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    Jonbon Shows Promising Form Leading Up to El Fabiolo Festival Showdown
Jonbon Shows Promising Form Leading Up to El Fabiolo Festival Showdown
Image courtesy of The Mirror

Jonbon Shows Promising Form Leading Up to El Fabiolo Festival Showdown

Henderson's star performer bounces back stronger. 


Renowned trainer Nicky Henderson remains unfazed as Jonbon gears up for a highly anticipated showdown with El Fabiolo in the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase following a recent setback.

Despite boasting an impressive record of 12 victories in 15 races, Henderson remains undeterred by Jonbon's three defeats at the prestigious Cheltenham course. Notably, Jonbon succumbed to fellow stablemate Constitution Hill in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and was outpaced by El Fabiolo in the Arkle last season. More recently, an uncharacteristically error-strewn display led to Jonbon's defeat in the rearranged Clarence House Chase, despite being the heavy favourite.

Nevertheless, Henderson draws confidence from Jonbon's earlier triumph at Cheltenham this season. “He’s schooled this morning, AP (McCoy) was here to see him. He’s in good form, very good,” reassured Henderson. The seasoned trainer remains unperturbed by the recent setback, attributing it to a single error. Henderson's optimism is further bolstered by Jonbon's victory in the Shloer, proving his competence on the Cheltenham track.

Looking ahead to the upcoming challenge, Henderson anticipates a well-suited pace in the Queen Mother, with Alan King's Edwardstone expected to set a brisk tempo. “They’ll go galloping and I think that suits him," Henderson remarked. While acknowledging Edwardstone's potential as a front-runner, Henderson remains confident in Jonbon's adaptability. Henderson also praises Jonbon's resilience in overcoming obstacles, highlighting his remarkable recovery in previous races.

Despite discussions around a potential step up in distance, Henderson remains focused on Jonbon's immediate targets. “I would have no problem going over two and a half,” Henderson stated, hinting at future possibilities. Reflecting on past decisions and Jonbon's versatility, Henderson remains open to exploring new challenges and distances, guided by Jonbon's performances in the upcoming races.

The highly anticipated clash with El Fabiolo, originally slated for the Clarence House at Ascot, promises an exhilarating encounter. Henderson expresses disappointment over the race's relocation to Cheltenham, a move that altered preparations. Despite the change in plans, Henderson remains upbeat about Jonbon's prospects, emphasising his horse's unique temperament and competitive spirit.

As the countdown to the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase intensifies, Henderson's unwavering belief in Jonbon's abilities sets the stage for an enthralling battle, showcasing the resilience and determination of this remarkable duo.

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