Jonbon displaying excellent form leading up to the Clarence House Chase
Jonbon and El Fabiolo Set to Clash Once Again at Clarence House Chase
The anticipation is palpable among the connections of Jonbon as they prepare for a thrilling showdown with El Fabiolo at the upcoming Clarence House Chase. With just over a week left until the highly-anticipated race, both camps have set their sights on this Ascot Grade One event after securing victories in their respective pre-Christmas assignments.
This clash between these two major players in the two-mile chasing division will mark their third meeting. Back in their novice hurdling days, it was Nicky Henderson’s Jonbon who emerged victorious at Aintree. However, El Fabiolo showcased his true potential during a sensational novice chasing campaign that saw Willie Mullins’ seven-year-old claim Grade One triumphs at Dublin, Cheltenham, and Punchestown Festivals.
With one win each under their belts, many anticipated a rubber match between these formidable rivals in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. However, now it seems that we are set for another epic battle akin to Energumene’s clash with Shishkin earlier this year – much to the excitement of Jonbon’s camp.
“The horse is in great form,” stated Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus. “Nicky is very happy with him and we’re all looking forward to the race,” he added enthusiastically. The stage is set for what promises to be an exhilarating spectacle.
Journey so Far
Jonbon has had an outstanding season thus far. He made his return with an impressive victory in Cheltenham’s Shloer Chase before displaying his ability to conquer challenging conditions by grinding out a hard-fought win in last month’s Tingle Creek.
In both of these victories, the talented Nico de Boinville rode Jonbon. However, with De Boinville currently sidelined due to a collarbone injury and former partner Aidan Coleman still recovering from a knee injury suffered last summer, it is likely that an alternative jockey will take the reins for the Clarence House Chase.
James Bowen has proven himself as a capable substitute during De Boinville’s absence. However, Berry revealed that no final decision regarding the jockey has been made yet. He emphasized that Nicky Henderson will have crucial input in this matter.
“I’m not sure at the moment who will ride,” Berry stated. “We’ll leave that up to Nicky.”
In Conclusion
The clash between Jonbon and El Fabiolo at the Clarence House Chase promises to be nothing short of spectacular. With their previous encounters resulting in one win each, fans are eager to witness who will emerge victorious in this thrilling battle between two exceptional racehorses.
As spectators eagerly await this showdown, it is clear that Jonbon’s connections are filled with confidence and enthusiasm for their star performer. The stage is set for an unforgettable race where skill and determination will collide on Ascot’s hallowed grounds.