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Patrick Mullins Eyes Grand National Glory with Nick Rockett
Closutton rider hopeful of high-profile Aintree ride as Willie Mullins targets more history
As the 2025 Randox Grand National looms into view, anticipation continues to build around which horses will line up – and crucially, who will ride them. One name drawing increased attention is Nick Rockett, the progressive chaser trained by Willie Mullins, with Patrick Mullins making clear his interest in partnering the exciting eight-year-old in the world’s most famous steeplechase.
Following an impressive winter campaign, Nick Rockett has emerged as a serious contender for the Aintree marathon, and with Paul Townend likely to side with defending champion I Am Maximus, Patrick Mullins could be in line to take the reins on one of the leading Irish hopes.
Nick Rockett: A Star on the Rise
Nick Rockett has gone from strength to strength this season and now looks well-equipped to take on the unique challenge of Aintree’s four miles, two and a half furlongs, and 30 formidable fences.
- Thyestes Chase, Gowran Park (January 2025): A career-best performance, powering through heavy ground to claim one of Ireland’s most prestigious handicaps.
- Bobbyjo Chase, Fairyhouse (February 2025): Cemented his Grand National credentials with another strong staying effort under Townend.
These victories have seen Nick Rockett cut to 20/1 in the ante-post betting markets, with many tipsters now viewing him as a leading challenger to stablemate I Am Maximus.
Speaking ahead of the race, Patrick Mullins confirmed his interest in the ride:
“I’d love to partner Nick Rockett at Aintree. He’s a strong stayer, he jumps well, and he’s improving all the time. With Paul [Townend] likely on I Am Maximus, I’ll be waiting by the phone if Willie gives me the nod.”
Willie Mullins’ Strong Hand at Aintree
Willie Mullins, who made Grand National history last year with I Am Maximus, could once again send a formidable raiding party to Merseyside, and Nick Rockett is just one of a number of leading chances.
The Grand National victory in 2024 helped Mullins on his way to becoming the first Irish-based trainer in over 70 years to claim the British Champion Trainer title, a feat he clinched on the final day of the season at Sandown. A second National success in as many years would not only enhance his growing dominance in British racing but also bolster his position in what is shaping up to be another fiercely competitive trainers’ championship.
While final declarations are still to be confirmed, the Mullins team could field several runners across the three-day Aintree Festival. Another Closutton star likely to feature prominently is Lossiemouth, who could take on the brilliant Constitution Hill in a mouth-watering rematch.
Lossiemouth vs Constitution Hill: Aintree Hurdle Showdown?
Fresh from her second consecutive win in the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, Lossiemouth is reportedly being aimed at the Aintree Hurdle, where she could lock horns with Constitution Hill, the reigning champion hurdler.
The pair met at Kempton’s Christmas Hurdle, where Constitution Hill was the emphatic winner. However, with Lossiemouth in sparkling form and Constitution Hill returning from a rare setback earlier in the season, racing fans are eagerly anticipating a possible showdown between two of the most exciting hurdlers in training.
If the race materialises, it will serve as one of the marquee events of the Aintree Festival, offering a fascinating tactical battle between two contrasting talents.
A National Narrative Full of Possibilities
Should Patrick Mullins partner Nick Rockett in the Grand National, it would mark a significant moment in the jockey’s career. Although best known as an amateur rider and son of Ireland’s most successful trainer, Patrick has built an impressive résumé, particularly at the Cheltenham Festival and in prestigious Irish races. A Grand National ride—and perhaps a win—would elevate his standing even further.
For Willie Mullins, the chance to win consecutive Nationals and continue his cross-channel dominance is clearly within reach. With a string of classy chasers, top-class hurdlers, and a team brimming with confidence, Mullins may once again leave Aintree with a trophy—or two.
Looking Ahead to Aintree 2025
As the field for the 2025 Randox Grand National begins to take shape, all eyes are on the final declarations, expected early in Grand National week. Among them, Nick Rockett stands out as a horse on the rise with all the attributes needed for Aintree success: stamina, scope, form, and a touch of class.
If Patrick Mullins is given the leg up, it will add another layer of intrigue to what is already a highly anticipated renewal. With the race scheduled for Saturday, 5 April at 16:00, racing fans around the globe are counting down to another thrilling chapter in the sport’s greatest steeplechase.
Whether it’s Nick Rockett, I Am Maximus, or another rising star, Aintree is ready to host another historic spectacle – and Team Mullins is right at the heart of the story.
