David Casey has been an essential part of Willie Mullins’ training operation since retiring from his successful riding career 11 years ago. Starting as a jockey for Mullins at just 17, Casey’s accolades include victories in prestigious races such as the Irish Hennessy, Galway Plate, and the Thyestes Chase. Notably, he won the 2002 Grand Annual Chase at Cheltenham aboard Fadoudal Du Cochet and the Royal and SunAlliance Chase on Rule Supreme in 2004.
Casey ended his riding career on a high note in 2015, guiding Long Dog to a novice hurdle victory at Listowel’s Kerry National meeting. Shortly afterward, he traveled to Australia as part of the team behind Max Dynamite for the Melbourne Cup.
Now aged 50, Casey remains a vital component of Mullins' operation and has high hopes for two of the stable’s runners at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival: Fact To File in the Ryanair Chase and Majborough in the Champion Chase.
Discussing Majborough with BOYLE Sports, Casey praised the horse’s recent performance: “What he did at Leopardstown was exceptional. If he can deliver that again, he’ll be very hard to beat.” He explained how changes in tactics and equipment have enhanced Majborough’s focus and jumping, saying, “We put cheek pieces back on to keep him concentrating and prevent idling. When he’s in front and focused, he jumps much better and maintains a high cruising speed.”
Regarding Fact To File, the Irish Gold Cup winner and reigning Ryanair Chase champion, Casey noted the possibility of a late entry in the Gold Cup but suggested the horse would likely defend its Ryanair title. “JP, the team, and Willie will decide the best route, but if Fact To File runs in the Ryanair, he’ll be tough to beat,” Casey said confidently.
With insider insight from one of Willie Mullins’ most trusted team members, these two horses are among the top ‘bankers’ to watch at next week’s Cheltenham Festival.