Big loss to Irish racing as Maureen Mullins dies aged 94

Jockey Patrick Mullins kisses his grandmother Maureen Mullins after riding Sharjah to victory in the Unibet Morgiana Hurdle a couple of years ago

placeholder image — Jockey Patrick Mullins kisses his grandmother Maureen Mullins after riding Sharjah to victory in the Unibet Morgiana Hurdle a couple of years ago

Maureen Mullins (Mother of champion trainer Willie) has passed away following a short illness.

Mullins who is mother to not only Willie but also Tony (A former champion jockey), Tom, George and Sandra died peacfully at her home in Goresbridge.

Maureen was married to Paddy who died over a decade ago and like Willie was a multiple time champion trainer and together they oversaw a dynasty of Irish racing that continues to this day with grandsons Patrick, David, Danny and Emmet excelling as jockey and trainers.

All four have ridden winners at the track with Danny and Patrick claiming multiple Grade 1's while David as a jockey and Emmet as a trainer have secured Aintree Grand National success.

Maureen's son Tony confirmed the news of her death at the age of 94 this morning.

"She died peacefully at home and I suppose that's all we can all hope for. And she had a full life - she missed nothing. It is always a shock but it is nice that she didn't suffer for long."

Funeral details will follow in due course.