Soldier In Milan proved his class at Fairyhouse, storming home in the Boyle Sports Irish Grand National on Easter Monday. The Emmet Mullins‑trained seven‑year‑old had only five rule starts, including a Punchestown bumper win, yet entered as a well‑backed 6-1 favourite. Guided by Donagh Meyler, he seized the lead from Monbeg Genius and never looked back.

He pressed the advantage entering the final straight, clearing the third fence from home as chief rival Kiss Will fell heavily, leaving a clear run. Showappreciation and The Enabler closed but could not threaten the dominant victor, who finished a staggering 16 lengths ahead. Bookmakers responded with a 33-1 price for next year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Mullins praised the horse’s composure, noting the gamble of skipping a hurdle campaign paid off and that the colt remained fit and happy despite a modest 95 percent rating. The triumph marks a rare favourite win in the Irish National and fuels speculation about a future Grand National or Gold Cup bid, though connections say no firm plans are set.

Veteran Energumene also shone, winning the Fairyhouse Chase by six lengths, confirming his staying power at twelve. Paul Townend rode him effortlessly, while stablemate Saint Sam suffered a fatal fall, casting a somber note on an otherwise historic day for the Mullins yard this season.