The dual champion chaser Energumene is poised to make his much-anticipated return in the Hilly Way Chase at Cork next weekend. The Willie Mullins-trained 10-year-old missed the entirety of last season due to injury but is targeting a third victory in this feature race.
With the Hilly Way now fitting tightly into the winter schedule, Mullins is also eyeing the Clarence House Chase as a potential next step. The race carries special significance, being the scene of Energumene’s unforgettable clash with Shishkin in 2022.
“The Hilly Way has always clashed with the John Durkan, but now it’s about choosing between running here or at Christmas,” Mullins said. “Energumene will likely skip Christmas and aim for the Clarence House or the Dublin Racing Festival before heading to Cheltenham, all going well.”
Stable Stars on the Move
- Dinoblue is another Mullins runner set for the Hilly Way, while El Fabiolo will likely remain sidelined until the Dublin Racing Festival after a setback.
- State Man, Mullins’ reigning champion hurdler, is expected to bounce back at Christmas following his Morgiana Hurdle defeat. Mullins noted:
- “That run will sharpen him up. He’s following the same path as last season.”
- Last year’s Triumph Hurdle winner Majborough is making the transition to novice chasing. Mullins described the young prospect as “already a fully-fledged chaser,” with the potential to develop into a Gold Cup contender in the future.
Promising Novice Chasers Lined Up
Mullins’ novice chase roster is packed with potential, despite delays caused by an unusually dry autumn.
- It’s For Me, who missed most of last season, is set for a promising novice campaign. Mullins is excited to see the smart hurdler excel over fences.
- Impaire Et Passe, owned by Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, will debut over fences at Fairyhouse on Saturday.
- Dancing City, a triple Grade One winner over hurdles last season, is expected to make his chase debut soon, with potential Grade One entries for Christmas depending on fitness.
Grand National Plans and Beyond
- Grand National winner I Am Maximus will follow a familiar route back to Aintree, targeting the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse after a Christmas run.
With a stacked lineup and multiple rising stars, Mullins’ stable is set to dominate the season’s top contests as the action heats up.