Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Emotional Scenes at Aintree: Willie Mullins Celebrates Son Patrick’s Grand National Victory
Veteran trainer Willie Mullins experienced a surge of emotion after his son, jockey Patrick Mullins, steered Nick Rockett to a memorable triumph in the Grand National at Aintree on Saturday. The 33-1 outsider demonstrated remarkable stamina, holding off a strong challenge from last year’s victor, I Am Maximus, to secure a captivating win under sunny skies. The horse racing world watched as Mullins, who also trained the horses finishing second and third, witnessed his son’s inaugural Grand National victory from the stands, displaying visible emotion.
Trainer Willie Mullins Overcome with Pride
The 68-year-old Mullins was deeply moved observing his son’s achievement and struggled to maintain composure during a post-race interview broadcast by ITV. Visibly taking deep breaths to regain his calm when approached by interviewer Matt Chapman for race commentary, Mullins initially found it difficult to articulate his feelings. His initial response, punctuated by a sharp intake of breath, was simply: “It was some result, yeah.”
Chapman remarked on Mullins’ apparent disbelief at the victory, considering his extensive accomplishments in the sport. In a trembling voice, Mullins responded, “Yeah, to be able to let your son…” He then briefly shielded his face from the camera with his hat, overcome by emotion. Chapman acknowledged his emotion, saying “take a moment” while placing a comforting arm around his shoulder.
Tears welling up, Mullins continued, “It’s lovely to be able to give your son a ride in the National, but to be able to win it is just unbelievable.” The interview concluded shortly after as Mullins moved away from the paddock area.
Winning Jockey Patrick Mullins Hails ‘Incredible’ Victory
Victorious jockey Patrick Mullins was ecstatic as he conveyed his elation to ITV, stating, “I’m too out of breath to say anything. It is incredible.” He described the race, saying, “I got too good a start and had to take him back, but he jumped fantastically.”
Mullins Jr. also spoke of the personal significance of the win: “It is a dream from when I was a kid. It’s so cliché, but when I was a kid, I watched videos, so this is very special.” Regarding the winning steed, he added, “He’s fine – I need a cold bath myself. He’s not big, but he is brave as a lion.”
Owner Stewart Andrew Extols Winning Horse’s Quality
Stewart Andrew, the owner of Nick Rockett, effusively praised the horse’s performance in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live. “I can’t tell you. Different class,” Andrew exclaimed. “Everybody had written the horse off; he’d drifted in the betting. He won the best two trials in Ireland easily. He’s a class horse.”
Continued Success for Mullins Family
This Grand National victory marks another highlight in what has been a remarkable period for the Mullins family. Trainer Willie Mullins recently achieved significant success at the Cheltenham Festival last month, equalling his record by training 10 winners at the prestigious annual event.