key runners at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival? This is what he had to say about just some of his potential contenders when he attended a press briefing in his local town, Bagenalstown, at an event organised by The Jockey Club.

Despite being long odds-on to regain his leading trainer title, he played down expectations.

“I’m always fascinated when people say to me, ‘how many this year, Willie?’” he said. “People expect us to have six, seven, eight or 10 winners. We go there hoping for one, and if we get one on the first day, then hopefully we might get two or three but we don’t go over expecting winners.

“So I don’t expect, I hope for winners and hopefully the right ones will win. It’s always nicer to get bigger winners than 10 ordinary winners. To get a Gold Cup or a Champion Hurdle puts a whole different aspect on the week.”

As for his form going into the Festival, Willie hopes his string will peak when it matters.

“I’m happy enough. I’ve been further forward in other years,” he admitted. “A few of the horses just haven’t sparked, but I think I’ll have them right by the time we get to Cheltenham.”

Willie Mullins’ key Cheltenham Festival runners

Fact To File: ‘He can run in any race!’

JP McManus’s nine-year-old Poliglote gelding holds the Ryanair crown. He is currently entered to defend that 2½-mile title, but the trainer hasn’t ruled out running him in the Gold Cup over 3m 2f – which will require supplementing at a cost of £25,000.

This was on the strength of beating his stablemates Gaelic Warrior and Galopin Des Champs in the Irish Gold Cup (over 3m 1/2f) at Leopardstown on his latest outing.

“If you go back to November, Fact To File was the Irish banker for the Ryanair and there was no doubt about it,” said Willie. “And then he comes out and did what he did the other day, and you’ve got to remember it’s not like JP is an ordinary owner.

“JP has so many horses, Spillane’s Tower for one, that he can run in the Gold Cup with a live chance and still keep Fact To File in the Ryanair. He’s seen the ups and downs, ins and outs of it so I’m going to respect whatever he says to me.”

The decision is likely to be taken late, depending on which other horses commit to running. But in terms of prep, Willie has no concerns whether he’s running over two miles or three.

“I’ll just get him ready for Cheltenham and if you’d want to supplement him for the Champion Chase I’d say he can run in that too! But I’ll train him the same.”

Fact To File wins the Ryanair Chase at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival. Which race will he go for this season? (Image credit: Alamy)

Gaelic Warrior: ‘He always runs well at Cheltenham’

The 2024 Arkle winner is Willie’s son Patrick Mullins’ pick for the Gold Cup despite being defeated by Fact To File in the Irish Gold Cup. Susanna Ricci’s eight-year-old by Maxios is a remarkably consistent horse at the highest level in staying chases, and was a narrow third in the King George thriller on Boxing Day.

Gaelic Warrior – described by Patrick as “a tank; he’s pure strength” – holds entries in both the Ryanair and the Gold Cup.

“Gaelic Warrior’s in good form; he had a hard race at Christmas and he had a hard race the other day,” said Willie. “He ran fantastic in both races and he’s a horse that does run well at Cheltenham all the time.

“I thought Gaelic Warrior’s run the other day in Leopardstown was ideal for the Ryanair, myself. I just thought the way he ran his race and I wouldn’t have any problem going back there. I thought that was a hell of a run. Patrick was delighted getting off him – he gave him a terrific feel the other day.”

Gaelic Warrior’s four-year-old full brother Our Trigger could take his chance in the Weatherbys Champion Bumper.

Galopin Des Champs: ‘He still has the ability but he’ll need a lot of luck’

Willie’s stable jockey Paul Townend has been aboard Audrey Turley’s son of Timos for both his Gold Cup wins. The 10-year-old has finished third on both his starts this season. Although the horse is in the twilight of his scintillating career, Paul admitted the prospect of riding a rival contender would be “very hard”.

“I don’t think Galopin is finished yet, and I’d love it for the horse to win,” he said. “I’m not saying I would get off him, but if I did and he went by me up the hill, I’d be keeping a wide berth of me for the whole week!”

A hard race at Christmas took more out of the horse than Willie would have liked, but the horse is coming back into form. He would suit softer ground, and may run with cheekpieces.

“He’s in good order and I think he’s still at an age were he’s competitive,” Willie said. “He still has the ability but he’ll need a lot of luck.”

Willie added that Galopin is “lovely individual”.

“He loves people, and when we were out [in the town on his victory parade] we thought we’d just be half an hour but people wanted their photograph with him and he stood there with kids. One kid came over in a wheelchair and he just put his head in his lap – it was extraordinary.”

Galopin Des Champs: can he regain the winning thread? (Image credit: Alamy)

Majborough: the wide-margin winner who ‘has come right’

JP McManus’s Champion Chase contender put in an impressive jumping performance to beat the reigning champ Marine Nationale by 19 lengths in a Leopardstown bog last time. The six-year-old won the Triumph Hurdle at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival, and is favourite for the 2m showpiece this year.

The Martinborough-sired gelding is one to watch if the going is soft.

“I’m always happy enough with his jumping – he might have had one or two schools but very little,” said Willie. “It’s more or less about getting him right – and he’s come right.”

The Champion Hurdle quest

While his 2024 Champion Hurdle winner State Man is sidelined for the season, Willie has nonetheless five horses entered for the 2m hurdling crown, though not all are certain to run. However he’s not boasting about his chances despite the open field.

“Poniros will definitely run because there’s nowhere else to run him,” he said. “Hopefully he’ll have a first-five finish – I think that’s probably the best we can achieve.

“Anzadam – I’ve tried a couple of things and I’ve one or two more things to try that might make him more competitive. We’re a little disappointed as the year has worked out, but I haven’t given up hope on him just yet.”

“Lossiemouth was disappointing the other day, but it’s a very open Champion Hurdle and I’ll have a good word with [owner] Rich Ricci and see what he thinks. A lot will depend on how the mare is in herself. The form she was in the other day I don’t think would cut the mustard and she might be better off going for the Mares’ Hurdle but we shall see.”

However, if Willie does opt for the Mares’ with Lossiemouth, she is likely to face a serious challenge in Gordon Elliott’s Wodhooh, an improving six-year-old who won at the Festival last year and has won both her Group races this campaign. Arguably the Champion Hurdle could hold more appeal.

3 unexposed runners that could deliver for Willie Mullins at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival

Kopek Des Bordes: ‘The further and faster he jumped, the better’

The six-year-old, owned by Monabeg Investments, hit the headlines after a fabulous workout, and is due to line up in the Arkle. However, he has only had one run over fences – winning a beginners’ chase impressively at Navan by 13 lengths. He’s also been picked out by racing journalist Carl Evans in our round up of Cheltenham day 1 tips.

“You have to ask the question – how many horses have gone to the Arkle with just one run before?” Willie said. “We are up against it experience-wise, but it’s well known how well he worked recently when he and other horses when two miles over fences at racing speed.

“The further and faster he jumped, the better he jumped.”

Kopek Des Bordes heads for the Arkle on the back of one chasing run. (Image credit: Alamy)

Mighty Park: ‘He has to be a hell of a horse’

JP McManus’ five-year-old son of Walk In The Park is entered in the Supreme Novices’ and Turners Novices’ Hurdles.

He has had only one run over hurdles, where he trounced the 16-strong field by 38 lengths at Fairyhouse.

“When Mark Walsh got off him after he won at Fairyhouse, he said he looked at the big screen at the second last and couldn’t believe how far he was in front, having gone what he thought was a normal slow pace,” said Willie.

“Mark said his cruising speed must be huge and he’s a fantastic jumper. I think he must be right in the mix for the Supreme. He has to be a hell of a horse to do what he did and has huge natural ability.

“Winning by 38 lengths like he did the other day puts you into Faugheen-type territory. From day one I thought he was good enough to win a Champion Bumper with what he was showing me at home.”

Love Sign D’Aunou: ‘He didn’t beat them, he hammered them’

Susanna Ricci’s five-year-old son of Goliath Du Berlais is another Bumper contender. He has won his only start by 10 lengths.

“That win at Naas was a huge performance,” said Willie. “I always love horses that can win at Christmas time or this time of year by 10 lengths.

“He hammered them. He didn’t beat them, he hammered them, and what I loved about it was that he never really showed me that at home. I have so many morning glories where you think they’re fantastic at home and you bring them to the racetrack and they let you down.”

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‘I think he could win the Gold Cup’: 17-time champion amateur jockey’s selection for Cheltenham’s blue riband

Martha Terry — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:10:19 +0000

Champion trainer Willie Mullins has entered nine horses for the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup 2026, and his son and assistant trainer Patrick Mullins highlights Gaelic Warrior as his pick of the bunch.

“I’d love to ride Gaelic Warrior, I think he’d win the Gold Cup,” says amateur rider Patrick, who won the Grand National last year with Nick Rockett. “I’ve ridden a lot of horses in my life, the feeling he gives is pure strength, and it’s that strength that makes me think he could win.

“It’s a cliché but he’d run through a brick wall – he’s like a tank.”

“Like a tank”: Gaelic Warrior’s greatest asset is his bottomless strength. (Image credit: Alamy)

Patrick rides Gaelic Warrior at home and describes him as “always leaning on you, always wants to be in conversation”.

“He can hang and run a bit keen at times, he’s complicated, but while some horses would annoy you, he doesn’t annoy me because you can have a conversation with him,” he says.

“Our gallop is bottomless and he just goes through it so easily. After every race he’s fresh – nothing knocks him or fazes him.”

Thankfully, he never throws his weight around in the stable – though it takes two people to lead him up at the races.

“He’s a funny horse, if he was a human he wouldn’t know how strong he is,” Patrick adds. “He has a bit of wild eye and he’s a bit turned in – he’s not an oil painting, but he does the job.

“He looks big – he’s 16.3hh – but in the stable he’s quite relaxed. But he has this persona in his races of being very difficult to ride and he is. He was born with this energy. You need to know him, that’s all.”

Why Gaelic Warrior could win at Cheltenham 2026

The eight-year-old has a superb record, only finishing out of the first three once (sixth) in 20 completed races. He racked up three in a row last season, and won the Arkle at the Cheltenham Festival by 8½ lengths two years ago.

Cheltenham form: Gaelic Warrior wins the Arkle Chase at the Festival in 2024. (Image credit: Alamy)

Gaelic Warrior finished a tight third in the Boxing Day King George thriller, before last time out finishing second to stablemate Fact To File in the Irish Gold Cup at the Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown.

“I thought he’d win there too,” admits Patrick, before pointing out that the horse’s form outside of Leopardstown is considerably better than his form at Leopardstown. “In technical terms, in Cheltenham and Aintree and Kempton, where he ran well, there’s a constant inside running rail, and the field races quite tight, so you can park him in on horses’ tails and he relaxes, when he can’t see any daylight.

“At Leopardstown, there’s no inch of running rail, so the field is always spreading out and there’s daylight. Whenever he sees daylight he says I wanna go faster! He is strong, and when he wants to go there’s not much I can do about it. But if you know him well enough, you can distract him – you can’t force him to slow down.”

Of course, with Willie Mullins having some 87 entries across the board, several in multiple races and numerous key contenders, all this conjecturing could be academic. Gaelic Warrior is currently vying for favouritism for the Ryanair Chase with Fact To File – who may yet himself be supplemented at a cost of £25,000 for the Gold Cup, for which the latter is favourite despite the lack of entry. Gaelic Warrior is entered in both – and it’s Willie’s decision which of his jockeys rides which horse.

But Patrick has laid down his cards as the horse he is keen to ride in the big one as he bids to add the Gold Cup to a CV that is impressive by any standards, let alone as an amateur rider.

He adds: “If I could choose one, the Grand National would be the one and always was because of the history – but Sam Waley-Cohen won both so let’s try to match him!”

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‘Something you dream of as a kid’: British jump racing’s championship winners celebrated

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:52:27 +0000

Championship titles were awarded to Britain’s top jump jockey, conditional jockey and trainer at the bet365 Jump Finale at Sandown Park on Saturday (26 April).

Sean Bowen, 27, built up an unassailable lead in the jockey championship and already had it won well in advance of the final day. The Welshman had 180 winners from 902 rides over the season, winning £2,219,430.

“It is something you dream of as a kid,” said Sean. “When you are racing ponies up the gallops, you dream of being AP McCoy, Richard Johnson and Brian Hughes. I can’t quite believe it’s now going to be me. Going racing, jockeys like those were my idols and you try to be like them.

“You want to be a jockey and then to be champion jockey – that is the dream.”

Paying tribute to all those who have supported him, Sean said: “It all starts with my parents – they have been my biggest supporters. And my agent [Alain Cawley] has done an incredible job and kept me very busy.”

Sean also thanked Olly Murphy, a trainer he has primarily ridden for for a number of years – he provided Sean with 103 of his 180 winners, including Reslendent Grey, who won Sandown’s feature race on Saturday, the bet365 Gold Cup.

“Olly Murphy has been my biggest supporter trainer-wise,” said Sean. “For him to have his horses in great form from the start to the end of the season has been a massive part of my success.”

“It’s been an unbelievable year and I texted Sean on Saturday morning and said sorry I hadn’t provided him with a Grade One winner,” said Mr Murphy. “But we’d just about done everything else.”

Sean’s win on Saturday came after an incredible last two weeks of the season, having ridden a treble and then a four-timer at Perth midweek, and winning the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse for Welsh trainer Rebecca Curtis on Haiti Couleurs on Monday.

“Honestly, the best two weeks of my life – I hope it carries on for ever,” said Sean, who is looking forward to his wedding.

“Harriet [Matthews] and I are getting married in the summer. I am not very good at organising things like that so am leaving it to Harriet!” joked Sean, who is off on his stag do to Tenerife this week. “We are really looking forward to the wedding and have been together since I was a conditional at Paul Nicholls’.”

