CHELTENHAM NEWS

Mullins carefully pondering pro move

Patrick Mullins says he will not rush into a decision to turn professional, despite his current status as an amateur ruling him out of Cheltenham.

The British Horseracing Authority’s ban on amateur riders competing until March 29 at the earliest in compliance with UK government restrictions on grassroots sport has left the rider, like several others, in a difficult quandary.

Mullins currently divides his time between riding and working as an assistant trainer for his father Willie and had been lined up to pilot Champion Hurdle hope Sharjah and favourite Kilcruit in the Champion Bumper.

Turning professional before the Festival in a fortnight’s time would allow him to do so but he insists he will bide his time before making any decision, especially as it remains unclear as to whether he’d be able to return to the amateur ranks should he wish.

“I think I will have to make a decision before the end of next week,” he said. “I’m mulling it over. I will try and leave it as late as I can.”