Highclere team up with Willie Mullins Highclere Thoroughbred Racing has added Willie Mullins to their roster of jumps trainers with their recent purchase of Caro Des Flos. The four-year-old will be Highclere's first horse in training with the 10-times champion trainer, as well as their first ever National Hunt horse in Ireland. Caro Des Flos is a French-bred son of Tiger Groom, sire of Ar Mad, who sadly had to be ruled out of the Arkle Trophy picture after suffering an injury. Mullins is already familiar with the family as he trains the Gigginstown House Stud-owned half-brother Balko Des Flos, who looks a smart hurdler having won three from four starts in his career to date. Mullins said: "It's great to have Highclere joining our yard as owners. We waited a long time for the right kind of prospect to come up, and I think our patience has been rewarded. "He's a good, strong type and the half-brother has looked progressive over hurdles. He'll probably have a break and we'll keep his novice status intact for next season." Highclere chairman Harry Herbert added: "We are thrilled to be teaming up with Willie Mullins for our first venture into Irish jumps racing, with the huge boost of having Ruby (Walsh) involved as well. "Caro Des Flos looks an exciting horse for the future, the perfect opportunity for those who want an outstanding novice prospect for next season."
