Mullins quietly upbeat on chance of Ethical Diamond repeat
Champion jumps trainer broke new ground at last year’s Breeders’ Cup.
After a momentous visit to Del Mar 12 months ago, Willie Mullins is back at the Breeders’ Cup with Ethical Diamond seeking more US glory, this time in Keeneland.
The six-year-old stormed home late in the hands of Dylan Browne McMonagle to down Rebel’s Romance and give the leading force in jumps racing a historic first victory at the end-of-season world championships.
Now having had his season geared towards a return Stateside, he will attempt to defend his Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf on Saturday.
“I think it’s a much more competitive race this year, but I think we have trained for it while a lot of the others have had a busy autumn,” said Mullins.
“I just had a look at him and he is in great shape. He’s been doing everything well, going into the stalls and drinking well.
“He’s drawn one which means different tactics and we might have to jump and go, but we will leave that to Dylan. He’s more mature this year and easier to ride while he settles better.”
Ethical Diamond was second to Sir Mark Prescott’s reopposing Tiffany when last seen, but Mullins is undeterred and added: “He got into a lot of traffic problems at Kentucky Downs, but we are here. I never dreamed I’d have one good enough to run at the Breeders’ Cup with the type of horses we have.”