Sean’s previous attempt at the jockey championship ended in heartbreak; a Boxing Day knee injury derailed his campaign while he was leading last season.

“I knew I had to start fast and keep the pressure on,” said Sean. “Harry Skelton pushed me hard around Christmas, but I managed to rebuild the lead. It’s been relentless, but every mile of the 75,000 I’ve driven this season, and every ride, was worth it for this.”

Harry Skelton finished second in the jump jockey championship with 142 winners, Harry Cobden was third on 116 winners.

‘Everything I achieve is for mum’: 19-year-old secures conditional jockey championship

Freddie Gingell with the champion conditional jockey trophy. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Freddie Gingell became champion conditional jockey for the 2024/25 season. The 19-year-old is from a famous racing family; his grandfather is Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning trainer Colin Tizzard and his uncle is former jockey and Colin’s successor, Joe Tizzard.

Freddie said: “It was only three years ago that I was point-to-pointing and it took off from there. It’s gone really well.

“Joe has been very good to me and almost like a brother. We are very close and he helps me here, there and everywhere.”

Not only has he had the support of Joe, but he also had the considerable force of his boss, 14-times champion jumps trainer Paul Nicholls, behind him.

It was Paul that provided more big-race success when he handed him the ride on Il Ridoto in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham in November.

“Of my 39 winners this season, 18 have been for Joe and 18 have been for Paul Nicholls,” Freddie said.

“Winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup on Il Ridoto was the biggest day this season and another horse right up there would be Copperhead – he won four races this season including the veterans’ final.”

Freddie’s mother Kim died aged 43 in 2020 owing to cancer, but he still keenly feels her influence.

“Everything I achieve is for Mum,” said Freddie. “It’s nearly five years ago now and my whole world really got turned around. From then on, I really wanted to give it my best shot, which is what she would have wanted. It’s all for her.”

Freddie thanked his father, Dave, who drives his son to most of his race meetings: “Dad and I really are like best friends as much as father and son. I am thankful for him being by my side and we get through every day together.”

A conditional jockey can “claim” a weight allowance of 7lbs until they have 20 wins, 5lbs until 40 wins and 3lbs until 75 wins (conditional jockeys with fewer than five wins can also claim an extra 3lbs when riding for their own stable).

Callum Pritchard finished second in the conditional jockey championship with 32 winners, Caoilin Quinn was third with 29 winners.

Jump trainers’ championship goes to the wire

Trainer Willie Mullins with the champion jump trainer trophy. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The British jump trainers’ championship was decided on the day of the bet365 Jump Finale at Sandown Park and following the sixth race, the bet365 Gold Cup, the prize money standings meant Ireland’s Willie Mullins had an unassailable lead over Dan Skelton, who led going into the final day.

Mr Mullins won his first title last season, becoming the first Irish-based trainer to take the honours since Vincent O’Brien 70 years earlier and has now emulated Mr O’Brien with a second championship.

The final prize money standings were £3,570,991 to Mr Mullins and £3,371,484 to Mr Skelton.

“The last few weeks have been tough and they must have been tough for Dan too – that’s the way things go,” said Mr Mullins.

“I am very happy for all our connections and owners who once again have supported us with their horses.

“It feels special to do something similar to what Vincent O’Brien did, but of course he then and went and also did it on the Flat, which I won’t be doing!”

Having saddled Il Etait Temps to victory in the Grade One bet365 Celebration Chase and Gaelic Warrior to win the Grade Two bet365 Oaksey Chase, Mr Mullins, 68, ended bet365 Jump Finale and the British jump season perfectly when Jump Allen landed the concluding bet365 Handicap Hurdle.

“I am very happy doing what I’m doing and am very happy for the owners, staff and the home team, starting with Jackie my wife,” he said.

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‘Nick Rockett has always been a legend to me, now he’s proven it to the world’: meet Aintree’s Grand National hero

Jennifer Donald — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:30:49 +0000

The 2025 Randox Grand National winner Nick Rockett stands barely 16hh, but he’s as “brave as a lion” said jockey Patrick Mullins in the aftermath of their victory in the world famous race on Saturday, 5 April at huge odds of 33/1.

We wanted to find out more about the gallant little Aintree hero, who is trained by Patrick’s father Willie Mullins, so we spoke to his devoted groom Katie Walton about her beloved “Nickers”, as the eight-year-old is known at home.

She tells H&H about some of the charismatic gelding’s “bizarre” habits and the remarkable story leading up to that historic day when Nick Rockett became a true Grand National legend.

Grand National winner Nick Rockett: “A huge personality” with some “bizarre” habits

Nick Rockett’s groom Katie Walton has been part of the all-conquering Willie Mullins team at Closutton, Co. Carlow, for the past five years and she is now one of the head lads on the 200-horse training establishment. She has looked after Nick Rockett – AKA “Nickers” – since he came to the yard three years ago.

“When he first arrived, he was only around 15hh, he was like a big greyhound,” says Katie. “He did do a lot of growing over the summer – upwards, not outwards because he’s still very slim and petite. He’s around 16hh now. He came in with the name Nickers – I don’t know who gave it to him, but that’s how everyone knows him now.

“He’s an absolute pleasure to deal with, there’s never a peep out of him. He makes my life and my job so easy and he’s not a hassle at all. He tends to randomly stare up to the ceiling and I say he’s talking to ghosts or he sees something that we don’t, because his mouth will be moving as well. It’s bizarre. And if there’s music in the yard, he’ll bop away with his head. He’s such a character, a really big personality.

“We know when he’s in good form at home because I’ll fall off him!” she continues. “He’s quick, sharp and loves to whip round. But he’s an absolute pleasure to ride really – you squeeze, he goes, very simple. Although I make it look like I’m being run away with sometimes, otherwise the other riders will try to take him off me!”

Aintree Grand National day: “He was on his toes”

Nick Rockett started the year in flying form, winning the Thyestes and Bobbyjo chases, with Willie Mullins’ stable jockey Paul Townend riding. Paul chose to ride last year’s Grand National winner I Am Maximus at Aintree, however.

“In the run-up to the race, I kept telling everyone Nick Rockett was going to win, but I think that was more me manifesting than anything else,” says Katie.

“On the morning of the Grand National, we fed him and his jockey Patrick Mullins came and rode him out, then there are all the videos on social media of him having a good roll afterwards [pictured below]. Paddy said he was really keen and he felt in flying form.”

Nick Rockett enjoys a roll on the grass on the morning of the Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool, with jockey Patrick Mullins. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The son of Walk In The Park was “on his toes” by the time he and the 33 other Grand National runners were in the parade ring.

Katie says: “As he was being saddled, I said to his owner, Stewart Andrew, ‘I just want him to come home safe’ and Stewart said, ‘Katie, he doesn’t owe us anything – he deserves his place to run in the race’. Nick Rockett winning the Thyestes [Grade Three chase at Gowran Park in January] was obviously a really big moment for his owner and for his beloved wife, who sadly passed away.

“When Patrick got up on him, I said he’s in flying form – I really think he’s in with a chance,” says Katie.

“I couldn’t really see the race and I tried to watch it on my phone but there was no internet, so I was really just listening to the commentary. I could hear he was still in the race, then watching him come to the last fence, I was in floods of tears.

“I grabbed hold of David Porter, one of the head lads in Closutton. I got hold of the back of his bodywarmer and I was just shaking him – I don’t think he had any of his eardrum left either! I did think I Am Maximus was going to catch him, but Nick Rockett kicked on. He’s so tough, he’s only a small horse but he has the heart of a lion and he absolutely loves to jump. He jumps for fun.”

Nick Rockett, ridden by Patrick Mullins (orange and black silks), soars over the final fence en route to winning the 2025 Randox Grand National at Aintree. (Image credit: Grossick Racing)

The aftermath of the race: “The Aintree vets and staff were fantastic”

Katie explains that Nick Rockett was feeling the effects of the heat in the immediate aftermath of the race, so as soon as he’d crossed the line, she and the vets and Aintree’s brilliant team of horse handlers attended to him, after which connections returned to the winner’s enclosure and waiting media.

“He was very warm afterwards – he’d put his heart and soul into the race and he came past the finish line with his ears pricked, then when he stopped he just got very warm and very tired, so he was a bit wobbly. But the Aintree vets and staff were fantastic,” says Katie.

“I’d say there were around 100 buckets of water poured over him before we even got him to the wash bay area, then another 300 buckets went over him as we walked in front of the fans. They were so good, there were maybe 10 people around him constantly pouring buckets of water over him. He got the best care in the world.

“The vets were on standby and stayed with us until he was perfect.

“I didn’t want to leave him to go to the presentation,” Katie continues. “But he’d started to perk up. We put him back in his stable and let him calm down. He was quiet as anything, back to normal, then later on, the minute we put his rug and sash on, he was ready to go again.

“‘Did you just forget you ran four miles?’ I said to him. Then I couldn’t get him to stand for the photos – he was so proud of himself and I’m so proud of him.”

Trainer Willie Mullins with Grand National winner Nick Rockett and his groom Katie Walton on the evening of the race at Aintree racecourse. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Reflecting on the glory of Grand National success

Once Nick Rockett had been given the all-clear, he joined his stablemates on the journey back to Ireland and they were back in Closutton by 6.30am on Sunday morning. The bay gelding enjoyed a day in the field where videos showed him trotting around with a real spring in his step. The traditional Grand National homecoming parade and party was due to take place on Wednesday, 9 April.

“It still hasn’t sunk in that he’s won the National,” says Katie. “I’m just so happy for him. People wait 50 years to have a horse like Nick Rockett. He’s proved he’s the best. He’s always been a legend to me, but now he’s proved he’s a legend to the world – everyone knows who Nick Rockett is now.

“He’s a credit to Willie Mullins and to his owners; I’m just so lucky that they’ve brought this horse into my life.”

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‘Everything I’ve dreamed about’: father and son team up to win 2025 Grand National

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 17:03:44 +0000

Nick Rockett gave the Mullins family a day to remember when winning the 2025 Randox Grand National at Aintree under Patrick Mullins for his father, trainer Willie Mullins.

The 33/1 shot sat in a handy position throughout the race and a great jump at the last fence left him in front. He battled to the line alongside last year’s winner I Am Maximus, eventually beating him into second by two-and-a-half lengths.

“Incredible – it was just perfect. It’s everything I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid,” said an elated Patrick, who rides as an amateur. “It’s a cliché, but when I was five or six years old, I remember reading books about the National and watching black and white videos of Red Rum and the like. So to put my name there is incredibly special.

“He’s just a brilliant horse; he’s not very big, he would be one of the smallest in the field. He’s 50 or 60 kilos lighter than the rest of our National horses today, but he’s as brave as a lion.”

Willie Mullins was responsible for five of the first seven home and has become the first trainer to have the first three in the race.

“This is the summit for me – I don’t think anything can be better than this. I never thought it would happen, and here we are,” said Willie, who was overcome with emotion.

“To put your son up on a Grand National winner – what a special day for him, as a jockey and as a person. To win a Grand National as a trainer – wow, how wonderful. To have the two combined – I can’t explain it. I can’t comprehend it and I find it hard to take.”

Nick Rockett is an eight-year-old son of Walk In The Park, owned by Stewart Andrew and his late wife Sadie.

“This is a class horse and he’s got the heart of a lion,” commented Stewart. “I can’t tell you what it’s like from a personal point of view. Sadie would have loved today. She’s up there and she’ll have had a tenner each-way I can guarantee.

“Patrick – what a ride, what a ride. I knew if we got to the front jumping the last he’s tough. If you look at his form, when he jumps the last he keeps going and keeps finding and finding.”

Paul Townend, who was second aboard top weight I Am Maximus, owned by JP McManus, said: “No excuses really. He’s run a huge race again. He took me through the race better last year, probably. I’m just sickened to be beat!”

Brian Hayes was third on Grangeclare West, who is owned by Cheveley Park Stud.

“He did everything right – settled, jumped, travelled into the race quite easy,” said Brian. “He stayed going all the way to the line really well. He just got into the bottom of the last, which maybe cost him second.”

Iroko, the leading British contender trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, went off 13/2 favourite and finished fourth ahead of Meetingofthewaters in fifth.

“We know how hard it is to get a horse into this shape and it was a great run,” said Oliver Greenall. “He jumped really well, he just got a bit outpaced. I think softer ground would have helped him a bit, but I can’t complain.”

A total of 34 horses started, 16 finished, one jockey was unseated, 13 pulled up, two fell and one was brought down.

Broadway Boy, who fell, and Celebre D’Allen, who was pulled up, both received expert veterinary care on course before walking onto a horse ambulance and were taken back to the racecourse stables for further assessment.

Broadway Boy’s jockey Tom Bellamy went to hospital and has a broken wrist. It is reported that all other horses and jockeys are ok.

Update on injured Grand National horses: Tuesday 8 April

Broadway Boy has returned to Nigel Twiston-Davies’ yard after spending Saturday night at Aintree being cared for by vets and his groom Laura Scrivener.

Celebre D’Allen also spent the night on course receiving additional care and showed some improvement. He was then moved to a nearby stud connected to the horse’s owners on Sunday, but on Monday night his condition deteriorated.

Philip Hobbs Racing said: “We’re heartbroken to share that Celebre D’Allen has passed away. He received the very best treatment by the veterinary teams and was improving. However, he deteriorated significantly last night and could not be saved. He was a wonderful horse and we will all miss him greatly.”

Read the full report from the Grand National in the 11 April issue of the magazine

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‘He’ll enter the history books’: experts share Cheltenham Festival tips for day four

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 11:14:39 +0000

The four-day 2025 Cheltenham Festival is preparing for its climax, following a dramatic first day (11 March) when first and second favourites for the Champion Hurdle, Constitution Hill and State Man, crashed out, plus an emotional day on Wednesday, and a first Stayers’ Hurdle victory for Rachael Blackmore yesterday. We now turn our attention to the final day with our Cheltenham day four tips.

