Trainer Nicky Henderson believes the decision to reschedule the Shloer Chase to the opening day of Cheltenham's November meeting could work in favor of his standout contender, Jonbon. Traditionally held on the final day of the three-day fixture, the Grade 2, two-mile event will now take place on Friday, aiming to capitalise on a prime slot and potentially better track conditions.
Henderson expressed that racing earlier in the week could offer Jonbon a tactical advantage, allowing the eight-year-old to perform on fresher ground. Course clerk Jon Pullin and his team have been diligently watering the track to ensure the ground remains in optimal condition despite the persistent dry weather.
“This unpredictable weather is challenging, but we’re hoping Jonbon will get his chance to run,” Henderson remarked. He noted that Jonbon’s recent gallop at Newbury and schooling on Thursday had shown promising results, leaving him confident in the horse’s form. Henderson trusts Pullin’s work on the course and anticipates that Friday’s ground will be ideal before it dries out over the weekend.
Jonbon, who claimed four out of five wins last season, including the Shloer Chase, faced his only defeat to Elixir De Nutz in the Clarence House Chase. Despite missing the Queen Mother Champion Chase at last March’s Cheltenham Festival due to concerns over Henderson's stable, Jonbon remains the 3-1 favourite for next year’s BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase.
Henderson is optimistic about Jonbon’s chances in this season’s Champion Chase, pointing out that the horse’s impressive record speaks for itself. Alongside Jonbon, he noted that Constitution Hill is also in top form and ready for a successful campaign, hoping for a smoother season than last year.
Henderson and owner JP McManus also celebrated success in the Grade 3 Unibet Greatwood Handicap Hurdle last year with Iberico Lord. This season, Under Control will be their sole entry, having recently placed sixth in the Galway Hurdle. Henderson stated that Under Control is in excellent condition and prepared for Sunday’s Greatwood Hurdle, with odds currently topped by Dysart Enos and Burdett Road.
In the upcoming Paddy Power Gold Cup on Saturday, Ginny’s Destiny heads a competitive field of 17, with trainer Paul Nicholls eyeing a repeat victory following last year’s success with Stage Star. While Stage Star hasn’t been confirmed for this year’s race, 2022 winner Ga Law remains in the lineup under Jamie Snowden’s guidance. Paddy Power's Paul Binfield noted that Ginny's Destiny’s recent form has spurred high expectations among punters for Nicholls’ stable this weekend.