King Charles & Camilla: Willie Mullins & York Race Win
King Charles and Queen Camilla are making history! Their racehorse, Reaching High, previously trained by Sir Michael Stoute, will now be trained by Willie Mullins in Ireland, marking the first time a horse owned by a reigning British monarch will be based there. Jody Townend will ride the four-year-old gelding at Leopardstown, with Royal Ascot eyed as the next potential race.This strategic move by the royal couple introduces a fascinating new chapter in their racing interests, as Mullins, a champion Irish trainer, aims to maximize Reaching High’s potential. The horse’s pedigree suggests stamina, aligning with Mullins’ experience in races like the Ascot Stakes. For even more on royals and sports, check out News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for Reaching high as they compete.
King Charles’ Racehorse to Train with Willie Mullins in Ireland
Updated May 28,2025
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will have their racehorse,Reaching High,trained by Willie Mullins in Ireland. This marks the first time a horse owned by a reigning British monarch will be trained in the contry.
Reaching High, previously under the guidance of Sir Michael Stoute, has moved to Mullins’ stables in County Carlow. The four-year-old gelding is slated to compete in the Lady riders Handicap at Leopardstown. Jockey Jody Townend is set to ride.
The royal couple maintains a string of racehorses with various British trainers, including Andrew Balding, John and Thady Gosden, William Haggas, Ralph Beckett, and Nicky Henderson. However, this move signifies a new chapter with champion irish trainer Willie Mullins.
Mullins, a record-breaking trainer who recently secured his second consecutive British jump trainers’ championship, expressed his delight at training for the King and Queen.
“We were introduced to King Charles and Queen Camilla at Royal Ascot last year,” Mullins told the Irish Field. “The next thing, we got a phone call asking if we woudl take a horse for them.”
Mullins also indicated potential plans for Reaching High at Royal Ascot, suggesting the Ascot Stakes over two and a half miles as a suitable target. He noted the horse’s pedigree suggests stamina, making such races a good fit.
Notably, Mullins has a strong record in the Ascot Stakes, with four wins, including one in 2012 with Simenon. In 2013, Simenon was narrowly defeated in the Ascot feature race by Estimate, Queen Elizabeth II’s Gold Cup winner and the dam of Reaching High.
What’s next
Reaching High’s performance at Leopardstown and subsequent training will determine the next steps toward a potential run at Royal Ascot, continuing the royal couple’s involvement in horse racing.