Willie Mullins’ Grand National Jockey Bookings Revealed
In a recent revelation, Patrick Mullins, the son of renowned trainer Willie Mullins, has seemingly disclosed the jockey bookings for the upcoming Grand National. However, intriguingly absent from the list he provided is the horse that Willie has expressed a particular fondness for, which raises questions ahead of the £1 million race.
It is widely expected that Paul Townend, Mullins’ primary jockey, will take the reins on the defending champion, I Am Maximus. The JP McManus-owned horse, a formidable contender, has shown inconsistency this season, having been pulled up in the Savills Chase last Christmas and finishing well behind in the Irish Gold Cup last month. Although these appearances were likely preparatory for the Grand National, I Am Maximus was subsequently withdrawn from the Bobbyjo Chase on February 22 due to an infection. Despite these setbacks, Mullins has a knack for getting horses race-ready, so it’s reasonable to anticipate that the 8-1 shot will arrive at Aintree in peak condition.
Interestingly, Patrick has put his name forward for the ride on the promising Nick Rockett, who has been on a winning streak, claiming victory in his last two outings. Patrick was notably emotional after winning the Bobbyjo Chase aboard Nick Rockett during his most recent race. Discussing the potential rides, Patrick told At The Races: “I imagine Paul will ride I Am Maximus – and they’ve got a good few others there. Danny (Mullins) has ridden Minella Cocooner and won the bet365 Gold Cup with him.”
Willie Mullins’ Grand National Runners and Odds
- 8-1 I Am Maximus
- 16-1 Nick Rockett
- 20-1 Grangeclare West
- 25-1 Meetingofthewaters, Minella Cocooner
- 66-1 Appreciate It, Capodanno, Macdermott
- 150-1 Spanish Harlem
Patrick also mentioned, “Brian Hayes had a good spin with Grangeclare West in the Irish Gold Cup – so I’m going to put my name in the hat for Nick Rockett. Whether it comes out or not is another thing. He won two of the big trials in the Thyestes and the Bobbyjo. He’s not big. I’d say he’d be the smallest horse in the field, but he’s got the heart of a lion. He’d be a great ride in it.”
Notably, the one horse Patrick did not mention was the intriguing Meetingofthewaters. This horse, owned by JP McManus, was highlighted by Willie Mullins as one he was particularly keen on when the Grand National weights were first announced. Meetingofthewaters finished seventh in last year’s Grand National, remaining competitive until two fences from the finish before fading. Now, with a year more experience and strength, and carrying 10st 7lbs—one pound less than last year—he could prove to be a serious contender.
Gold Cup-winning jockey Mark Walsh, who recently showcased his skills aboard Inothewayurthinkin in the Gold Cup, seems to be the prime candidate for the ride. He typically has the first choice of JP McManus’ runners, while Jonjo O’Neill Jnr is already set to ride the second favorite, Iroko.
Free Bets – Get the Best Sign-Up Deals and Racing Offers
Commercial content notice: Engaging with one of the offers mentioned in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. Please note that brands pay fees to appear in the most prominent placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to Gamble Responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing.
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose.
- Never chases their losses.
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed.
- Gamcare
- Gamble Aware
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.