Milanese Soldier Triumphs at Irish Grand National
The Milanese Soldier surprised spectators with a remarkable victory at the Boyle Sports Irish Grand National held at Fairyhouse. This seven-year-old horse, trained by Emmett Mullins, showed remarkable promise despite his limited experience, having run only five times prior to this Easter Monday event.
Having participated in four runs over fences this season, Soldier in Milan was backed as the 6-1 favorite, building momentum following his success at last spring’s Punchestown Festival. Despite finishing fourth in the Grade 3 New Horse Race at Thurles last month, confidence was high as he set the pace from the very start, demonstrating his growing familiarity with the competitive landscape under the guidance of jockey Donner Mailer.
Taking the lead from British challenger Monbeg Genius, Soldier in Milan maintained his position before navigating the third-to-last fence, where his closest competitor, Kiss Will, unfortunately fell. While Shower Preciation and The Enabler attempted to chase him down, neither could match the pace of the impressive winner, who crossed the finish line 16 lengths ahead. Some bookmakers now predict Soldier in Milan may have a potential shot at next year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup, with odds set at 33-1.
Mullins expressed his disbelief after the race, remarking that the experience still hadn’t fully registered. He noted that the horse performed flawlessly, even as he grew concerned about managing the race strategically towards the final fences. Mullins praised Mailer’s tactful riding, emphasizing the importance of patience throughout the race.
Addressing the decision to forego a hurdles campaign, Mullins acknowledged the risk but remained confident in the horse’s innate talent to rise above his inexperience. He described Soldier in Milan as agile and intelligent from the start, indicating that the horse has the potential for even greater achievements ahead.
Mullins further mentioned the positive ambiance surrounding this victory, expressing gratitude for the support received and highlighting the importance of this win in their plans. By maintaining careful training regimens and limiting the horse’s races, the team executed their strategy effectively, despite the inherent challenges of racing.
Energumene Shines in Fairyhouse Chase
In another notable race, dual Queen Mother Champion Chase winner Energumene proved that age is just a number with a commanding victory in the Underwriting Exchange Fairyhouse Chase. Now 12 years old, this veteran horse, trained by Willie Mullins, demonstrated that he remains full of zeal and ability, especially following his wins at the Cheltenham Festivals in both 2022 and 2023.
Racing over two and a half miles for the first time since November 2020, Energumene, racing as a 9-4 favorite, started strong and quickly established a significant lead over stablemate Brad Destiny. However, he eventually faced stiff competition from Gordon Elliott’s favored horse, Found a Fifty, who ultimately secured a win, leaving Energumene in third place.
Tragically, the race was marred by the injury of Mullins’ third-placed Saint Sam, who suffered a fatal fall three fences away from the finish line. Reflecting on Energumene’s exceptional performance, Mullins expressed his astonishment at the horse’s capabilities, considering him to still display the vigor of a younger competitor. He was also keen to continue evaluating the horse’s future in the racing scene, particularly contemplating participation in the upcoming Punchestown Festival.
Mullins concluded by highlighting Energumene’s remarkable run, suggesting a return to County Kildare could be in the cards as they await discussions with owner Tony Bloom about future plans for the seasoned equine star.
