In a momentous turn of events at the Cheltenham Festival, legendary trainer Willie Mullins has achieved a feat beyond his wildest dreams – reaching a century of winners at the prestigious event.
Mullins, whose illustrious career has been marked by triumphs on the racing circuit, expressed his disbelief and gratitude at the milestone, reflecting on the remarkable journey that led him to this monumental achievement.
The crowning moment came as Mullins’ son, Patrick, guided Jasmin de Vaux to victory in the Champion Bumper, marking Mullins’ 100th Cheltenham Festival win. Speaking in the wake of this historic triumph, Mullins admitted that the reality of reaching such a milestone was still sinking in.
"It's hard to know how to feel!"
— Horse Racing Ireland (@HRIRacing) March 13, 2024
Willie Mullins talked to Lydia Hislop on Racing TV after saddling his 100th Cheltenham Festival winner, ridden by his son, Patrick, and tried to put his feelings into words pic.twitter.com/TWmkiyA8pk
“What a journey,” Mullins remarked, his voice tinged with emotion. “As I said, when I went home at 85 with ‘Tourist Attraction’ after winning the Supreme Novice hurdle, I was delighted that I thought that was probably my lifetime ambition to train a winner in Cheltenham. As an Irish trainer, maybe one or two winners come from Ireland. So I didn’t ever expect to come back and get another one. And then the next year we had another one. But no one ever dreamt anyone can get to 100. It’s just amazing stuff. That’s what I think it is.”
Mullins’ achievement stands as a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication to the sport of horse racing. His name is now etched in the annals of Cheltenham history, forever synonymous with excellence and success on the track.
In another groundbreaking moment at this year’s festival, Rachael Blackmore made history by becoming the first female jockey to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Riding the Henry de Bromhead-trained Captain Guinness to victory, Blackmore shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of female jockeys.
The Cheltenham Festival continues to captivate audiences around the world with its thrilling displays of athleticism and skill. As the celebrations unfold and the excitement lingers in the air, Mullins’ century of winners and Blackmore’s historic triumph serve as enduring reminders of the magic and allure of horse racing.
