Jonbon cemented his status as one of the sport’s most reliable performers by claiming a third consecutive Shloer Chase at Cheltenham, extending his remarkable record of never finishing outside the first two places in 29 races. The 10-year-old gelding, owned by JP McManus and trained by Nicky Henderson, delivered a gritty performance to secure his 21st career victory, proving that his competitive edge remains sharp despite approaching veteran status. Although the late withdrawal of Gidleigh Park simplified the tactical landscape, Jonbon was forced to work hard after the final fence as Mighty Bandit mounted a serious challenge.
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Harry Cobden made a seamless transition to the top level, guiding the 1-2 favourite to a two-and-a-quarter-length win in his first public ride on the horse. The jockey maintained composure as Mighty Bandit kept the race honest, but Jonbon found extra gear in the final furlong to pull away decisively. This victory not only marks a personal milestone for Cobden but also reinforces Henderson’s dominance in the staying chases, with Jonbon continuing to defy age-related decline to remain a consistent contender in the sport’s highest echelons.
The day’s proceedings also featured a standout performance in the Mucking Brilliant Paddy Power Novices Chase, where Daniel King timed his run to perfection aboard D Art D Art. The 7-2 shot, trained by Tom Cooper, crossed the line to give King a significant early-career highlight, following his impressive double at the Galway Festival in the summer. This dual success underlines the depth of talent in the current generation of jockeys and trainers, with both Cobden and King delivering high-pressure performances that highlight the competitive intensity of the Cheltenham Festival.
Source: Sky Sports