If you’re wondering who to back in the big race on Friday 14 March, then don’t miss our Cheltenham Gold Cup tips below from horse racing experts who have shared their knowledge to help you navigate some of today’s seven races. Maybe you’ll pick a winner or two on the final day of jump racing extravaganza?

But whether you win or lose or you are simply happy to enjoy the spectacle, the Cheltenham Festival is a sporting event like no other. It is important that you gamble responsibly and you can read more advice on how to bet here. Are you ready? Let’s go!

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Cheltenham Festival day four tips

Friday 14 March

Gibbs Island in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Tom Lacey | Jockey: Stan Sheppard

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “At a decent price, Gibbs Island is worth an each-way bet. He has more speed in his pedigree than many of his rivals and is unbeaten in two starts for Tom Lacey.”

Hello Neighbour in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue

H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “An improving four-year-old who will have to get past smart British contenders East India Dock and Lulamba, but jockey Keith Donoghue says he’s the horse he’s most looking forward to riding at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. The fitting of a hood seemed to help the exuberant youngster settle better last time out and he powered home to win a Grade One at the Dublin Racing Festival. A very likeable, classy ex-Flat horse who could be very smart indeed.”

Cheltenham Gold Cup tips

If you are looking to try and pick a winner from the feature race of the day, we’re here to help with our Cheltenham Gold tips. Can the remarkable Glaopin Des Champs win a third consecutive Cheltenham Festival Gold Cup?

Galopin Des Champs in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

ITV pundit Ruby Walsh says confidently of the second of his Cheltenham Festival tips: “Galopin des Champs will win the Boodles Gold Cup on Friday. He’s the best we’ve seen for a while and he’ll enter the history books by making it three in a row.”

Corbetts Cross in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Jockey: Jack Kennedy

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “It’s impossible to oppose Galopin Des Champs but he will be a very short price and Corbetts Cross each-way could be a good bet.”

Inothewayurthinkin in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Mark Walsh

Racing journalist Tom Peacock says: “Last year’s Kim Muir scorer has been feeling his way in open company this season. Interesting his connections added him back into the Gold Cup field and he’s a decent alternative to the favourite.”

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CHELTENHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 15: Galopin Des Champs ridden by Paul Townend cross to line to win the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase during day four of the Cheltenham Festival 2024 at Cheltenham Racecourse on March 15, 2024 in Cheltenham, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) (Image credit: Getty Images)

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‘It will take a nice one to beat her’: experts share their day three Cheltenham Festival racing tips

Jennifer Donald — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:20:22 +0000

The four-day 2025 Cheltenham Festival has reached the halfway point, with a dramatic first day (11 March) when first and second favourites for the Champion Hurdle, Constitution Hill and State Man, crashed out, and an emotional day yesterday, we turn our attentions to day three.

Here we bring you our Cheltenham Festival tips from horse racing experts who have shared their knowledge to help you navigate the seven races on the card today – and for tomorrow’s action too. Maybe you’ll pick a winner or two during this year’s jump racing extravaganza?

Cheltenham Festival tips

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Cheltenham Festival day three tips, and more…

Day three tips: Thursday 13 March

Sixandahalf in the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue

H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “This syndicate-owned five-year-old switched from the Flat and was an impressive winner at Fairyhouse on her hurdling debut in January. Her trainer says it will take a nice one to beat her.”

Jungle Boogie in the Ryanair Chase (3.20pm)

Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: TBC

ITV Racing pundit Ruby Walsh says: “My outsider is Jungle Boogie. He is trained by Henry de Bromhead and is beginning to fulfill the potential he showed as a youngster.”

Day four tips: Friday 14 March

Gibbs Island in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Tom Lacey | Jockey: Stan Sheppard

Hello Neighbour in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue

Galopin Des Champs in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

Corbetts Cross in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Jockey: TBC

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “It’s impossible to oppose Galopin Des Champs but he will be a very short price and Corbetts Cross each-way could be a good bet.”

Inothewayurthinkin in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: TBC

Cheltenham Festival tips and how our expert tippers fared in 2025

Day one tips: Tuesday 11 March

Kopek Des Bordes in the Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

ITV Racing is on air 12.45-5pm every day of the Cheltenham Festival and ITV commentator Richard Hoiles says: “This is the horse I am most looking forward to at the Festival and he lines up in the opening race. He looked a potential superstar when winning in Ireland last time and hopefully he can prove the point and get punters off to a good start.”

Racing journalist Carl Evans agrees: “Willie Mullins is likely to train plenty of winners over the four days and, while his Kopek Des Bordes is a short price in the opening race, it’s good to beat the bookies in round one.”

Kopek Des Bordes result: winner

Joyeuse in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (3.20pm)

Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Jockey: Nico de Boinville

Racing journalist Tom Peacock says: “A really impressive winner of Newbury’s big handicap hurdle last month and Nicky Henderson clearly feels she is on the upgrade to pitch her in against the best mares. A nice one at the prices.”

Joyeuse result: sixth

Take No Chances in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (3.20pm)

Trainer: Dan Skelton | Jockey: Harry Skelton

H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “She’s up against mega mare Lossiemouth but could run well at a big price. I’ve loved her attitude in some tight finishes this season and she has proved she stays much further than this 2m 4f, so she will hopefully be staying on gamely up the Cheltenham hill.”

Take No Chances result: third

Constitution Hill in the Unibet Champion Hurdle (4pm)

Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Jockey: Nico de Boinville

ITV Racing’s lead presenter Ed Chamberlin has nominated the 2023 champion as his cert of the meeting in the Unibet Champion Hurdle, the highlight of Tuesday’s card. “He’s a generational talent and looks back to his best,” he says.

Constitution Hill result: fell

Murcia in the Hallgarten and Novum Wines Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (registered as the Fred Winter) (4.40pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Rachael Blackmore

Ed Chamberlin also picks out a longer shot from Tuesday’s action, saying: “She’s in the Honeysuckle silks and may not have her talent but she does look better than her handicap mark.”

Murcia result: eighth

Day two tips: Wednesday 12 March

The Yellow Clay in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gordon Elliott | Jockey: Jack Kennedy

Leading the second day’s Cheltenham Festival tips, H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “I can’t wait for this 2m 5f contest packed full of young superstars this year. I think The New Lion could well take it for the Skeltons and new owner JP McManus, while you can forgive Grade One winner Potters Charm his defeat last time out, for which there are plenty of excuses. But unbeaten Irish raider The Yellow Clay is very exciting, has proved himself in some real scraps and seems to be on an upward curve.”

The Yellow Clay result: second

Sixmilebridge in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Fergal O’Brien | Jockey: Kielan Woods

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “Beat a smart horse when winning at Cheltenham in January and might surprise some shorter-priced runners.”

Sixmilebridge result: ninth

Ballyburn in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase (2pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “Steps up in trip for this race and that is likely to suit him.”

Ballyburn result: fifth

Latenightpass in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase (3.20pm)

Trainer: Tom Ellis | Jockey: Gina Andrews

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “Although only third to Stumptown over the course and distance in December, Latenightpass is now better off at the weights and is very good over these rare obstacles.”

Latenightpass result: second

Jazzy Matty in the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup (4.40pm)

Trainer: Cian Collins | Jockey: Danny Gilligan

Racing journalist Tom Peacock says: “A winner here over hurdles who had a useful sighter over fences earlier in the season. Represents a new and shrewd, young trainer in Cian Collins, who will be keen to make his mark.”

Jazzy Matty result: winner

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‘Give me a pinch and make sure this isn’t a dream!’: shock result in Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 19:02:30 +0000

A dramatic Unibet Champion Hurdle unfolded on the opening day of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival as two former winners fell and a 25/1 shot ran on triumph.

Palpable shock rippled through the crowd when odds-on favourite and trainer Nicky Henderson’s stable star, Constitution Hill, who won in 2023, fell at the fifth flight. Both he and jockey Nico De Boinville were reported to be ok afterwards, but the outcome brought his unbeaten run of 10 under Rules to an end.

Last year’s winner, State Man, appeared to have the contest at his mercy, until a final flight fall when five lengths clear put paid to his chances. This left Ian Gosden’s Golden Ace with the lead and the seven-year-old by Golden Horn, ridden by Lorcan Williams, became just the seventh mare to win the race since it was first run in 1927.

Winning trainer Jeremy Scott said: “I think my team at home will be as flabbergasted as I am – they’ll be watching it at home now and they’ll definitely be reaching for the drinks’ cabinet.

“My wife, Camilla, and our family are all involved. Camilla does a lot of the work at home – she has the patience of a saint and she’s the genius, rather than me.

“Lorcan is part of the team and we work really well together. He’s just such a good horseman and he’s a good mate, so it’s really nice to do this.

“Give me a pinch and make sure this isn’t a dream! I couldn’t even dream it – for God’s sake, thump me, because I must be fast asleep at the moment!”

Lorcan Williams admitted his ride wasn’t travelling as well as he would have hoped in the latter part of the race when things started unravelling in front of him.

“Literally, I cannot believe it,” he said. “I was thinking that we could do with a bit further, then I thought, ‘We’re staying on well for second’, and things happened started to happen. I’m absolutely thrilled for the Jeremy Scott team; it’s a massive team effort to come here and I’m lost for words as to what a pleasure it is to get it done.

“Nothing compares to how I am feeling now. I hope this day will never end. I’m shell shocked.”

The James Owen-trained Burdett Road finished runner-up at odds 66/1 under Sam Twiston-Davies for the Gredley Family, while the Willie Mullins-trained 150/1 shot Winter Fog was third under Brian Hayes for The Triple Lock Partnership.

How are the Champion Hurdle fallers?

Few race fans would have predicted that Constitution Hill and State Man would fall in Champion Hurdle on the opening day of the Festival, but both were reported by their trainers to be fine after the race.

Nicky Henderson said: “[Constitution Hill] seems fine. He is very bright and breezy, but of course he hasn’t had a race. I don’t know what can you say. He ran two miles, even if he didn’t have Nico on at the end.

“He has been in terrific form I have got to say, but when you are jumping as fast as they jump, you have got to get it deadly accurate.”

Constitution Hill may now head to Punchestown Festival in May for the Boodles Champion Hurdle.

Willie Mullins, trainer of State Man, said: “He was just long at it and popped the top of it, but these things happen. I’m just delighted he is okay.”

Cheltenham Festival day one results

1.20pm: Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

1st: Kopek Des Bordes, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend

2nd: William Munny

3rd: Romeo Coolio

2pm: My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase

1st: Jango Baie, trained by Nicky Henderson and ridden by Nico De Boinville

2nd: Only By Night

3rd: Majborough

2.40pm: Ultima Handicap Chase

1st: Myretown, trained by Lucinda Russell and ridden by Patrick Wadge

2nd: The Changing Man

3rd: Malina Girl

3.20pm: Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle

1st: Lossiemouth, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend

2nd: Jade De Grugy

3rd: Take No Chances

4pm: Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

1st: Golden Ace, trained by Jeremy Scott and ridden by Lorcan Williams

2nd: Burdett Road

3rd: Winter Fog

4.40pm: Hallgarten And Novum Wines Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

1st: Puturhandstogether, trained by Joseph O’Brien and ridden by Mark Walsh

2nd: Robbies Rock

3rd: Liam Swagger

5.20pm: Princess Royal National Hunt Challenge Cup Novices’ Handicap Chase

1st: Haiti Couleurs, trained by Rebecca Curtis and ridden by Ben Jones

2nd: Rock My Way

3rd: Will Do

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from the Cheltenham Festival, as well as major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘I had my kidney removed and he has kept me going’: emotions run high as Cheltenham Festival gets underway

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:53:17 +0000

Kopek Des Bordes’ win in the opening Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival today (11 March) was emotional for many reasons.

Ridden by Paul Townend and trained by Willie Mullins, Kopek Des Bordes is owned by Monabeg Investments Limited, which has Charlie McCarthy among its members.

“This is something I have dreamt about all my life,” said Charlie, who has endured a tumultuous time recently. “I had my right kidney removed, which was cancerous, on 26 February. But he [Kopek Des Bordes] kept me going through all of it. He’s a superb horse, something special.”

Following the race, Charlie added: “I’m on cloud nine – is there a bigger cloud to be on? I just can’t get over it! Here with my sons, to win at Cheltenham and to win the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, after everything I’ve been through, is a dream come true, and the dream is not finished yet.”

This race was renamed in memory of Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan, 24, who died following a fall at Thurles Racecourse last month.

Jockey Paul Townend was overcome with emotion when asked about his former colleague.

“He was a big part of our team. He is in everyone’s thoughts every day,” said Paul. “We can just count ourselves very lucky that we did know him for the short that we did – very lucky to have known such an incredible young man.”

William Munny finished second under jockey Sean Flanagan. He is owned and trained by Barry Connell, who was a big supporter of Michael O’Sullivan throughout his career.

“The whole thing today is very poignant,” said Barry. “This whole place is emotional on an ordinary day, but when you have something like this after the tragedy that happened to Michael, who was so closely associated with our yard, it is very raw.”

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Galopin Des Champs: everything you need to know about this two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup victor

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 13:00:23 +0000

Ireland’s champion jumps trainer Willie Mullins is hoping star chaser Galopin Des Champs can become just the fifth horse in history, behind Golden Miller, Arkle, Best Mate and Cottage Rate, to win three Gold Cups at the forthcoming Cheltenham Festival (11-14 March).

Willie is the most successful trainer in Cheltenham Festival history with 103 wins to his name and he’ll be hoping to boost that number further over the four days of action at Prestbury Park for jump racing’s Olympics.

