Trainers often seek to conquer the worlds of both flat and jumps racing, despite the rarity of horses excelling in both disciplines. As Punchestown issues in a grand finale to the big names of the jumps scene, Willie Mullins, one of the finest in the business, faced a rare disappointment in his most recent attempt at winning the prestigious Melbourne Cup.

However, recent betting trends suggest he may be gearing up for another shot at Australia’s premier race, famously known as the ‘Race That Stops A Nation.’

Let’s delve into the prospects of Mullins’ top jumps horses eyeing the Melbourne Cup this November.

Vauban

Vauban’s versatility shone through in 2022 when he clinched victory at the Cheltenham Festival’s JCB Triumph Hurdle. Despite a setback in the 2023 Champion Hurdle, Mullins decided to test Vauban’s abilities in flat racing. The move paid off handsomely with wins at Royal Ascot and Naas, earning him a spot in the Melbourne Cup line up.

Although Vauban’s first attempt Down Under ended in disappointment with a 14th-place finish, he remains a contender to return with a strong challenge. Mullins has already confirmed his entry in the Boodles Yorkshire Cup, with Royal Ascot and Glorious Goodwood also on the horizon before a potential return to Australia.

Currently, Vauban stands as the 16/1 favourite for redemption in the Melbourne Cup.

Absurde

Following a triumph in last year’s Ebor at York, Absurde aimed for Melbourne glory but ultimately had to make do with seventh place. Mullins swiftly redirected Absurde to jumps racing, where he secured an unexpected victory in Cheltenham’s County Hurdle, a rare double-figure odds winner for Closutton. However, an upcoming entry in the Yorkshire Cup suggests Mullins intends to launch another dual assault on Melbourne.

Constitution Hill

Willie Mullins may not be the only successful jumps trainer to target the Melbourne Cup later this year. Something of a wildcard choice, Constitution Hill has demonstrated supreme prowess over jumps, including victory over Vauban. With a break since missing Cheltenham, and a narrow escape from an attack of colic, trainer Nicky Henderson may consider a flat season is the way to go, eyeing prestigious races like the Ascot Gold Cup, Queen Alexandra or the Melbourne Cup.

Bookmakers are intrigued at the prospect, offering odds of 25/1 for Constitution Hill’s potential Melbourne triumph.

Whichever way the Mullins and Henderson stables eventually decide to go, we’re sure to have an exciting flat racing season ahead of us.