Irish maestro Mullins gallops to grand national glory, eyes historic title

Irish maestro Willie Mullins secured a thrilling victory at the Grand National on Saturday at Aintree, propelling him to the forefront of the British jumps trainer standings and putting him on course to potentially emulate the legendary Vincent O’Brien’s historic achievement from seven decades ago.

Mullins’s charge I Am Maximus dashed to a spectacular win, establishing Mullins as the leader in the British jumps trainer championship, boasting a lead of over £50,000 ($62,000) ahead of Dan Skelton, with Paul Nicholls, the three-time defending champion, closely trailing behind.

The culmination of the British season looms on the horizon with Finals Day at Sandown next Saturday.

Mullins, renowned for his prowess in training, envisions I Am Maximus as a contender for the Cheltenham Gold Cup next year, although his other champion Galopin des Champs might have differing ambitions. Yet, the immediate goal for Mullins is to build on his recent success and continue his streak of accomplishments.

“It’s game on I think, isn’t it?” remarked Mullins enthusiastically, suggesting his readiness to take on more challenges. “Sandown, Ayr, Perth, wherever we can see a prize—I think we have to go for it now.”

The 67-year-old, currently poised for an 18th Irish trainers title, expressed that winning the British crown wasn’t initially in his sights. However, after a stellar performance at the Cheltenham Festival—securing nine victories including the prestigious Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle—coupled with the Grand National triumph, Mullins finds himself on the brink of becoming only the second foreign-based trainer to clinch the coveted British jumps trainer title since Vincent O’Brien’s feat in the 1950s.

Reflecting on his unexpected century of winners at the Cheltenham Festival, Mullins shared, “Fantastic. We never set out to have 100 winners at the festival. No one thought it was possible. We’re gobsmacked it happened.”

Mullins, typically humble in his success, attributed much of his achievements to his dedicated team, emphasizing the critical role they play in his stable’s triumphs.

For now, Mullins basks in the joy of his recent Grand National victory, aiming to savor the euphoria akin to his past triumphs, particularly recalling Hedgehunter’s win in 2005.

“That’s the way the Grand National makes you feel,” Mullins reflected. “That you’re the Grand National winning trainer. I hope to have the same feeling again this year.”

Mullins’s ascension in the British jumps racing scene not only underscores his exceptional horsemanship but also sets the stage for a potentially historic chapter in his illustrious career, drawing parallels to the legendary Vincent O’Brien’s achievements from over half a century ago.