Willie Mullins: “It’ll be a tip-top Gold Cup, I think”

Nine-year-old Galopin Des Champs, who runs in the colours of Audrey Turley, justified favouritism to win last year’s race and again heads for Friday’s feature race at the top of the betting market. His key rivals include the Joseph O’Brien-trained Banbridge, and the Willie Mullins-trained Fact To File.

“Galopin Des Champs is a tremendous horse and he has his own piece of history already, but hopefully there will be more to come,” says Willie. “He has tremendous owners, Greg and Audrey Turley, who really appreciate it; they’re living it and enjoying it. It’s unbelievable that we have a horse that’s going for a third Gold Cup win and could be in the Best Mate and Arkle category.

“It’s a huge honour to be just involved with a horse like this and we just hope the dream stays alive. I’m living the dream every morning I get up.

Galopin Des Champs: a red football goes everywhere with him

Closutton barn manager Adam Connolly has the enviable job of riding the highest rated horse every day.

“You can really feel the engine under you,” he says. “I’ve been riding him since before he was a Gold Cup winner, so he feels no different to me, but I realise when everyone comes over to see him that he’s special.

“At the races, he probably calms me down now – he used to jump around like a mad hooligan. He has a football in his stable with him, which I just gave him for the craic. He doesn’t play with it much now, but I’m superstitious so the red ball goes everywhere with him now.”

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Previous winner among Grand National entries for 2025 as weights are revealed

Gemma Redrup — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:57:46 +0000

The Grand National entries and weights for the 2025 race, which takes place at Aintree racecourse on 5 April, have been announced.

Among the 87 confirmed entries at this stage is 2024 Grand National winner I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and owned by JP McManus.

The Gavin Cromwell-trained Inothewayurthinkin currently leads the betting at odds of 8/1. This seven-year-old is owned by JP McManus, who he owns the top three in the betting at this stage. I Am Maximus is second favourite at 12/1, the Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero-trained Iroko is third favourite at 14/1.

The total number of horses accepted to run in the Grand National was reduced from 40 to 34 in 2024, and the final runners will be confirmed 48 hours before the race, which starts at 4pm.

Of the 87 Grand National entries, 47 are Irish-trained, one is French-trained.

Grand National entries for 2025

Key: Number of acceptance, horse name, country of breeding, horse age, weight to carry in the race, owner, trainer

1 I Am Maximus (FR) 9 11 12 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins

2 Royale Pagaille (FR) 11 11 9 Mrs S. Ricci Venetia Williams

3 Envoi Allen (FR) 11 11 8 Cheveley Park Stud Henry de Bromhead

4 Grangeclare West (IRE) 9 11 8 Cheveley Park Stud W. P. Mullins

5 L’Homme Presse (FR) 10 11 8 Dfa Racing (Pink, Edwards & Sharman) Venetia Williams

6 Nick Rockett (IRE) 8 11 8 Stewart & Sadie Andrew W. P. Mullins

7 Hewick (IRE) 10 11 7 Mr T. J. McDonald Tara Lee Cogan

8 Gentlemansgame (GB) 9 11 5 Robcour M. F. Morris

9 Inothewayurthinkin (IRE) 7 11 5 Mr John P. McManus Gavin Cromwell

10 Monty’s Star (IRE) 8 11 5 Mr Barry Maloney Henry de Bromhead

11 The Real Whacker (IRE) 9 11 4 Neville, Mann, Duffus, Dennis-Price Patrick Neville

12 Minella Indo (IRE) 12 11 3 Mr Barry Maloney Henry de Bromhead

13 Appreciate It (IRE) 11 11 2 Miss M. A. Masterson W. P. Mullins

14 Capodanno (FR) 9 11 2 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins

15 Conflated (IRE) 11 11 2 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott

16 Delta Work (FR) 12 11 2 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott

17 Minella Cocooner (IRE) 9 11 2 Mr David Bobbett W. P. Mullins

18 Stumptown (IRE) 8 11 2 Furze Bush Syndicate Gavin Cromwell

19 Beauport (IRE) 9 11 1 Bryan & Philippa Burrough Nigel Twiston-Davies

20 Hitman (FR) 9 11 1 Mason, Hogarth, Ferguson & Done Paul Nicholls

21 Bravemansgame (FR) 10 11 0 Bryan Drew Paul Nicholls

22 Chantry House (IRE) 11 10 13 Mr John P. McManus Nicky Henderson

23 Galvin (IRE) 11 10 13 Mr R. A. Bartlett Gordon Elliott

24 Perceval Legallois (FR) 8 10 12 Mr John P. McManus Gavin Cromwell

25 Threeunderthrufive (IRE) 10 10 12 McNeill Family Paul Nicholls

26 Fakir d’Oudairies (FR) 10 10 11 Mr John P. McManus Joseph Patrick O’Brien

27 Iroko (FR) 7 10 11 Mr John P. McManus Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

28 Kandoo Kid (FR) 9 10 11 Mr Michael Geoghegan Paul Nicholls

29 Trelawne (GB) 9 10 11 The Real Partnership Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

30 Idas Boy (IRE) 11 10 10 Dozen Dreamers Richard Phillips

31 Intense Raffles (FR) 7 10 10 Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede T. Gibney

32 Limerick Lace (IRE) 8 10 10 Mr John P. McManus Gavin Cromwell

33 Senior Chief (GB) 8 10 10 Lucky In Life Syndicate Henry de Bromhead

34 Broadway Boy (IRE) 7 10 9 Mr D. M. Proos Nigel Twiston-Davies

35 Coko Beach (FR) 10 10 9 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott

36 Farouk d’Alene (FR) 10 10 9 Mr Justin Carthy Gary Brown

37 Fil Dor (FR) 7 10 9 Robcour Gordon Elliott

38 French Dynamite (FR) 10 10 9 Robcour M. F. Morris

39 Mr Incredible (IRE) 9 10 9 Mr J. Manclark Sandy Thomson

40 Stay Away Fay (IRE) 8 10 9 Bell, Lyons, Hill Paul Nicholls

41 Zanahiyr (IRE) 8 10 9 Bective Stud Gordon Elliott

42 Pinkerton (IRE) 9 10 8 Mr P. L. Polly Noel Meade

43 Meetingofthewaters (IRE) 8 10 7 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins

44 Minella Drama (IRE) 10 10 7 Green Day Racing Donald McCain

45 Velvet Elvis (IRE) 9 10 7 Mr D. Kierans Gavin Cromwell

46 Celebre d’Allen (FR) 13 10 6 Mr Allan Stennett Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

47 Fontaine Collonges (FR) 10 10 6 Mr P. Davies Venetia Williams

48 Horantzau d’Airy (FR) 8 10 6 Mrs S. Ricci W. P. Mullins

49 Hyland (FR) 8 10 6 The Ten From Seven Nicky Henderson

50 Monbeg Genius (IRE) 9 10 6 Martin Tedham & Wasdell Properties Ltd. Jonjo & A.J. O’Neill

51 Vanillier (FR) 10 10 6 Mrs H. M. Keaveney Gavin Cromwell

52 Minella Crooner (IRE) 9 10 5 KTDA Racing/Nick Courtney/Cillian Moran Gordon Elliott

53 Quick Wave (FR) 12 10 5 Ms Sharon Kinsella Venetia Williams

54 Three Card Brag (IRE) 8 10 5 Patrick & Scott Bryceland, McNeill Family Gordon Elliott

55 Twig (GB) 10 10 5 Mrs G. Morgan Ben Pauling

56 Duffle Coat (IRE) 8 10 4 Mr Ray Stokes Gordon Elliott

57 Roi Mage (FR) 13 10 4 Pryde/Van Der Hoeven/McGladery/Beaumont Patrick Griffin

58 Shakem Up’arry (IRE) 11 10 4 Mr Harry Redknapp Ben Pauling

59 Fantastic Lady (FR) 10 10 3 Mr E. R. Hanbury Nicky Henderson

60 Favori de Champdou (FR) 10 10 3 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott

61 Yeah Man (IRE) 8 10 3 John J. Brennan/Martin Hannan Gavin Cromwell

62 Chemical Energy (IRE) 9 10 2 Bective Stud Gordon Elliott

63 Macdermott (FR) 7 10 2 Gallagher Bloodstock Limited W. P. Mullins

64 Mister Coffey (FR) 10 10 2 Lady Bamford & Alice Bamford Nicky Henderson

65 Mr Vango (IRE) 9 10 2 Cracker and Smodge Partnership Sara Bradstock

66 Bronn (IRE) 8 10 1 Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede T. Gibney

67 Desertmore House (IRE) 10 10 1 O. B. P. Carroll/Anthony Vaughan Martin Brassil

68 Malina Girl (IRE) 8 10 1 Mrs J. M. Russell Gavin Cromwell

69 Richmond Lake (IRE) 9 10 1 Hemmings Racing Donald McCain

70 La Renommee (FR) 7 10 0 Upton House Stud Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole

71 King Turgeon (FR) 7 9 13 Somerset Racing David Pipe

72 Stuzzikini (IRE) 7 9 13 VCS Versatile Coating Specialist/F Foran Gordon Elliott

73 Cruz Control (FR) 8 9 12 Mr F Green and Mr J Chinn Tom Lacey

74 Surrey Quest (IRE) 8 9 12 Surrey Racing (SQ) Toby Lawes

75 Apple Away (IRE) 8 9 11 Old Gold Racing 14 Lucinda Russell

76 Busselton (FR) 8 9 11 Friendship Partnership Joseph Patrick O’Brien

77 Gevrey (FR) 9 9 11 Denis Gallagher Racing Gordon Elliott

78 Spanish Harlem (FR) 7 9 11 Dr S. P. Fitzgerald W. P. Mullins

79 The Goffer (IRE) 8 9 10 Mr Allan Snow Gordon Elliott

80 Famous Bridge (IRE) 9 9 9 Hemmings Racing Nicky Richards

81 Copperhead (GB) 11 9 7 Mrs G. C. Pritchard Joe Tizzard

82 Escaria Ten (FR) 11 9 7 J B Property Investments (Midlands) Ltd Martin Keighley

83 Where It All Began (IRE) 9 9 7 McNeill Family/Patrick & Scott Bryceland Gordon Elliott

84 Git Maker (FR) 9 9 6 Sheep As A Lamb Syndicate Jamie Snowden

85 Gericault Roque (FR) 9 9 4 Prof. Caroline Tisdall and Bryan Drew David Pipe

86 Pats Fancy (IRE) 10 9 3 Hydes, McDermott, Spencer, Frobisher & Lee Rebecca Curtis

87 Placenet (FR) 8 9 3 Prof C Tisdall & G Thompson D. Cottin

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Meet Willie Mullins’ key Cheltenham Festival contenders: ‘A huge honour to be involved with a horse like Galopin Des Champs’

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 10:16:29 +0000

County Carlow racehorse trainer Willie Mullins is the master of his profession and returns to the Cheltenham Festival next month (11-14 March) with a formidable team of equine superstars.

The champion trainer has won most of the major prizes in Britain and Ireland and reigns as the most successful trainer at the Cheltenham Festival with a record 103 winners to his credit.

Willie tallied nine victors at Prestbury Park last year, with dual Boodles Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs spearheading a host of successful stars that also included State Man in the Unibet Champion Hurdle, Lossiemouth in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle and Majborough in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.

So who are Willie Mullins’ key contenders at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival? This is what he had to say about just some of his potential runners when he opened his Closutton gates this week in an event organised by The Jockey Club.

“The string couldn’t be in better order,” he says. “Maybe unlike other years, we have a lot of our plans fairly well made. I’m happy enough that we are probably way more forward this year than we have been in other years.”

Willie Mullins’ key Cheltenham Festival contenders: Galopin Des Champs

Audrey Turley’s nine-year-old Timos gelding holds the Gold Cup crown and will be bidding for the hat-trick in Friday’s contest.

“Galopin Des Champs‘s performance in the Irish Gold Cup was very good, although I thought Christmas was better,” says the trainer. “At Leopardstown, Paul Townend got to the front and then he very steadily just slowed it down. We’re not worried if someone wants to take him on, that’s fine. Paul can ride him anywhere he wants and he has complete faith in the horse – as he always said to me, this horse gallops and jumps.

“The Gold Cup is five weeks from Friday [7 February] and I’d really love another week. He has tremendous owners, Greg and Audrey Turley, who really appreciate it; they’re living it and enjoying it. It’s unbelievable that we have a horse that’s going for a third Gold Cup win and could be in the Best Mate and Arkle category.

“It’s a huge honour to be just involved with a horse like this and we just hope the dream stays alive. I’m living the dream every morning I get up.

“I think of my father when he was training Dawn Run and the defending champion Gaye Brief got injured ahead of the Champion Hurdle,” reveals Willie. “Now, when I’m in his position, every morning I wake up and hope I don’t get a bad report about any of the horses and I’m also not wishing bad luck on my competitors, because I know what it’s like.

“It’s a once in a lifetime job, isn’t it? Arkle, Best Mate, hopefully this horse, if he can do that. There were many years between the first two – 1966 to 2004 – so maybe we’re a generation too soon!

“Galopin Des Champs is a tremendous horse and he has his own piece of history already, but hopefully there will be more to come.”

Final Demand: “He’s a 17.2hh unit”

This unbeaten hurdler is a six-year-old Walk In The Park gelding owned by Bryan Drew and Prof Caroline Tisdall.

“He has only had two runs and I think 2m 5f on that track at Cheltenham in the Turners will suit him,” says Willie. “He looks a real chaser and must be about 17.2hh – he is built as strong as any horse I’ve had.

