Willie Mullins column: Recent winners and early Aintree thoughts

Our columnist reflects on the career of Kemboy, four recent bumper winners and confirms two horses who are set for Aintree rather than Fairyhouse. Mirazur West is a full-brother to Ferny Hollow who had been showing us plenty at home. We were too late in getting him ready for Cheltenham so he ran at Naas on Thursday and won in what looked a very competitive bumper for this time of year.

Looking at Derek O’Connor’s profile in the saddle it didn’t look like he had to get serious with him and he looks a fair sort for a nice bumper next, possibly at Punchestown if it doesn’t come too soon.

Watch Race Replay

Unlimited race replays of all UK & Irish racing

Access to exclusive features all for FREE – No monthly subscription fee

Join for Free HERE

Log in with your existing Sporting Life, Sky Bet, or Sky Games account. If you don’t have any of those, it’s completely FREE to register! Down at Limerick Patrick rode Junta Marvel for John Turner who beat a very smart Gavin Cromwell filly in Bioluminescence, giving her seven pounds.

It was a really good first run and she looks a really nice prospect for novice hurdles next season. The conditions at Cork last week were very tough but Blizzard Of Oz never came off the bridle to win. He’d been placed in a couple of decent races before that and looks another nice acquisition for Simon Munir and Isaac Souede.

Pat Taaffe got Cuta Des As over the line in tremendous style at Down Royal on Gold Cup day. She was a bargain buy compared to today’s point-to-point prices and looks another who is going to make her mark as a novice hurdler next season. At the other end of the age spectrum, the decision has been made to retire Kemboy.

He gave us some great days over the years, winning the Bobbyjo Chase this term and Grade Ones at Leopardstown (a Savills Chase and Irish Gold Cup), Aintree and Punchestown during a tremendous career. He’s been a great servant to the yard and connections. Ruby Walsh retired after winning the Punchestown Gold Cup on him and now it’s Kemboy’s time to bow out.

I hope he has a long and healthy retirement. The Aintree squad is starting to come together and Gaillard du Mesnil and Carefully Selected are set to form part of our Randox Grand National team. The former has come out of Cheltenham very well.

I’m very happy with him and Aintree would look a big possibility now. He has a nice weight, will handle the distance and the ground won’t be a problem. It will fit in nicely with our plans.

I would think ground wise Carefully Selected might be better at Aintree than Fairyhouse in the Irish National. Traditionally, what they race on in Liverpool would suit him better being a horse who has had a spell on the sidelines. We’ll firm up plans for the forthcoming big meetings nearer the time and I’ll be back next week with my Fairyhouse Easter Festival thoughts.

More from Sporting Life

Safer gambling

We are committed in our support of safer gambling.

Recommended bets are advised to over-18s and we strongly encourage readers to wager only what they can afford to lose.

If you are concerned about your gambling, please call the National Gambling Helpline / GamCare on 0808 8020 133.

Further support and information can be found at begambleaware.org and gamblingtherapy.org.

Tags:

flexible-autos listed on couponmatrix.ukinderwear listed on couponmatrix.ukmahabis listed on couponmatrix.ukmaster-of-malt listed on couponmatrix.ukpolarn-o-pyret listed on couponmatrix.uktriads listed on couponmatrix.uk
flexible-autos listed on couponmatrix.ukFlexible Autos is a leading car rental company committed to providing customers with convenience, quality and affordability. With a wide selection of vehicles available for rental in multiple locations around the world, Flexible Autos makes it easy to find the perfect car for your journey. To make it even easier, Flexible Autos also offers discount codes on their website that can be used when booking your vehicle online or at one of their outlets. Whether you're traveling long or short distances, Flexible Autos’ discount codes will help you save money while still enjoying premium quality service. Book your vehicle with a Flexible Autos voucher today and start saving!
inderwear listed on couponmatrix.ukInderwear is an online retailer specializing in men's underwear, swimwear, and other apparel. They offer a wide variety of products from well-known brands such as Calvin Klein, Adidas, and Nike. Use our Inderwear discount code to enjoy great savings mesh briefs, trunks, boxers and every other kind of undergarment you and your lower half could need. So next time you’re seeking quality, comfortable clothing for your waist, think only of Inderwear. We know that saving money is important to our customers, which is why we work hard to find the best discount codes for Inderwear. If you’d like to show a vested interest in the brand yourself, we’d recommend signing up to the Inderwear newsletter to get exclusive discounts directly from the Inderwear team. Regardless of what you do, Groupon will endeavour to always provide the lowest prices possible on quality underwear. Popular boxer briefs come in a wide assortments of designs and colours thanks to the extensive inventory at Inderwear. These briefs are made from a soft and snug material that will keep you feeling your best all day long. With our Inderwear promo codes, you could potentially secure two sets of briefs for the price of one. You can’t put a value on true comfort but at least you know it comes competitively priced whenever you opt for Inderwear.
mahabis listed on couponmatrix.ukmahabis has revolutionised the humble slipper, creating a super comfortable, highly durable design that can be worn both inside and outside. Make the most of a mahabis discount code to cut the cost of the premium quality price tag. With a 100% wool lining, adaptable foam footbed and durable hybrid sole, these are slippers like no other - and with plenty of styles to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect pair for you!
master-of-malt listed on couponmatrix.ukIf you’re after a tasty tipple, make a beeline for Master of Malt. It’s the perfect place to find a range of delightful drinks, from fine whiskey to cocktail ingredients and everything in between! Make the most of a Master of Malt discount code to save on your next stock up. This is the perfect place to find a gift for someone who enjoys the finer things in life - spoil them with a tasting set, personalised bottle or rare find that they’re sure to enjoy.
polarn-o-pyret listed on couponmatrix.ukWelcome to Polarn o Pyret, bringing fun, functional, fitted and fashionable clothing for babies and children. No matter what age your child is, providing them with durable, functional and designer clothing can help bring their unique character to life. From casual wear to rainwear, nightwear to swimwear, you'll find everything to keep your tots comfy and dry. With Polarn o Pyret voucher codes you can enjoy the product range for less. Love your kids with Polarn o Pyret.
triads listed on couponmatrix.ukAttention all fashionistas, Triads offer contemporary cutting edge fashion for anyone who loves to look and feel their best. Whatever your style, the Triads selection brings home grown designer clothing to spice up any wardrobe. Whether you need formal wear, casual, night or swim, the Triad range is for you. With Triads discount codes you can enjoy your favourite look for less. Stay on point with the help of Triads.