As we head into the season finale for the jump season, I for one, wait with baited breath to see whether esteemed Irish trainer Willie Mullins can retain his crown.
Currently trailing Dan Skelton, I personally feel it would be a shame for Mullins to come up short, considering his accomplishments in major events this year, which includes his Grand National triumphs.
The final meet of the season at Sandown will see both trainers go head-to-head with both having multiple entries – indeed Mullins seemingly stacking his odds with multiple entries in races which we have seen pay off big time for him this season.
Which Horses Have The Best Chance For Mullins?
For me, I think it will be really interesting to see how Gaelic Warrior handles himself in the 2.25 Oaksey Chase. He’s currently favourite at around 11/8, with Skelton’s only entry, Boombawn a 20/1 to shot.
Gaelic Warrior was one of the big favourites for the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival this year and Mullins must have been thinking he would be a banker for him, though had to pull out of the race due to injury.
Mullins arguably has his best lieutenant on him in Paul Townend as well, which to me shows he means business. With two other entries – Gentleman Da Mee, the third favourite at around 11/2 and with Mark Walsh aboard, this could also be good for a place, while Appreciate It at 22/1 could be an interesting outsider, though given its age (11), it might be too much of a challenge.
The 3.00 Select Hurdle also sees Mullins lead the pack with 13/8 favourite Kitzbuhel under the command of Townend seemingly well liked. For me, the 3.35 is a stand out and strong field. It will be interesting to see how, heavy odds-on favourite, Jonbon handles himself for Nicky Henderson – this season, the majority of his heavy favourites have disappointed. So, Mullins could be encouraged by Energumene (Townend) and I think at around 5/1, this has good value. Il Etait Temps could also be one to watch for him as well.
For the big one of the day – the 4.00 Gold Cup Handicap Chase, Mullins has no less than eight entries and it could well be a clean sweep. Favourite High Class Hero (Townend again), is well liked at around 4/1, while second, third and fourth favourite, Dancing City (13/2) and Grangeclare West (7/1), Minella Cocooner (15/2) have great chances. In the 4.45 Handicap Hurdle, both Jump Allen (5/1 favourite) and Bunting (13/2) are well fancied.
Does Skelton Stand A Chance?
While it may seem like it could be a big day for Mullins, there are a couple of entries in the Skelton stable that could help to spoil the Irishman’s day. For me personally, it is the 1.50 Josh Gifford Novices’ Handicap Chase that gives Skelton an edge and he simply has to capitalise with no Mullins entries. Riskintheground is joint favourite at around 4/1 and is in great form after two recent wins. If third favourite, Take No Chances in the Select Hurdle can position itself well, his 13/2 odds could represent good value and there could be a fascinating battle with Mullins’ Kitzbuhel.
For me, anything could happen in the 3.35 Celebration Chase. Can Henderson finally deliver with one of his short priced favourites – based on current form, I’m not so sure. I mentioned four of Mullins’ entries above and they do have a good shot, Skelton’s Unexpected Party (28/1), could spoil the party if he is still going at the last.
I think another of Skelton’s best chances comes in the final race, with Mostly Sunny the marginal second favourite to Mullins at 11/2 and he’ll be hoping to get the jump on Mullins’ Jump Allen. I can’t wait.
