Amo Racing Backs Mullins as Coolcullen Era Takes Shape
Kia Joorabchian has thrown his weight behind Emmet Mullins, calling the Carlow trainer a very bright young man with a big future. The move comes as Mullins settles into Jim Bolger's old Coolcullen yard, a place with deep roots in Irish racing.
Amo Racing, the operation run by Joorabchian, has sent two horses to Mullins: Dallas Star and Square Necker. Both were previously trained elsewhere, but now they will call Coolcullen home. A yearling is also on the way, with more expected to follow.
Joorabchian spoke with the kind of quiet confidence you'd expect from a man who knows the game well. He said Mullins is doing great work there, with owner Paul Byrne also putting in significant investment. It's a partnership built on belief, not just money.
We decided to give him a little bit of support and hopefully succeed and prevail, Joorabchian said. They're two and we've given him a yearling as well, a Flat horse that we've got in partnership. So he'll have three and then probably a couple more. We'll probably have four or five with him at the end of it.
What Does Dallas Star's Hurdling Entry Mean?
Dallas Star, who ran well at Listed level on the Flat last year, has an entry for his hurdling debut at Navan on Saturday. Joorabchian admitted he didn't know about the switch, but he wasn't worried. He guessed it was for horses hitting a different peak on the Flat, and noted that winter can get a bit boring without runners.
It's a pragmatic approach, and one that fits Mullins' reputation for versatility. The man knows how to get the best out of a horse, whatever the code.
Dr Rascal's Season Ends Early, But Hope Remains
Meanwhile, Oliver Cole has decided to put Dr Rascal away for the winter. The colt lost his unbeaten record in the Goffs Vincent O'Brien National Stakes at the Curragh, finishing fifth behind Folsom Blues after a rough passage up the straight.
Cole believes the ground was against him. He said the horse is probably better on fast ground, and that he didn't have that turn of foot on the softer surface. It's a line through the run, and now the focus shifts to next season's English 2,000 Guineas.
Despite the setback, Cole remains convinced of the horse's ability. The form of his Group Two Vintage Stakes win is working out well, with third-placed Al Hudaiba going on to win the Grade One bet365 Summer Stakes at Woodbine. That's a good sign.
What's Next for Mullins and Coolcullen?
This is a new chapter for Mullins, and having Amo Racing on board is a strong statement. The yard has history, the trainer has talent, and the horses have potential. It's the kind of story that makes you feel good about Irish racing.
With four or five horses expected in total, Coolcullen is building something real. It's not just about numbers, though. It's about trust, patience, and the simple joy of seeing a plan come together.
As Joorabchian put it, they like to support these guys. And right now, Emmet Mullins is a guy worth supporting.
Photo: Irish Independent