“He is probably more like Florida Pearl as he’s just so strong through the body whereas Galopin Des Champs is more evenly balanced through the body. He is a big unit. We will go novice chasing with him next year.”

Maughreen: “A big ask but we’re taking the bull by the horns”

Closely related to the mighty Faugheen, this six-year-old Walk In The Park mare won on her hurdling debut in the colours of the Closutton Racing Club.

“She put in a huge performance the other day [at Punchestown], her first run over hurdles,” says Willie. “We thought ‘Should we be going for a bumper with her instead?’ Then, when we just reflected on how natural she was to jump in all her schooling, we said let’s take the bull by the horns and go for a maiden hurdle so she’ll go for the mares’ novices’ hurdle. It will be a big ask, but she’s a brilliant jumper.”

Kopek Des Bordes: “He blew my mind”

This is another unbeaten hurdler, a five-year-old son of No Risk At All, owned by Monabeg Investments.

“After what he did the other day [winning a Grade One at the Dublin Racing Festival], Ted Walsh rang me the following morning and said he hasn’t seen a performance like that since [leading hurdler] Golden Cygnet, which is huge for someone like Ted to say.

“Paul Townend got down off the horse after the race and said he ran away with him three times in the race. Most normal horses if they run away with a jockey once, that’s enough, a winning chance gone. So it was a huge performance. We would never ask a horse that question at home. It blew my mind what he did at Leopardstown against a field of top-class horses.”

Energumene: “Cheltenham suits him”

Tony Bloom’s 11-year-old dual champion chaser returned from nearly two years on the sidelines to win a Grade Two chase, but went down to Jonbon in the Clarence House at Ascot last month.

“It will be the Champion Chase for Energumene,” says Willie. “Jonbon is way better at Ascot and Energumene is better at Cheltenham, that’s my hope. Softer ground will suit him too.”

Jockey Paul Townend celebrates after winning the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase on Energumene at the Cheltenham Festival. (Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

Ballyburn: “He needs to settle”

This seven-year-old son of Flemensfirth was a winner at last year’s Cheltenham Festival. Sir Gino is the only horse to have beaten him in his past seven races.

“He is entered in the Brown Advisory. I am very pleased with how he came out on his last race,” says the trainer. “I think it would take a bit from Paul Townend to get off him. He needs to settle a little bit now. We’ll be settling him at home, but I think with the size of the Cheltenham fences and everything, I hope it will be fine.”

Majborough: “A magnificent horse in the making”

The JP McManus-owned five-year-old won last year’s Triumph Hurdle and a Grade One at the recent Dublin Racing Festival.

“He goes for the Arkle,” reveals Willie Mullins. “He’s only five and looks a magnificent horse in the making – he does things so naturally. It will be a real clash with Sir Gino, who looks like he could be anything and will be a tough nut to crack. He is a Triumph Hurdle winner and they tend to improve and get further with age.”

State Man and Lossiemouth: “She’d beat them all in a flat race”

This final pair of Willie Mullins’ Cheltenham Festival contenders lined up together in the Irish Champion Hurdle on 2 February – Lossiemouth fell and her Champion Hurdle-winning stable mate cruised to victory.

“It was going to be a hell of a race with Lossiemouth and State Man at Leopardstown,” says Willie. “I don’t know what happened to Lossiemouth. There was a flock of seagulls that just took off and maybe that took her eye off because she pricked her ears straight before the hurdle and then just didn’t get up. It was if she was looking at something ahead of her and she just didn’t get up high enough.

“Thankfully she’s good after the race and Danny Mullins [her jockey] is good – he was just winded. She was traveling well and when you look at her pedigree, she is bred to be a mile a quarter horse on the Flat.

“I think we’ve been training her to steady her up not to make her go faster. I’d say in a Flat race, she’d beat them all. I imagine Paul Townend, who has never hidden his admiration for State Man, will ride him in the Champion Hurdle, and obviously a lot will happen with the bits of work we do between now and then. We’ll see how both horses are. But we’re going for the Champion Hurdle with Lossiemouth. We’ve been training her for this for two years and I don’t think my owner has ever said let’s think about it.

“State Man only does what he has to do, he only beats a horse by a length or a length and a half. He’s never flashy.”

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Meet the dual Cheltenham Gold Cup winner with built-in ‘carrot radar’ who’s thriving in his new career

Gemma Redrup — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 06:00:08 +0000

Al Boum Photo won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2019 and 2020 for trainer Willie Mullins and earnt over £1m in a glittering career for Marie and Joe Donnelly. His winning tally included three Grade One victories, including the Ryanair Gold Cup at Fairyhouse in his novice chase campaign in 2018. And he is now thriving in his new career as a riding horse with Louise Duffy.

Al Boum Photo (nearside) en-route to his 2020 Cheltenham Gold Cup victory. (Image credit: Bill Sewlwyn)

“I’m very lucky to have him,” says Louise of ‘Boum’, who was retired from racing after pulling up in the 2022 French Gold Cup at Auteuil by jockey Paul Townend after jumping poorly.

Boum is the third racehorse that Louise, who juggles riding with a full-time office job, has taken on from Willie Mullins. She previously retrained Grade One winners Arvika Ligeonniere and Assessed with the former competing successfully to CCI2*-L level.

“I was tentatively looking for another horse to retrain as Arvika Ligeonniere was getting older, so I text Jackie [Mullins – Willie’s wife] to see if they had any horses looking for a new home,” explains Louise. “She let me know Boum and [fellow Grade One winner] Melon were going to be retired, but that it wasn’t public knowledge.

“I went to try them at Willie’s yard at Closutton and Boum was the one I got on best with. He’d enjoyed his summer holiday in the field with Galopin Des Champs and I picked him up in August 2022.”

Al Boum Photo at home (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Since then, Louise and Boum have been enjoying getting to know each other and most recently took part in the Stepping Stones to Success Thoroughbred event class at Wexford Equestrian. This comprised a BE90 dressage test followed by showjumping and cross-country on an all-weather surface over a course of 80-90cm, which they completed successfully.

“He hasn’t done a huge number of competitions as I’ve given him time to find his feet in his new job,” says Louise. “His first event was at the Tattersalls Ireland July Show in 2023, where he took part in the novice showing series. There were 25 horses in the class and we finished fourth – I was over the moon. We were meant to do two or three one-day events at the end of last year, but the wet weather put paid to that.”

Al Boum Photo and Louise Duffy. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Louise, who is based in Co. Meath, 30 minutes north of Dublin Airport, says that Boum can be “fresh, spooky and cheeky”.

“But he has incredible intelligence and has such a work ethic, which can sometimes be his undoing as he tries so hard. But he’s got such an ability to learn and is a real athlete.

“He has no idea how good he could be and he is still finding his feet. He has obviously come from a busy yard so riding out on my own at home was an adjustment for him to start with, but it’s just been a case of giving him time to build up his confidence.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Boum is, unsurprisingly, a big fan of carrots too.

“He loves cuddles and carrots – he is a real carrot radar and sniffs them out,” laughs Louise, who is hoping that Boum will take to eventing. “He loves having questions to answer and having to think. I’d never say never to showing, but I think he will really enjoy eventing and some working hunter classes too.”

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‘He has pulled out all the stops again’: Galopin Des Champs wins back-to-back Cheltenham Gold Cups

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 17:20:36 +0000

Galopin Des Champs became a back-to-back winner of the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup when repeating his success of 12 month’s ago for trainer Willie Mullins, jockey Paul Townend and owner Audrey Turley at the Cheltenham Festival this afternoon (15 March).

Ridden much more prominently than a year ago, the eight-year-old, who went off as 10/11 favourite, travelled strongly throughout and had a comfortable three and a half lengths to spare over Gerri Colombe at the finish.

Paul said: “Unbelievable. I rode him completely different to last year and he was just so brave for me. We were kind of in between at the last and I was afraid we didn’t have enough to go for it, but it was a Gold Cup and we had to. He has pulled out all the stops again.”

This victory makes Paul the record-equalling winning jockey in the race; his three previous victories came on Al Boum Photo (2019, 2020) and Galopin Des Champs (2023). The only other jockey to win the title four times was the late Pat Taaffe, on Arkle (1964, 1965, 1966) and Fort Leney (1968).

Willie Mullins also won the race for a fourth time after Galopin Des Champ’s success of 2023, plus Al Boum Photo.

Asked what makes Galopin Des Champs a champion, Paul said: “His heart probably. We obviously changed it up a bit this year, but he enjoys doing that now. I got in a good rhythm. It feels different to all the other [Gold Cup wins]. I can’t really believe it – I’m a bit lost for words. He pulled out every stop, and we went for reserves in the last furlong that only the very best have.

“It’s easy when you are riding for Willie. You can go out and do things, change things. It actually went to plan A probably, but if it didn’t, you have free rein to change it up, and that’s the privilege of riding for the great man.”

Mr Mullins said: “He is classy, isn’t he? Paul jumped out and rode a race on him. We were just afraid of the first couple of jumps – the last couple of years he has come here he has ballooned them a little bit and this year Paul said, ‘No, we’ll get him out there, get him racing earlier on, and then settle him in and ride a race’, and that’s what he’s done.

“Now he’s way more mature and settled in his races, and much easier to ride. Paul has full confidence in him – he has more confidence in him than I have, I think, and I can see why – he’s obviously getting that sort of feel from the saddle all along. He gallops, he jumps, he stays – what more do you need?”

Asked whether he will now attempt a third Cheltenham Gold Cup win, Mr Mullins said: “I imagine we have to do that, yes. Good racehorses deserve to run in good races, and we need to see them out at the races, and that’s why I like running them. And if they’re beaten, it’s not the end of the world; they’re still good horses. He’s a horse I’m not afraid to race.

“I just think he put himself in the superstar category, to do what he did in the way that he did it, and that loose horse there; Paul was so positive on him. I think we have to say we’re coming back next year to try to win a third one if we can. He has the ability to do it, he just has to stay sound, I think.

Winning owner Audrey Turley said: “We can’t believe it, it is still a fantastic shock! I know he was favourite, but you never know with racing what is going to happen. To win here on the 100-year anniversary, that is very special. It’s just been fantastic, we are so privileged to be here and just so thrilled to be part of this magnificent team – Willie, Paul, Galopin, obviously, and everyone else involved from Closutton – it’s just fantastic.”

Cheltenham Gold Cup 2024: who was second and third?

Gordon Elliott, trainer of runner-up Gerri Colombe, said: “He ran a great race and we got a lot closer to the winner this time. The loose horse didn’t help us but it didn’t make the difference between winning and losing. The winner was very, very good.

Jack Kennedy, rider of runner-up Gerri Colombe, said: “It was a great run. I’m delighted with him. We thought he’d get a lot closer to the winner this time and he did.”

Lucinda Russell, trainer of the third-placed Corach Rambler said: “I’m absolutely over the moon. If you’d said to me I’d be third in the Gold Cup I wouldn’t have believed you. On Tuesday we weren’t going to run, but he’s a racehorse and he loves his job.

“At the top of the hill I thought he was a little further back than usual, but as he came down the hill and round that corner I just thought ‘could he do it again’. Maybe if the ground had been a bit better I don’t know. All I know is that I’m delighted with him. To be third in the Gold Cup is fantastic and I can’t get over how much people here appreciate him.

“He’s just lovely. He’s the horse of a lifetime. It’s the perfect Grand National trial and I’m so proud of him.”

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‘He deserves this’: Willie Mullins scores big in the Cheltenham Festival Champion Hurdle

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:00:50 +0000

State Man made the most of long-time ante-post favourite Constitution Hill’s absence when taking the Unibet Champion Hurdle on day one of the Cheltenham Festival today (12 March), going one better than he did in the same race last year.

The seven-year-old, ridden by Paul Townend, trained by Willie Mullins and owned by Mrs J Donnelly, went off 2/5 favourite and justified that, winning by 1¼ lengths over Irish Point, ridden by Jack Kennedy, trained by Gordon Elliott and owned by Robcour.

“He’s a very simple horse to ride,” said Paul. “On the ground I could have probably waited a bit longer but I didn’t doubt his stamina. He’s an old favourite of mine and he deserves a big win like this.

“He’s a champion back home and only Constitution Hill was too good for him last year – he deserves his day in the sun. To add my name to the Champion Hurdle winner list is special.”

Mr Mullins said of State Man’s victory: “I thought Paul would be much more forward on him – I didn’t think he would be fifth jumping the fourth last. He rode with supreme confidence and I never thought he would be that far back and I thought he would be making more use of his stamina. He probably thought the ground would take enough stamina out of the other horses with the [softer] ground.”

Mr Mullins went on to say: “There’s no wow-factor with State Man, but he does what it says on the tin – he’s that type of horse. It’s very hard to be ‘wow’ in that ground, but he’s a good, solid, sound horse and he just gives his running every time. He’s a hardy horse and a tough horse, and a few more like him wouldn’t do any harm.

Trainer Nicky Henderson finished best of the Brits in third with Luccia, ridden by James Bowen and owned by Pump & Plant Services Ltd.

“She’s been great all of the way through – she might be going to stud, but I’ve got to convince [owner] Paul to have another bash. She’s grown up today,” said Mr Henderson, who went on to comment about how Constitution Hill is at home “We’ve got a long, long way to go with him.”

Highland Hunter, ridden by Paddy Brennan, trained by Fergal O’Brien and owned by Nic Brereton and Lindsey Brennan was fatally injured when pulled up in the Ultima Handicap Chase.

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Meet El Fabiolo, the Cheltenham Festival Champion Chase favourite: ‘He’s just so good’

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 08:30:04 +0000

The Willie Mullins-trained El Fabiolo lines up as one of the shortest-priced favourites at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival (12-15 March).

