BetMGM Clarence House Chase |
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| Grade 1, Ascot 15:32 £175,000 guaranteed, 5yo plus, 2m 62y, Class 1  |
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1 Jonbon 8/13F
2
Energumene 9/4
3
Edwardstone 12/1
4 ran Distances: 6½l, 4l, 35l
Time: 4m 6.59s (slow by 6.59s)
JONBON is the @BetMGM Clarence House Chase champion at @Ascot! 👑 pic.twitter.com/zpEPJiHjUk
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) January 18, 2025
In a commanding performance, Jonbon secured a decisive victory, defeating dual Champion Chase winner Energumene.
Ridden by Nico de Boinville, Jonbon took an assertive lead from the start, setting a strong pace. Despite a slight error at the third-last fence, he quickly regained momentum. Energumene, under jockey Paul Townend, attempted to challenge but was unable to match Jonbon's acceleration. Jonbon extended his lead after the final fence, finishing six and a half lengths ahead of Energumene.
This victory marks Jonbon's 17th win from 20 starts under rules, solidifying his status as the leading contender for the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. Trainer Nicky Henderson expressed his admiration, stating, "He's a horse of a lifetime... I certainly think he is a worthy favourite for the Champion Chase."
Jockey Nico de Boinville praised Jonbon's performance, noting, "The horse is just in great order at the moment and he is in a real sweet spot... He is just a fantastic horse."
Following this impressive win, bookmakers have adjusted Jonbon's odds, making him the 11/8 favourite for the upcoming Champion Chase at Cheltenham.
BetMGM Clarence House Chase
£175,000 guaranteed, 5yo plus, 2m 62y, Class 1
4 ran
Going: Good, Good to Soft in places
POS. DIST HORSE AGE WGT TRAINER JOCKEY SP
1 Jonbon 9 11-10 Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville 8/13F
2 6½ Energumene 11 11-10 W P Mullins Paul Townend 9/4
3 4 Edwardstone 11 11-10 Alan King Tom Cannon 12/1
4 35 Boothill 10 11-10 Harry Fry Bryan Carver 16/1
