Sign in Subscribe
Melbourne Cup (Horse race)

Willie Mullins Breaks New Ground with Chester Win

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Irish trainer Willie Mullins made history by claiming his first Chester winner with Absurde in the Listed Virgin Bet Chester Stakes. This milestone victory has significant implications, particularly with regards to Mullins's chances of success in the upcoming Melbourne Cup. Absurde holds a special place in Mullins's affections, having achieved success over obstacles in the County Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, as well as on the Flat. With a strong candidate for the Melbourne Cup in Vauban, Mullins will now head Down Under with a second string to his bow, having secured a valuable win in preparation for the prestigious event.

Key Takeaways:

  • Willie Mullins claimed his first Chester winner with Absurde in the Listed Virgin Bet Chester Stakes.
  • Absurde's victory holds significant implications for Mullins's chances of success in the Melbourne Cup.
  • Absurde holds a special place in Mullins's affections, having achieved success over obstacles and on the Flat.
  • Mullins had not previously won with any of his four previous runners at Chester.
  • Absurde's versatility, including success over hurdles and on the Flat, makes him a valuable asset to Mullins's 2024 campaign.
  • Vauban, who won the Lonsdale Stakes at York, remains a strong candidate for the Melbourne Cup for Mullins.

Statistics:

  • 5/2 the odds at which Absurde was sent-off to win the Listed Virgin Bet Chester Stakes.
  • 15/8 the odds at which favourite Caius Chorister was sent-off to lose to Absurde.
  • 1.25 lengths the winning margin by which Absurde defeated Caius Chorister.
  • 22,000 the size of the crowd that attended the Chester meeting where Absurde won.

Sources:

  • [https://www.racingtv.com](https://www.racingtv.com)

Read more