The seven-year-old son of Spanish Moon is unbeaten over fences and his only defeat since arriving from France in 2021 came to the all-conquering Jonbon, where he missed out by just a neck, in the Grade One Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree. El Fabiolo and regular jockey Paul Townend won the Arkle at last year’s Cheltenham Festival.

He lines up for Wednesday’s feature race at the Cheltenham Festival, the Betway Champion Chase, where he meets old adversary Jonbon, Edwardstone, and a host of other star two-mile chasers.

“He was very good when winning the Dublin Racing Festival Champion Chase [in February],” says trainer Willie Mullins. “I thought the best bit of work that [stable-mate] Dinoblue ever did was the week before the Dublin Racing Festival and I felt if El Fabiolo missed a beat somewhere, that mare would be on top of him. But El Fabiolo didn’t miss a beat, he was just so good.

“A lot of people would have thought he’d be that good anyway, but I didn’t when I saw Dinoblue work. I thought he was going to have to be in some order to beat her. To beat her the way he did [by eight and a half lengths], that tells you how good he is, but I just hope he hasn’t peaked too soon for the season.

“El Fabiolo’s prep runs this year have been very good,” continued Willie. “If he can reproduce them and have a clear round in the Champion Chase, he’ll be the one at the top of the market.”

‘He’s in great order’: could State Man take the Champion Hurdle crown at the Cheltenham Festival?

Jennifer Donald — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:00:40 +0000

With confirmation this week from trainer Nicky Henderson that his Unibet Champion Hurdle favourite Constitution Hill will miss this year’s Cheltenham Festival, all eyes have turned to the Willie Mullins-trained State Man, who is the new favourite for Tuesday’s feature race.

Joe and Marie Donnelly’s French-bred seven-year-old son of Doctor Dino won the County Hurdle at the Festival in 2021 and he and jockey Paul Townend came home nine lengths behind the all-conquering Constitution Hill in last year’s Champion Hurdle.

But State Man returns for this year’s race at the Cheltenham Festival with a further four Grade Ones under his belt and a wealth of experience, and his old rival’s defection hands the Closutton training maestro a golden opportunity to make amends in this year’s Champion Hurdle.

“He’s in great order,” says Willie Mullins of State Man. “I thought his performance at Christmas [in Leopardstown’s Matheson Hurdle] was huge, beating Impaire Et Passe.

“I don’t know if State Man wasn’t at his best behind Constitution Hill last year. But he’s a lot more experienced now and he’ll be very race fit. We’re just happy to have the horse in as good order as he is.”

State Man: “He jumps well and he’s so consistent at home”

Willie Mullins is a four-time winner of the Champion Hurdle, lifting the silverware with Hurricane Fly in 2011 and 2013, Faugheen in 2015 and Annie Power in 2016.

State Man has won 10 of his past 11 races, all with Paul Townend in the saddle.

“State Man certainly isn’t in the league of the pizazz of Faugheen or the speed of Hurricane Fly, but he has other things, like he jumps well and he’s so consistent at home,” says the trainer. “I don’t know if he’s better, but he’s stronger. State Man hasn’t won a Champion Hurdle yet, but he’ll have a crack this year and maybe next year.”

Could stable-mate Lossiemouth line up too?

State Man heads the Unibet Champion Hurdle betting ahead of stable-mate Lossiemouth, who is more likely to be routed to the Mares’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

“I know a lot of people would like Lossiemouth to go down the Champion Hurdle route but I’m not even sure if there wasn’t a mares hurdle there that we’d go down that route with a five-year-old,” says Willie of the grey mare.

“Five-year-olds only win once every 35 years, and usually in a bad year. Other people say, ‘Well, very few five year-olds go for it, but I’ve seen them all over the years and the ones that matter go for it and they just can’t line up – they’re physically not strong enough. Lossiemouth will have her chance in future years to have a go at the Champion Hurdle.”

Among the other entries for the Unibet Champion Hurdle, one of racing’s Blue Riband races, are Irish Point for Gordon Elliott, Luccia for Seven Barrows and Not So Sleepy for Hughie Morrison.

Fairytale winner among Grand National entries for 2024

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:12:40 +0000

The Grand National entries for the 2024 race, which takes place at Aintree Racecourse on 13 April, have been announced.

Among the 94 entries is 2023 Grand National winner Corach Rambler, trained by Lucinda Russell and owned by The Ramblers.

Noble Yeats, who won in 2022 and finished fourth last year, is also engaged again as is Vanillier, the runner-up 12 months ago.

There is a 26-strong entry from Irish trainer Gordon Elliott, which beats the record total of 22 he put in the Grand National in 2019. He has won the race three times; once with Silver Birch and twice with Tiger Roll.

The total number of horses accepted to run in the Grand National has been reduced from 40 to 34 for 2024, and the final runners will be confirmed 48 hours before the race, which starts at a revised time of 4pm, moved from the later 5.15pm off time, which had been in place since 2016.

Of the 94 Grand National entries, 61 are Irish-trained, which beats the previous highest number of 54, set last year when Ireland provided 25 of the 39 runners on the day.

The deadline for trainers to enter their horses was on 6 February and the next staging post is 20 February, when the British Horseracing Authority will announce the weight that each horse will be required to carry in the race.

Grand National entries for 2024

Adamantly Chosen (IRE), seven years old, owned by the Watch This Space Syndicate and trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Ain’t That A Shame (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Robcour, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Amirite (IRE), eight years old, owned by Patrick Hale, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Angels Dawn (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr Alfred Sweetnam, trained by S. Curling (Ireland).

Annual Invictus (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr Thomas Michael Smith, trained by Chris Gordon.

Ashtown Lad (IRE), 10 year sold, owned by Darren & Annaley Yates, trained by Dan Skelton.

Ash Tree Meadow (FR), eight years old, owned by Alymer Stud Ltd, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Asterion Forlonge (FR), 10 years old, owned by Mrs J. Donnelly, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Battleoverdoyen (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Pioneer Racing, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Bronn (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Busselton (FR), seven years old, owned by Mr Michael Hilary Burke, trained by Joseph Patrick O’Brien (Ireland).

Capodanno (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Celebre d’Allen (FR), 12 years old, owned by Mr Allan Stennett, trained by Philip Hobbs & Johnson White.

Cepage (FR), 12 years old, owned by The Bellamy Partnership, trained by Venetia Williams.

Chambard (FR), 12 years old, owned by David & Carol Shaw, trained by Venetia Williams.

Chemical Energy (IRE), eight years old, owned by Bective Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Classic Getaway (IRE), eight years old, owned by Cheveley Park Stud, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Coko Beach (FR), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Conflated (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Corach Rambler (IRE), 10 years old, owned by The Ramblers, trained by Lucinda Russell.

Delta Work (FR), 11 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Desertmore House (IRE), nine years old, owned by O.B.P Carroll/Anthony Vaughan, trained by Martin Brassil (Ireland).

Diol Ker (FR), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Dunboyne (IRE), nine years old, owned by S.P O’Connor, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Dusart (IRE), nine years old, owned by Bartlett & Carthy, trained by Nicky Henderson.

Eklat de Rire (FR), 10 years old, owned by Mr P. Davies, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Eldorado Allen (FR), 10 years old, owned by J P Romans & Terry Warner, trained by Joe Tizzard.

Embittered (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Empire Steel (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Alan Wight, trained by Sandy Thomson.

Fakiera (FR), nine years old, owned by Mrs Martina Griffin, trained by Eoin Griffin (Ireland).

Fakir d’Alene (FR), nine years old, owned by Bective Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Fakir d’Oudairies (FR), nine years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by Joseph Patrick O’Brien (Ireland).

Famous Bridge (IRE), eight years old, owned by Hemmings Racing, trained by Nicky Richards.

Fantastic Lady (FR), nine years old, owned by Mr E. R Hanbury, trained by Nicky Henderson.

Farouk d’Alene (FR), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Favori de Champdou (FR), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Fiddlerontheroof (IRE), 10 years old, owned by The Minions, trained by Jim Boyle.

Foxy Jacks (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Ms Rachel Carthy, trained by M. F Morris (Ireland).

Frontal Assault (IRE), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Full Back (FR), nine years old, owned by Mr Ashley Head, trained by Gary Moore.

Fury Road (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Sierra Pacific & Pioneer Racing, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Galia des Liteaux (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr Michael Ariss, trained by Dan Skelton.

Galvin (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mr R. A Bartlett, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Gevrey (FR), eight years old, owned by Denis Gallagher Racing, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Glengouly (FR), eight years old, owned by Roaringwater Syndicate, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Good Boy Bobby (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Dash Grange Stud, trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies.

Hewick (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr T. J McDonald, trained by John Joseph Hanlon (Ireland).

Highland Hunter (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Nic Brereton & Lindsey Brennan, trained by Fergal O’Brien.

I Am Maximus (FR), eight years ole, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Iron Bridge (IRE), eight years old, owned by Hemmings Racing, trained by Jonjo O’Neill.

Its On The Line (IRE), seven years old, owned by C. C. R. Racing Syndicate, trained by Emmet Mullins (Ireland).

James du Berlais (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Janidil (FR), 10 years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Kinondo Kwetu, eight years old, owned by Gunalt Partnership, trained by Sam England.

Kitty’s Light, eight years old, owned by R J Bedford & All Stars Sports Racing, trained by Christian Williams.

Latenightpass, 11 years old, owned by Mrs P. A. Ellis, trained by Dan Skelton.

Le Milos, nine years old, owned by The Jolly Good Partnership, trained by Dan Skelton.

Letsbeclearaboutit (IRE), nine years old, owned by Alymer Stud Ltd, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Limerick Lace (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Longhouse Poet (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Sean & Bernardine Mulryan, trained by Martin Brassil (Ireland).

Macs Charm (IRE), nine years old, owned by Macs Charm Syndicate, trained by Colm A. Murphy (Ireland).

Mac Tottie, 11 years old, owned by Steve & Jackie Fleetham, trained by Peter Bowen.

Mahler Mission (IRE), eight years old, owned by Colm Herron & Rockview Racing Syndicate, trained by John McConnell (Ireland).

Malina Girl (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mrs J. M. Russell, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Meetingofthewaters (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr P. Byrne, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Minella Crooner (IRE), eight years ole, owned by KTDA Racing/Nick Courtney/Cillian Moran, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Minella Indo (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Mr Barry Maloney, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Minella Trump (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mr T. G. Leslie, trained by Donald McCain.

Mister Coffey (FR), nine years old, owned by Lady Bamford & Alice Bamford, trained by Nicky Henderson.

Monbeg Genius (IRE), eight years old, owned by Barrowman Racing Limited, trained by Jonjo O’Neill.

Moroder (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mrs Ann Leftley, trained by Seamus Mullins.

Mr Incredible (IRE), eight years old, owned by Paul Byrne & J. Carthy, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Nassalam (FR), seven years old, owned by John and Yvonne Stone, trained by Gary Moore.

Noble Yeats (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr Robert Waley-Cohen, trained by Emmet Mullins (Ireland).

Ontheropes (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Cheveley Park Stud, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Panda Boy (IRE), eight years old, owned by Old Pals Partnership, trained by Martin Brassil (Ireland).

Placenet (FR), seven years old, owned by Prof C Tisdall & G Thompson, trained by David Pipe.

Revels Hill (IRE), nine years old, owned by Noel Fehily Racing Syndicates-Revels Hil, trained by Harry Fry.

Riaan (IRE), seven years old, owned by Philip J. Reynolds, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Roi Mage (FR), 12 years old, owned by Pryde/Van Der Hoeven/McGladery/Beaumont, trained by Patrick Griffin (Ireland).

Royal Thief (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Run Wild Fred (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Sail Away (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr and Mrs J. D. Cotton, trained by Dan Skelton.

Salvador Ziggy (IRE), eight years old, owned by William Hurley/Mrs Aisling Hurley, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Samcro (IRE), 12 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Shakem Up’arry (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mr Harry Redknapp, trained by Ben Pauling.

So des Flos (FR), seven years old, trained Mr David Lestrange, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Stattler (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr R. A. Bartlett, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

The Goffer (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr Allan Snow, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Threeunderthrufive (IRE), nine years old, owned by the McNeill Family, trained by Paul Nicholls.

Tommie Beau (IRE), nine years old, owned by Simon & Christine Prout, trained by Seamus Mullins.

Tullybeg (IRE), nine years old, owned by Bective Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Vanillier (FR), nine years old, owned by Mrs H. M. Keaveney, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Where It All Began (IRE), eight years old, owned by Patrick & Scott Bryceland, and the McNeill Family, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Lossiemouth annihilates her rivals, but who will she take on at the Cheltenham Festival?

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:00:08 +0000

The Willie Mullins-trained 2023 JCB Triumph Hurdle heroine Lossiemouth annihilated her rivals with a superb success in the 2m1f Grade Two Unibet International Hurdle on Cheltenham Racecourse’s Festival Trials Day on Saturday (27 January).

But although the five-year-old daughter of Great Pretender holds an entry in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, the Mares’ Hurdle appears the more likely target in March.

“We have always thought the world of her,” said owner Rich Ricci. “Constitution Hill is a monster and I’m not running away from him [in the Champion Hurdle], but she is a great filly and you just want to mind her to see how she goes.”

Lossiemouth maintained her 100% record at Cheltenham after taking the lead approaching the last hurdle and she went on to score under jockey Paul Townend by a facile nine and a half lengths from Love Envoi for trainer Harry Fry and jockey Johnny Burke, with the Nicky Henderson-trained First Street third under James Bowen, who had already recorded a win on Cheltenham Festival contender Sir Gino earlier in the day.

Lossiemouth: “She was bombing at home”

The beautiful grey Lossiemouth has now won all bar one of her seven career starts. According to Rich Ricci, the mare will head to the Annie Power at Punchestown after the Cheltenham Festival in March, then “maybe something in France”.

