Racing has never seen anything like this before
KING Charles and Willie Mullins have struck an historic deal – which will see the legendary handler train a hugely ‘impressive’ horse bred by the monarch’s late mum.
The amazing link-up, reported by The Irish Field, means Mullins will look after the brilliantly-bred Reaching High in a first-of-its-kind agreement.
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Queen Camilla and King Charles III will be the first reigning monarchs to have a horse trained in Ireland – after striking a deal with legendary handler Willie MullinsCredit: Getty
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Willie Mullins, alongside wife Jackie, left, is the biggest name in racing and his wins this year include the Grand National, where son Patrick, middle, rode 33-1 Nick Rockett to glory at AintreeCredit: PA
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Reaching High demolished rivals on his only win to date
It is believed Reaching High will be the first horse ever owned by a reigning monarch to be trained in Ireland.
Formerly with the now-retired Sir Michael Stoute, Reaching High blew punters away with a seven-length rout of rivals in the Racing League at Wolverhampton last August.
That was his sole win in eight starts – but it looks like there is so much more to come from the four-year-old gelding.
And King Charles and Mullins – who was crowned Irish and British champion jumps trainer last season – are targeting Royal Ascot.
Reaching High’s mum is Estimate, the late Queen’s favourite horse who won the Ascot Gold Cup in 2013.
Video of Queen Elizabeth II celebrating the monumental victory alongside trusted confidante and racing adviser John Warren was played the world over.
And Reaching High’s dad is none other than the awesome Sea The Stars – one of the greatest racehorses ever who won the 2000 Guineas, Derby, Coral-Eclipse, Juddmonte, Irish Champion Stakes and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 2009.
Mullins said he and King Charles, who owns horses alongside wife Queen Camilla, were introduced at last year’s Royal Ascot.
