26-04-2025
‘This is not normal' – Willie Mullins reflects on another emotional British jumps trainer title triumph at Sandown
WILLIE MULLIINS has once again secured the British trainers' championship after prevailing in a dramatic final day battle with Dan Skelton.
The legendary
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Willie Mullins with his Champion Trainer trophy fro the 2024-25 season at Sandown Park Racecourse
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Mullins was delighted with the historic feet as he weighed-in on another success
And he
Skelton entered the final day holding a lead of over £68,000, but Mullins turned the tables thanks to a commanding win for Oaksey Chase favourite Gaelic Warrior, followed by an upset when Il Etait Temps defeated odds-on shot Jonbon in the Celebration Chase.
Mullins then cemented his title by saddling the second, third, fourth, and fifth horses in the bet365 Gold Cup.
His triumph once again leaft Skelton having to settle for the runner-up spot.
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But the famed trainer admitted that he was very nervous heading into today's decider at Sandown.
Speaking
"We were running horses back quicker than we usually do, so you can't come here with confidence.
The 68-year-old also admitted that he has to pinch himself as he reflected on his incredible success.
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He added: "We pinch ourselves and I say to my son, don't think this is normal, this is not normal. Don't take it for granted."
It looks like next week's Punchestown Festival will be up next for her, where she is set to complete a Mullins squad featuring the likes of Galopin Des Champs, Kopek Des Bordes and State Man.
Jim Delahunt's FREE horse racing tips - Mullins v Skelton - the final battle. Sandown tips plus one from Navan on the flat
British trainers might feel like waving the white flag altogether, knowing Mullins' true top talent is staying at home.
That's not to say they didn't help him win though, mopping up the top races at Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals over the past two months.
Mullins made history when winning the title in 2024.
He became the first Irish-based handler since Vincent O'Brien 70 years earlier to be crowned king.
And the truth is it will take a monumental effort from the likes of Skelton, Paul Nicholls and Nicky Henderson to stop him again next year.