“Maybe next season she is a Champion Hurdle type,” he said. “I was 100 per cent nervous coming into today. I think we took the decision based on Vauban last season not to enter her until after the new year to give her plenty of time to come back.

“They told me she was bombing at home, so I expected her to run really well today, so it is happy days,” he continued.

“She is a very nice filly to look forward to. She is brilliant. I’ve never run away from a fight and I think we have to do what is in line with her abilities. She is young and coming up. I’m just delighted with the performance today as she has been great for us.”

‘He was foot-perfect’: Energumene proves unstoppable with back-to-back wins in the Queen Mother Champion Chase

Gemma Redrup — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 15:54:15 +0000

The Queen Mother Champion Chase result proved to be a rout for Energumene, as he never came off the bridle to win the race by 10 lengths at the Cheltenham Festival today (15 March).

“He was foot-perfect everywhere – he got into a rhythm and jumped brilliantly,” said his jockey Paul Townend. “I let go of him up the straight and was able to take it all in from the back of the last. All credit to Imran who rides and looks after him every day.”

The nine-year-old, who is trained by Willie Mullins and owned by Tony Bloom, travelled and jumped well to win the race for a second year in a row.

“He was spot on today and we got the ground,” said Willie, whose stable is retaining its reputation as a force to be reckoned with this week.

“We were confident going into this race and he has run tremendously – the rain gave us extra confidence,” said Tony.

Edwardstone, who has shown plenty of promise in the past and went off second favourite today, proved disappointing.

“He normally warms up into the race well, but that didn’t happen today,” said Edwardstone’s jockey, Tom Cannon.

Captain Guinness ran a brilliant race at odds of 10/1 to finish second under Rachael Blackmore for trainer Henry de Bromhead and owner Declan Landy.

“That was a great result for him today after hitting the crossbar a few times,” said Rachael.

British hopeful Greaneteen, who is owned by Chris Giles, finished third in the Champion Chase result under Harry Cobden for trainer Paul Nicholls.

“He plugged on well, just making a bad mistake at the ditch,” said Harry.

‘The loveliest horse’: four-timer Cheltenham Festival runner-up delighting in life after racing

Lucy Elder — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 17:23:38 +0000

Four-time Cheltenham Festival runner-up Melon is relishing life after racing, settling into his new job “wonderfully”.

The 10-year-old, trained by Willie Mullins, enjoyed multiple graded victories and was a consistent performer for owners Joe and Marie Donnelly in his racing career.

He bowed out this summer at the same time as Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning stablemate Al Boum Photo, to join Sophie Candy and Joe Stevenson’s yard.

“He is absolutely brilliant. He is the loveliest horse at home to do, which is a novelty for us as we are known for tricky horses,” Sophie told H&H, with a laugh.

“He did his first team chase in the novice at the Belvoir, then stepped up to the intermediate at the Berkeley and won by about eight seconds, so he has taken to it very, very well.”

Joe Stevenson and Melon. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

He joined the pair at the end of June and any plans for Melon’s life now will be led by him.

“He settled in beautifully and he is the easiest horse we have ever had. He’s obviously had a very good foundation in life,” said Sophie, who rides him at home while Joe partners him as part of Team Rideaway in team chases.

The Medicean son, bred by Newsells Park Stud, enjoyed six wins from his 33 starts under Rules, finishing in the frame on 12 other occasions.

“It’s quite a lot for a horse to come out of a yard of the kind he is used to, to one where there are only six in,” Sophie added.

“He has become fresher the more team chasing he has done, but on the gallops he is a total pro and knows exactly what he is doing. Ours always have a few days off after team chasing at the weekends, and the last few Wednesdays and Thursdays he’s put in a couple of squeals and bucks! He is definitely enjoying himself.

“He’s a beautiful, big horse and I do maybe fancy having a go at some Retraining of Racehorses dressage and showing and parades with him, perhaps a bit of hunting because he is such a gentleman. We will see where he wants to take us.”

Energumene: everything you need to know about this key Cheltenham Festival contender

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 14:02:02 +0000

Energumene is one of the top chasers in National Hunt (jump) racing at the moment. Here, we find out a little bit more about him ahead of the Cheltenham Festival (15–18 March 2022).

1. Energumene is an eight-year-old gelding (born on 13 June 2014).

2. He is owned by Tony Bloom.

3. He was bred by Christophe Dubourg in France.

4. Energumene is by Denham Red, who was sire to multiple Grade One winner, Un De Sceaux, and is out of Olinight, who is by April Night.

5. An ‘energumene’ is one who shouts and gesticulates loudly in public, drawing anxious glances from those around.

6. He is trained by top Irish trainer Willie Mullins.

7. So far, Energumene has won eight of his 10 career starts, with one of those coming in his sole point-to-point in January 2018 when trained in Britain by Sophie Lacey, before starting his career under Rules for Willie.

8. He has amassed over £225,000 in prize money to-date.

9. His biggest victories so far came in two Grade One races; one in the Irish Arkle novices’ chase at Leopardstown in February 2021 and the other in the Ryanair novice chase at Punchestown in April 2021.

10. Energumene is declared to run in the Grade One Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival on Wednesday 16 March 2022. He lines up as one of the key contenders for Ireland, in what will be a showdown between him and top chaser, Shishkin, who beat Energumene when they last met in the Grade One Clarence House Chase at Ascot in January 2022.

11. He will be ridden by Irish jockey Paul Townend at the Cheltenham Festival, who has ridden him in all bar three of his races under Rules.

Keep up-to-date with all of Horse & Hound’s Cheltenham coverage this week via horseandhound.co.uk, where you will be able to read all of the latest news and features surrounding The Festival.

Dysart Dynamo: everything you need to know about this key Cheltenham Festival contender

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 11:49:11 +0000

Dysart Dynamo is one of the top novice hurdlers in National Hunt (jump) racing at the moment. Here, we find out a little bit more about him ahead of the Cheltenham Festival (15–18 March 2022).

1. Dysart Dynamo is a six-year-old gelding (born on 10 May 2016).

2. He is owned and was bred by Eleanor Manning.

3. Dysart Dynamo is by Westerner and out of the mare Dysart Dancer, who won over £19,000 during her racing career and who is by Accordion.

4. He is trained by top Irish trainer Willie Mullins.

5. So far, Dysart Dynamo is unbeaten, and has won all four of his career starts in impressive fashion.

6. He has amassed over £35,000 in prize money to-date.

7. His biggest victory so far came in the Grade Two Moscow Flyer novice hurdle at Punchestown in January 2022, where he cruised to an impressive 19-length victory.

8. Dysart Dynamo is declared to run in the Grade One Sky Bet Supreme novices’ hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday 15 March 2022, where he lines up as one of the key contenders for Ireland.

9. He will be ridden by Paul Townend at the Cheltenham Festival, who also rode him to his last victory, but he has also been ridden by Sean O’Keeffe and Patrick Mullins in the past too.

Keep up-to-date with all of Horse & Hound’s Cheltenham coverage this week via horseandhound.co.uk, where you will be able to read all of the latest news and features surrounding The Festival.

12 things you need to know about leading Irish National Hunt trainer Willie Mullins

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 14:24:47 +0000

Find out everything you need to know about National Hunt trainer Willie Mullins ahead of the Cheltenham Festival.

1. Willie Mullins was born in Kilkenny in Ireland on 15 September 1956

2. Willie is a former six times amateur champion jockey in Ireland, winning the 1983 Aintree Fox Hunters’ Chase on Atha Cliath and the 1996 Cheltenham Bumper on Wither Or Which.

3. He has a son, Patrick Mullins, who is currently an amateur jockey riding mainly in Ireland for his father. Patrick is also an assistant trainer to his father. Willie’s wife, Jackie, was a successful amateur rider.

4. He took out his training license in 1988 and he recorded his first trained winner, Silver Bachelor, at Thurles on 18 February 1988.

5. Willie Mullins has been the Irish champion trainer every year since the 2008/2009 season.

6. He is the trainer of the 2005 Grand National winner Hedgehunter.

7. He also trained the mighty Hurricane Fly to win the 2011 and 2013 Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. Hurricane Fly won 24 of his 32 starts over hurdles and in doing so, notched up a world-record breaking 22 victories at Grade One level.

8. He is also trainer of the six times Cheltenham David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle champion, Quevega.

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9. Willie Mullins is the most-winning trainer at the Cheltenham Festival having clocked 72 winners in total by the closing of the 2020 fixture.

10. He trained Al Boum Photo to win the 2019 and 2020 Cheltenham Gold Cups.

11. He is based at Closutton, Muine Bheag, County Carlow, Ireland.

12. He has trained 11 Irish Gold Cup winners; Florida Pearl (1999, 2000, 2001, 2004), Alexander Banquet (2002), Rule Supreme (2005), Kempes (2011), Quel Esprit (2012), Sir Des Champs (2013), Bellshill (2019) and Kemboy (2021).

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find out more about getting the magazine delivered to your door every week.

In-foal super mare retires

Hannah Lemieux — Thu, 18 May 2017 11:22:44 +0000

Annie Power, one of the greatest mares to grace the racecourse, has been retired at the age of nine.

Thankfully, the Willie Mullins-trained super mare’s legacy is set to continue, as she is in foal to Derby winner Camelot. There was speculation around whether she would be seen for a swansong appearance on the track this season.

However, the top Irish trainer and the horse’s owners Rich and Susannah Ricci confirmed their decision to call time on her career, saying she “doesn’t owe anyone anything”.

The daughter of Shirocco’s racing form is exceptional; she has won all bar two of her 17 starts — most recently beating My Tent Or Yours twice in the Grade One Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival and then the Aintree Hurdle last year.

Her famous defeat came in the mares’ hurdle at the Festival in 2015 when she fell at the final hurdle when four lengths clear of her rivals.

She was partnered mostly by jockey Ruby Walsh, but was ridden by Willie’s son Patrick during her early days on the racecourse.

“I discussed things with her owners over the weekend and we decided we were happy to let her retire,” Willie told the Racing Post.

“She retires with an outstanding record, winning all but two of her 17 races. She was a very special racemare and gave us many memorable days. Her Champion Hurdle win last year was definitely one of the highlights of my career as a trainer,” he added.

“To see her landing running over the last in the Champion Hurdle, after what had happened in the mares’ hurdle the year before, was fantastic and seeing her gallop up the hill for victory was very special.

“Her performance in winning the Aintree Hurdle by 18 lengths was an amazing effort. Little did we think at that time it would turn out to be her last race.”

Ryanair boss pulls 60 horses from champion trainer’s yard

Lucy Elder — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 15:54:05 +0000

Ryanair mogul Michael O’Leary has pulled his horses from champion Irish National Hunt trainer Willie Mullins.

The decision comes down to a dispute in fees between the Gigginstown House Stud boss and Mr Mullins. It is understood the horses are being split between other trainers.

Speaking on At The Races yesterday morning (28 September), Mr Mullins confirmed they had “parted company”.

“I have just upped my fees for the first time in 10 years and Gigginstown chose not to pay them — that’s it,” he said.

“I am not willing to try and maintain the yard that I have and the standards I have [for less]. That is the way it is.

“Everyone who comes into my yard is treated the same. I see enough people going to the wall in Ireland all the time.

“We’ve evolved our methods of training, which obviously costs a lot as well, and we’re not prepared to sacrifice that.

“They have been very good to us over the years, bought some fantastic horses — there is a fantastic team of horses going to whoever is going to get them.

“I wish them the best — it is the way it is, you move on.”

The split involves 60 horses, including two-time Cheltenham Festival victor Don Poli as well as a number of other Grade One winners.

“They are very hard horses to replace,” added Mr Mullins. “Even with all the money in the world, lots of people try to buy horses like that, sometimes they just happen.”

In a statement to RTÉ Sport, Gigginstown said it has been unable to reach agreement with Mr Mullins on an increase in training fees.

“We have agreed – with considerable regret – to move the Gigginstown horses to alternative trainers for the coming 2016/17 season,” it read.

“Gigginstown wishes to sincerely thank Willie and all the team at Closutton for the many Grade One races we have won together over the past seven years.

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“We hope that an agreement can be reached at some time in the future which will allow Willie to resume buying and training more graded winners for us.

“While we part at this time with regret, we wish Willie and all the team at Closutton continued success.”

Meet… Cheltenham Champion Hurdle favourite Faugheen and his lad John Codd

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 10 Mar 2015 08:55:59 +0000

The seven-year-old Faugheen remains unbeaten in nine starts and lines up today (Tuesday 10 March) as favourite for the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

He’s one of three contenders in the race for Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins, who also sends out Hurricane Fly and Arctic Fire.

We caught up with his lad John Codd, who has looked after him at Willie Mullins’ yard in Co. Carlow, Ireland, for the past three years and rides him out every day.

John Codd gives us the low-down on Faugheen:

“He’s so straightforward — he knows me and I know him.”
“I’ve always thought that he was good, he’s had the potential from the start.”
“He gives you a great feeling to ride. I used to ride Big Zeb [who won the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham in 2010, trained by Colm Murphy] and he’s a very similar type.”
“I am lucky to look after a horse like him— the others do slag me off a bit for having him though!”
“He started to pick up work about three weeks before the Festival, but he’s so laid back, he doesn’t do a lot and looks after himself.”
“I don’t get nervous, I love watching him. I travel with him all the time.”
“Faugheen’s got plenty of good horses to beat but he’s done nothing wrong and nothing’s beaten him yet. He still needs every bit of luck though. But he’s in his prime right now.”
“Whoever wins, whether it be Hurricane Fly [also trained by Willie Mullins] or Faugheen, I don’t mind because it’s great for the yard.”

