Stattler and Patrick Mullins © Photo Healy Racing
Heavily supported newcomer Stattler made a winning debut at Fairyhouse today as the Willie Mullins trained gelding landed the concluding Racing Again January 25th Bumper under the Champion Trainer's son Patrick Mullins.
The son of Stowaway carries the Simonsig and Mullins' National Hunt Chase winner Rathvinden colours of Ronnie Bartlett and today was well supported throughout the day to make a winning debut.
Returned the 8/13 favourite, Stattler justified those odds when beating Jimmy Jimmy by six and a half lengths.
Mullins later reported “I was relieved they didn't call off racing (which passed a 7.45am inspection). I wanted these conditions for this fella as he galloped very well in these type of conditions at home.
“He's a staying chaser, that's what he is really. I'll have a chat with Patrick and see if he wants to go for a winners bumper with him.
“I'll maybe have a chat with the owner as well and see if he wants to hurdling this year and chasing next year. He's an out-and-out jumper rather than a bumper horse.
“Ian Ferguson had him and he said he's a right jumper. We've jumped a few hurdles with him but never jumped fences. Ian schooled him and thinks he's a right type. He'd know so I'm happy to take his advice.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
