Soldier In Milan surged to a commanding victory in the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on Monday, delivering a spectacular performance as the pre-race favorite.
Ridden by jockey Donagh Meyler and trained by Emmet Mullins, the seven-year-old horse demonstrated exceptional jumping ability throughout the challenging three-mile, five-furlong course. Making a decisive move with five fences remaining, Soldier In Milan seized the lead and powered home an impressive 16 lengths ahead of the competition.
"He travelled too well, he jumped so sweet throughout and I landed in front five out," an elated Meyler told RTE Sport after the race. "He's a class horse, class trainer, class owner and I just feel so lucky to be involved with these people."
The victory proved particularly sweet for Meyler, who described a season of ups and downs before this career-defining moment. "I had a lot of ups and downs this season with horses not winning, getting beaten on horses and in stewards rooms but this makes up for it all," he said.
Showurappreciation finished second at 10-1 odds, followed by The Enabler in third at 28-1, with Argento Boy taking fourth place at 16-1. The race featured dramatic moments including Kill Will's fall at the third fence from home, but Soldier In Milan maintained composure throughout the challenging conditions.
This triumph marks redemption for the horse after a disappointing performance at the Grade 3 novice chase in Thurles last month, cementing what Meyler called "our best season" and creating what he described as an "unbelievable" achievement for the entire team.