Read all about Willie Mullins’ chances at this year’s Cheltenham Festival in this week’s issue of Horse & Hound, out now.

6 reasons why Champagne Fever is the one to beat in the Cheltenham Champion Chase

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 16:00:21 +0000

The dashing grey eight-year-old, Champagne Fever, is trained by Willie Mullins and heads for the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham on Wednesday 11 March.

He is looked after by Diarmuid Keeley (pictured), 24, who has been working for the Irish Champion trainer for six years and has been to Cheltenham every year except for one when he was grounded by a broken leg. We find out from Diarmuid and his trainer why Champagne Fever is a key Cheltenham contender.

1. His personality

“He’s got plenty of character: he could either fall asleep on your shoulder or take a chunk out of you,” says Diarmuid.

2. He’s got Cheltenham form

“His two-mile record counts for itself and if you look at his run in the Arkle at Cheltenham last year [when he finished just a head behind Western Warhorse], it’s good enough to be bang in there this year. He loves Cheltenham,” says Diarmuid.

3. He’s in great shape

“He’s filled in to himself this year — he was almost a skeleton last year and we probably could have found an easier race but he deserved to be there,” says Diarmuid.

4. He’s in the right frame of mind

“I love the fact that we rode him differently [in his last race at Gowran Park] and he responded fantastic and loved it. That’ll put him in a good frame of mind going back to Cheltenham. He’s been out over the stable door since, loving it,” says Willie.

5. He’s got more stamina than you’d think

“[His sire] Stowaway has never had a Grade One winner over three miles so that makes you think a bit different to what we’d thought last year, but his damside looks like three miles-plus so maybe ridden and waited with more he could be better at a trip. But it possibly takes a two and a half miler to win the [two-mile] champion chase anyway,” says Willie.

6. It’s an open race this year

“It’s going to be an open a race as you’re going to get [with doubts about Sire De Grugy and Sprinter Sacre] so if he doesn’t do it this year he’s not going to do it next year as I imagine we’ll be going further in trip after this race,” says Willie.

Read all about Willie Mullins’ chances at this year’s Cheltenham Festival in the current issue of Horse & Hound (5 March 2015), out now.

Willie Mullins prepares for Cheltenham Festival [PICTURES]

Jennifer Donald — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 17:46:02 +0000

Irish trainer Willie Mullins could send over a whopping 50 runners for next week’s Cheltenham Festival (10-13 March) so H&H decided to pay him a visit. Here’s what goes on behind the scenes at a busy National Hunt yard in the run-up to the big event.

1. Third lot of the morning is led by the 11-year-old stable superstar Hurricane Fly, ridden by Paul Townend. He and Faugheen (pictured behind) both line up in Tuesday’s Champion Hurdle.

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2. Willie Mullins’ training base in Co. Carlow is home to nearly 160 racehorses.

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3. The great mare Annie Power limbers up before heading out on to the gallops. She has entries in the World Hurdle and the Mares’ Hurdle but looks likely to line-up for the latter, having recovered from a pre-stress fracture in her hindquarters in December. “Everything has gone fine since,” says Willie.

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4. There’s an organised chaos on the gallops as dozens of horses enjoy a morning spin.

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5. “The Fly” has won a staggering 22 Grade One races. He’s bidding to make it a hat-trick of Champion Hurdle wins, having taken the title in 2011 and 2013.

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6. Willie Mullins, with a little help from his dog, oversees proceedings as several strings are put through their paces.

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7. The six-year-old Valseur Lido has entries in both the RSA Chase and the JLT Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham for prolific owners the Gigginstown House Stud.

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8. Willie’s son Patrick Mullins is an astute jockey.

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9. The five-year-old Alvisio Ville, owned by JP McManus, has only raced twice over hurdles but looks a nice type for either the Supreme Novices’ on Tuesday or the Neptune on Wednesday.

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10. Boston Bob is looked after by Qasim Raza, who has high hopes to lead his charge in to the winner’s enclosure at the Festival – he’s entered in the Gold Cup and the Ryanair Chase.

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11. “We’re looking forward to Cheltenham as much as we’re dreading it,” says an anxious Willie Mullins, who could beat Nicky Henderson’s all-time training record of seven Festival winners in one year.

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12. “It’s going to be the race of the Festival if Hurricane Fly can win,” says Willie Mullins.

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13. Clondaw Warrior watches over proceedings

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14. One of several bright, airy indoor barns at the Co. Carlow stables.

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15. Petite Parisienne enjoys a burst of speed. The four-year-old heads for the Triumph Hurdle on Friday.

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16. After a work-out, all the horses enjoy a splash through the stream before returning to their stables.

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17. Champion Hurdle favourite Faugheen is looked after by John Codd. “He’s so straightforward and he knows me and I know him,” says John. “I’ve always thought he was good, he’s had the potential from the start.”

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18. Florida Pearl, one of the greatest chasers of all time, was once resident in the Willie Mullins yard. He died aged 20 in 2012 but his legend lives on.

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19. Hurricane Fly enjoys a spot of relaxation in the field after his morning’s work is done.

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20. Ballycasey has several Cheltenham entries including the Ryanair Chase, plus some of the handicap races. “I think he’s better than he was the other day [at Ascot] and we don’t have much for him at home other than Irish National,” says Willie.

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21. It’s all about lists in the Mullins household!

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22. Djakadam could be a dark horse for the Gold Cup on Friday. “The extra two furlongs will be a help,” says Willie. “He made a novice mistake at Cheltenham last year but hopefully the experience he’s shown will be enough. I don’t think jumping will be an issue. At Gowran Park recently he had top weight and to me that’s a Gold Cup performance.”

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23. Hurricane Fly is a huge favourite with the crowds – and even attracts some fanmail…

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24. Gitane Du Berlais will be sitting out the Festival after a recent win in France, but the five-year-old mare is one-to-watch for future years.

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Don’t miss this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, out today (Thursday 5 March, 2015), with H&H‘s Cheltenham Festival preview including the full interview with Willie Mullins, tips from the experts and form guide

Top racehorses head for retirement

Martha Terry — Fri, 02 May 2014 13:15:05 +0000

Retirement beckons for two Irish National Hunt stars, after running with tremendous credit at the Punchestown Festival this week (29 April-3 May).

Trainer Willie Mullins called time on the career of supermare Quevega after she finished runner-up to Jetson in Punchestown’s World Series Hurdle on Friday (1 May) — a race she has won 4 times.

This was the first time the 6-time Cheltenham Mares’ Hurdle winner had been beaten since 2009.

The 10-year-old will embark on a new career as a broodmare.

Mr Mullins described Quevega as irreplaceable, and that she will “leave a huge gap in our yard”.

She won 16 of her 24 starts, including 4 Grade 1s and a total of £749,279 prize-money.

Meanwhile, former champion chaser Sizing Europe looks set to round off his own stellar career after clocking his second win in Wednesday’s Boylesports.com Champion Chase (30 April). Connections mentioned the expected retirement, but it has yet to be confirmed after the 12-year-old looked spring-heeled in coming home 5½ lengths clear of David Pipe’s Ballynagour.

Sizing Europe (right) battles with Finian’s Rainbow at Cheltenham 2012 (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding has won every major 2-mile chase, including the Arkle, Tingle Creek as well as the Queen Mother. His owner Alan Potts has said he wanted the horse to finish on a high.

He has won 21 of his 42 starts, 8 of them at Grade 1, and nearly £1.25million prize-money. He was unlucky to be in the same era as Sprinter Sacre — who beat him in both the Queen Mother and the Boylesports.com Champion Chases last year.

H&H’s official betting partner PaddyPower is offering 3/1 on both Hurricane Fly and Jezki in the 5.30 at Punchestown today. Place your bet now

Cheltenham Festival: Sprinter Sacre is star of the show

Horse & Hound — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 17:36:33 +0000

Sprinter Sacre’s appearance in the Sportingbet Queen Mother Champion Chase was the most eagerly awaited of the entire Cheltenham Festival.

And the Nicky Henderson-trained French-bred lived up to his billing, demolishing the field to stroll home 19 lengths clear of former winner Sizing Europe in a canter.

Jockey Barry Geraghty described Sprinter Sacre, last year’s Arkle winner, as “the closest thing to equine perfection around at the moment.”

“I’ve ridden some brilliant horses over the years but the ease and grave he does it with sets him apart.”

Nicky Henderson, for whom this was a third winner at this year’s meeting, said: “He’s nearly the perfect racehorse. He looks it, and it’s rare to find one that looks so good and is so good. We were well aware that anything bar very stunning wouldn’t keep people happy, but that was stunning.”

The Henry de Bromhead-trained Sizing Europe finished six lengths ahead of third-placed Wishfull Thinking.

Twiston-Davies has a New star

The New One gave Gloucestershire trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies a big winner at his local track when taking the Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle.

The trainer’s son Sam rode the handsome son of King’s Theatre. It was a first Festival winner for Sam outside the amateur ranks (he took the Foxhunter on Baby Run in 2010).

They finished four lengths in front of Rule The World and Davy Russell, with favourite Pont Alexandre back in third under Ruby Walsh.

And Alan King was back in the Cheltenham winner’s enclosure with a one-two in the Coral Cup courtesy of Medinas (Wayne Hutchinson) and Meister Eckhart (Aidan Coleman).

Mullins’ luck is still in

After three winners on the first day, Irish trainer Willie Mullins carried on where he had left off, taking the first race, the John Oaksey National Hunt Chase, with Back In Focus.

The Bob Back eight-year-old was ridden by Mullins’ son Patrick, who just collared Nina Carberry and Tofino Bay on the line.

“My father won this race twice [in 1982 and 1984] and it means a lot for me to put my name beside him,” said Patrick, 23.

And the yard signed off the day by winning the Weatherbys Champion Bumper with Briar Hill.

Owned by Andrea and Graham Wylie, Briar Hill went off an unconsidered 25-1 under Ruby Walsh, but produced an impressive turn of foot in the final furlong to streak away from the favourite Regal Encore and AP McCoy.

That’s five winners for Willie Mullins and four for Ruby Walsh so far this week – with plenty more chances to come in the next two days.

First Festival success for Best Mate’s jockey

Jim Culloty, who rode Best Mate to all three of his Gold Cup wins, scored his first Cheltenham triumph as a trainer when Lord Windermere took the RSA Chase.

Jockey Davy Russell didn’t have an entirely smooth run through the race on the Oscar gelding, but managed to produce a run up the hill that gave him a length-and-three-quarters win over Lyreen Legend.

Unioniste, the Paul Nicholls-trained favourite, could only manage fourth.

There will be a precautionary inspection of the main track at 8am tomorrow, followed by an inspection of the cross-country track at 11am. The cross-country race was postponed from Tuesday until Thursday in the hope that the ground would improve. After a day of sunshine and a drying breeze at Cheltenham it should have done, but temperatures are expected to be several degrees below freezing again tonight.

It’s Ruby Tuesday at the Cheltenham Festival

Horse & Hound — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:13:16 +0000

The brilliant Irish team of jockey Ruby Walsh and trainer Willie Mullins swept the board on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival, taking the William Hill Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, the Stan James Champion Hurdle and the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle.

Only six of the seven planned races were run, as the cross-country race has been postponed until Thursday in the hope that the ground on that separate track improves after partly freezing.

Walsh started the day as he meant to go on, with a superbly attacking, front-running ride on Champagne Fever in the Supreme Novices’. The Stowaway gelding, winner of the Champion Bumper last year, just saw off My Tent Or Yours and AP McCoy.

Things didn’t go Walsh’s way in the next race, the Racing Post Arkle Trophy. He pulled up Arvika Ligeonniere, also trained by Mullins, and it was Barry Geraghty’s time to shine on the odds-on favourite Simonsig.

The grey Simonsig wasn’t as impressive as expected, pulling hard and lacking some fluency in jumping. But he was able to give his trainer Nicky Henderson a 47th Cheltenham Festival success, beating Mouse Morris’ Baily Green by more than two lengths.

The third race, the JLT Speciality Chase, went to 18-year-old Brendan Powell jnr and the Colin Tizzard-trained Golden Chieftain. The Tikkanen gelding carried bottom weight in the 24-runner handicap.

But Walsh and Mullins were back in force in the big race of the day. Despite running in snatches and having to be ridden along at halfway, Hurricane Fly accelerated away up the hill and won a second Champion Hurdle.

The son of Montjeu took the race in 2011 but lost his crown to Rock On Ruby last year. The placings were reversed this time, and Hurricane Fly finished two and a half lengths in front of the Harry Fry-trained Rock On Ruby, with the five-year-old Countrywide Flame third for Denis O’Regan and John Quinn.

This victory took Hurricane Fly past the £1.3million mark in prize-money, and made him the highest earning Irish-trained jumps horse of all time.

“This means a great deal,” said Mullins, “but most of all that the horse came back and proved himself. He has justified our faith in his ability, and has done on the track what he had been telling us at home he could do.”

And Walsh and Mullins’ day was completed by Quevega’s victory in the mares’ hurdle. It was her fifth consecutive win in the race and she received the biggest cheer of the day from the crowd.

“It’s an amazing feeling – she’s some mare, isn’t she?” said Walsh. “She has a tremendous little engine and a wonderful attitude and you’d have to say she is trained by a genius.”

The final race of the day, the Rewards4Racing Novices’ Handicap Chase, went to Rajdhani Express. Owned and bred by Cheltenham’s chairman Robert Waley-Cohen and ridden by his son Sam – whose wife Bella gave birth to their first child last weekend – the Presenting gelding carried top weight of 11st 12lb to victory. It was also a second winner of the day for trainer Nicky Henderson.

After extremely low temperatures overnight, racing was postponed by half an hour. The course will be covered up again tonight and a precautionary inspection is planned for 8am tomorrow morning.