Willie Mullins eyes Classic No 2 with Lope De Lilas in Oaks

Lope De Lilas will look to break new ground for Willie Mullins in the Juddmonte Irish Oaks on Saturday.

Having carried all before him over jumps on both sides of the Irish Sea, the Closutton handler is out to secure only his second Classic victory at the Curragh after Wicklow Brave's triumph in the Irish St Leger eight years ago under Frankie Dettori.

What would make victory all the more special for Mullins this weekend is the fact that his late father Paddy saddled the Dettori-ridden Vintage Tipple to win the Irish Oaks 21 years ago.

Mullins' son and assistant, Patrick, said: "It would mean a huge amount to Willie if he could emulate his father in winning an Irish Oaks and it would be up there with the top of his achievements.

"I vividly remember Vintage Tipple winning, I was actually at a hunter trial in Stradbally and I was listening to it on the radio with my cousin, Emmet.

"James Doyle came over to ride her (Lope De Lilas) work at the Curragh on Tuesday and she worked very well and everyone was very happy.

"It's a big ask but we are very happy going there, so fingers and toes crossed."

After dominating rivals when breaking her duck at Leopardstown in May sporting the colours of the trainer's wife Jackie, Lope De Lilas was snapped up by the Qatari-based Wathnan Racing team.

Mullins junior admits the daughter of Lope De Vega faces a huge rise in class on Saturday, but feels it is worth rolling the dice.

He added: "It is obviously a big ask coming straight out of maiden company into a Group One Classic, but that is the route we have decided to take.

"She's had a fantastic preparation at home. Port Fairy is a Royal Ascot winner and she sets the standard but it is hugely exciting to be involved in a Classic."

Victory for Lope De