Behind the Scenes at Willie Mullins’ Yard – A Visit with Pompey Ventures Syndicate
Last Updated on August 15, 2026
There are stable visits, then there is a morning at Willie Mullins’ yard in Closutton.
For Pompey Ventures, this was not simply a visit for photographs or polite handshakes. It was an opportunity to look inside the most successful training operation in National Hunt racing, a chance to see exactly where their new horse Kingmaker sits within that structure.
Guided by Patrick Mullins, the group met the team, spent time with Kingmaker, and watched him go about his work. They were able to look him over, ask questions, and see for themselves how he is progressing within a yard that sets the standard season after season.
This is what ownership should feel like. Not brochure talk. Not promises. Just the real thing, up close, where it matters.
Pompey Ventures, Kingmaker & Closutton
Pompey Ventures has built solid momentum on the Flat. As interest from owners grew, so did the calls for a jumps horse. That search brought them to Kingmaker.
Bought for 55,000 guineas at the Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale from Andrew Balding’s yard, he stood out straight away. A strong, scopey dual-purpose type with the option to switch codes. He ran 11 times on the Flat, finishing second four times and rarely beaten by much.
Those efforts suggested there was more to come, particularly once sent over hurdles. If you are going to develop that kind of horse in Ireland, you send him to the yard with the clearest pathway for novice hurdlers and a proven record with former Flat performers.
For Pompey Ventures, there was only one destination. Willie Mullins at Closutton.
Their first visit to Ireland removed any doubt. They had made the right choice.
Kingmaker is thriving.
Those who had seen him before spoke of a stronger, more settled horse. He looks like he has grown into himself. The yard’s feedback matched what they could see with their own eyes. He is being trained in a place where excellence is routine.
Close by were Galopin Des Champs, Fact To File, and Lossiemouth – horses that win championship races and define the standard.
Willie Mullins Maps Out a Campaign With Intent
Plans for the months ahead are beginning to take shape.
The likely starting point is a maiden or novice hurdle in May, allowing Kingmaker to progress steadily. From there, targets under discussion include the Galway Festival and a return to Cheltenham Racecourse in October.
There has also been a serious conversation about mixing codes. A potential entry in the Cesarewitch Handicap has been raised as a genuine possibility.
That is not idle thinking. Mullins has repeatedly targeted the Cesarewitch with former jumpers, winning it with horses such as Vauban and Stratum.
Kingmaker’s versatility could open more than one door.
A Bold Move From Pompey Ventures
Away from the gallops, Pompey Ventures has also taken a bold step.
To coincide with Cheltenham, a competition has been launched aimed squarely at jumps fans who have considered ownership but never quite taken the leap.
The headline prize is a 1% share in Kingmaker!
- You follow the plans.
- You hear how things are going directly from the yard.
- You share the highs, and let’s be honest…the occasional lows when things don’t quite go to plan
- And you’re there to cheer him home on race day!
Why not head over to the competition entry page and take your chance? You never know, you might just have the luck of the Irish. 🍀 (Free to enter · UK & Ireland residents only · Entries close Saturday 14th March 9pm)
Kingmaker is progressing at one of the sport’s most powerful yards. The campaign ahead carries ambition. And for those watching closely, there is still time to be involved before the next big target comes into view.
The Kingmaker Campaign: Your Invitation to the 2026 Season
If you enter the competition and aren’t lucky enough to win a share, don’t worry. You can still be part of Kingmaker’s story. Shares are still available – click here.
Kingmaker is settled at Closutton, thriving physically, and working towards a clearly defined campaign mapped out by Willie Mullins.
NEW JUMPS SYNDICATE HORSE
Pompey Ventures is offering shares in an exciting new horse, Kingmaker, who will be trained by champion trainer Willie Mullins as part of the new PV Jumps Syndicate.
Syndicate ownership is often most rewarding before the spotlight intensifies. Buying in now means being part of the build-up to Galway, Cheltenham, and potentially even a bold Flat target later in the year.
It means yard access, regular updates, and the chance to stand in the parade ring knowing you were involved at the start.
