Danny Mullins rides 500th winner

Danny Mullins registered a 500th career winner today as Leish Oscars Son (11/2) aptly scored as first-reserve in Tramore's Doneraile Walk Beginners Chase, for trainer Gavin Cromwell.

Getting 'in' at 8am following the withdrawal of Appian Way, Leish Oscars Son won under a well-timed ride, providing the milestone success for Mullins whose biggest wins have come as stand-in jockey on Cromwell's Flooring Porter in two Stayers Hurdles.

Mullins, himself 'first reserve' on his uncle Willie Mullins' horses, said “the guys from Tote (his sponsor) were keeping me updated so it is a nice number to get. It is good to get it on a Gavin Cromwell-spare which has been good to me over the years!

“Of my first seven rides on the flat, I think five won but it took me 50 to get a winner over jumps!

“I'd have to say winning the first Stayers Hurdle on Flooring Porter was extra special and the fact that there was a lockdown, with nobody there, didn't take away anything from it. It was unbelievable and is one winner which sticks out.

“Hopefully there'll be a good few more years left in me.”

Mullins, who won the 2021 King George on Tornado Flyer, added “I had never ridden this horse (Leish Oscars Son) before but Gavin Cromwell-spares have been good to me over the years!

“He was a little bit disappointing the last day but you can forgive him that and he had a bit of experience, which always helps in a rated beginners. For a big horse he acted well around the tight track and it opens up options for him.

“He handles soft ground which is nice at this time of the year and he did everything right today.”

Quotes from Donal Murphy