Mullins renews old alliance with Costello clan

Willie Mullins renewed an old alliance today as the champion trainer provided amateur jockey Thomas Costello with his first winner on his family's Asian Master (12/1 - 7s) in the Thank You For Supporting Us 2023 Maiden Hurdle.

Successful in two point-to-points on Asian Master, Costello (22) was having his first ride against professional jockeys and having raced the pace, led four out and beat stablemate Jimmy Du Seuil (1/1f) by three-parts of a length.

Costello is a grandson of late renowned Clare horse trader Tom Costello, from whom Mullins bought his first champion Florida Pearl, and is a son of former champion point-to-point rider Tony Costello.

Costello towers well over six foot and said “I did four years in college in Limerick Institute of Technology and wanted to give riding a shot.

“We thought this was a decent horse so we said we'd send him to Willie's and that I'd go as well. I started there six weeks ago, have picked up plenty experience and Paul (Townend), Danny (Mullins) and Patrick (Mullins) have been very good to me.

“The horse had finished six lengths second to Fact To File in a point-to-point and I thought if he went back to that form he'd have a chance. His jumping was exceptional which helped him get where he got, and won with a lot in hand.

“I didn't know who was behind me but after passing the line I could hear Paul (Townend) say 'well done'. I couldn't believe it and it is great that mam and dad are here - mam was the one who pushed to keep the horse despite offers coming in.

“Myself and dad have had good luck selling horses in recent years and I love it. I try to keep my weight under control and watch it as much as I can.”

Willie Mullins, earlier successful with two winners at Navan today, added “it is great for Tom Costello to ride his first winner and I think the winner's jumping was sharp and all his point-to-pointing experience came into play.

“With his pedigree I didn't think he could win over this trip but to be able to win on a sharp track like this, on this ground, means he must be a nice horse for the future.

“It is a great day for all the Costellos and Mrs Costello is also here. It is a nice alliance to be have back.

“Jimmy Du Seuil (runner-up and stablemate) was just a bit novicey and got out of position a little bit, hoping his class might get him through but the first two horses finished well ahead of the pack so he is a nice horse as well.”