Racing

Don Poli leads Willie Mullins’ seven entries in Irish Gold Cup

Djakadam expected to head to Cheltenham for prep-run later this month

Don Poli is one of seven entries in the Irish Gold Cup for Willie Mullins. Photograph: Getty
Don Poli is one of seven entries in the Irish Gold Cup for Willie Mullins. Photograph: Getty
Thu Jan 14 2016 - 14:22

Willie Mullins is responsible for seven of the 17 entries for the Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown on February 6th.

Lexus winner Don Poli appears to be his main contender as Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up Djakadam, who has also been given the option, is due to head to Cheltenham for his prep run later this month.

Sir Des Champs, winner of this event in 2013, is also among Mullins' strong team.

Gordon Elliott has entered Don Cossack, but he would be an unlikely starter, as well as Roi Du Mee.

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The two Elliott inmates race in the maroon silks of Gigginstown, who could also be represented by the Noel Meade-trained duo of Road To Riches and Wounded Warrior.

Carlingford Lough provided Sir Tony McCoy with a popular success last season and he could bid for back-to-back wins for John Kiely, with Gilgamboa another possible for JP McManus.

Paul Nicholls has enjoyed success in the race in the past with Neptune Collonges in 2009 and has entered Virak this year.

Ted Walsh’s Foxrock, runner-up last year, and the Mouse Morris-trained First Lieutenant are other notable entries.