In a significant development for the upcoming Dublin Racing Festival, champion trainer Willie Mullins has made the strategic decision to withdraw last year's Supreme Novices' Hurdle winner, Kopek Des Bordes, from the prestigious meeting. This move effectively cancels one of the most eagerly anticipated match-ups of the weekend, leaving the horse's owner, Charles McCarthy, describing himself as 'broken hearted' but ultimately supportive of the call.
A Major Clash Cancelled at Leopardstown
The six-year-old gelding was notably absent from declarations for the Goffs Irish Arkle Chase this Saturday at Leopardstown. He had been set for a thrilling second start over fences against Gordon Elliott's charge, Romeo Coolio, in what promised to be a highlight of the festival. This withdrawal follows a previous minor setback that caused the horse to miss a planned outing over the Christmas period, with his return to competitive action now being delayed once more.
Owner's Disappointment and Respect for the Trainer
Charles McCarthy revealed that Mullins contacted him directly to deliver the news. "Willie rang me this morning and said he won't run," McCarthy stated. "He's working well and everything is positive but he's just not happy to take on these horses at the moment. He just needs a little more time and that's what he doesn't have before Saturday."
Despite his personal disappointment, McCarthy expressed unwavering confidence in Mullins' judgement. "I asked him what was plan B and he said we're going straight to Cheltenham. I never challenge Willie and I respect his calls, I'd rather have a horse than not a horse. I'm broken hearted he won't run on Saturday like everyone else but we have to put the horse first."
Revised Targets and Market Movements
With the Dublin Festival now off the table, the focus shifts squarely to the Cheltenham Festival in March. McCarthy confirmed that the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham is the most likely target, where Kopek Des Bordes could face a mouthwatering clash with Nicky Henderson's current favourite for the race, Lulamba.
"We're aiming for the Arkle and at the moment that's where we are thinking," McCarthy added. "Willie has his eyes firmly set on Cheltenham and didn't want to jeopardise the horse this weekend, so the Arkle is what we're gunning for."
Following this announcement, bookmaker William Hill has eased the horse's odds for the Cheltenham Arkle, moving him out to 7-2 from his previous price of 5-2. This strategic withdrawal by Mullins, while disappointing for festival-goers, underscores the long-term planning and horse welfare priorities that dominate top-level National Hunt racing, with the ultimate goal being peak condition for the sport's premier championship meeting in the spring.
