Alan King’s seasoned gelding Edwardstone captured the fourth Grade One victory of his lengthy career in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, delivering a performance that seemed to turn back the clock for the veteran horse. The race itself was marked by several notable storylines, most prominently the triumph of Dan Skelton, who secured his first trainer's championship and became the inaugural trainer to break the £5 million prize‑money barrier. Unfortunately, the day was also tinged with tragedy when Skelton’s promising star, Thistle Ask, suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile contest. The incident unfolded when Thistle Ask, who had been one of the season's standout performers, fell at the Pond Fence.
His stablemate Mirabad, ridden by Tristan Durrell, was forced to pull up in an attempt to avoid the fallen horse. The mishap removed a key contender from the race, and with Joseph O'Brien’s Solness not in optimal condition, the dynamics shifted dramatically. JPR One found itself leading for a spell, but the finish remained open as the field approached the final stages.
Edwardstone, starting at 11‑1, was guided expertly by Tom Cannon, who kept the gelding well‑placed and ready to pounce. As the horses entered the uphill stretch that leads to the famous Tingle Creek finish, Edwardstone surged forward, drawing on the fitness he displayed at Plumpton earlier in the season.
The horse’s acceleration was decisive, and he crossed the line ahead of his rivals, securing a win that King described as "one of my most emotional victories". King reflected on the horse’s preparation, noting that a sharp run at Plumpton had sharpened Edwardstone’s speed and confidence. "He’d never been that quick before," King said. "Tom asked if we should rev him up at the start, but I told him there was no need – Plumpton had done the job.
Since then he’s been a different animal. If we were a few lengths behind at the Pond Fence, we would have had a real chance. The crowd was fantastic, and walking back with Edwardstone was a moment I’ll never forget.
He’s a special horse." The trainer also paid tribute to the broader context of the day, acknowledging the loss of Thistle Ask and the absence of Jonbon, another top contender. "We’re not talking about retirement today," King added, "and I might finish before him. He’s tackled our home hill thousands of times and still attacks it every morning.
That’s why I want to keep going with him – he’ll tell me when he’s had enough." Cannon echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the familiarity he has with the course. "The race unfolded exactly as we hoped," he said. "I’ve ridden Edwardstone here so many times; the pattern is always similar. The Plumpton run really set him up, and today we saw the payoff.
He’s been a great servant, giving me many wonderful days, and this could be the pinnacle of them all. The crowd’s cheer was massive, and finishing the season on such a high note is remarkable. Alan King deserves huge credit for keeping this horse at the top of his game." The tragedy involving Thistle Ask was confirmed by a statement from Sandown’s veterinary team, which explained that the horse sustained a serious injury and was humanely euthanised after careful assessment. The statement expressed heartfelt condolences to the horse’s connections and those who cared for him daily.
Elsewhere on the card, Havaila continued his rapid rise under the patient guidance of jockey Caoilin Quinn, clinching the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. Although the field was not as deep as in previous years, the seven‑year‑old, trained by Gary and Josh Moore, proved his mettle as a genuine Grand National prospect.
After winning the Sussex National in his previous outing, Havaila carried a ten‑pound penalty but still managed to stay in contention throughout the race. In the closing stages, Havaila was challenged by Our Power and Road To Home at the Pond Fence. Despite a slightly awkward stride approaching the final, Havaila summoned a powerful finish to edge out Our Power by a short head, with Road To Home a neck behind in third place.
Gary Moore praised both the horse and the jockey, saying, "Caoilin gave a superb ride and got him switched off nicely. He’s stepped up this year and deserves the credit.
The horse had a lot of ground to make up but delivered when it mattered. He’s travelled a lot and finally got there, and at least he won’t be carrying the extra ten pounds next time." Moore also hinted at future plans, suggesting that Havaila could be aimed at the Grand National after a careful assessment of his health and form.
"We’ll see how he feels tomorrow morning on that ground over that distance. If all goes well, the Grand National route could be next, but for now we’ll enjoy today’s victory and look ahead to the next season in the autumn," he added.
Overall, the Celebration Chase delivered a blend of triumph, heartbreak, and promising future prospects. Edwardstone’s victory highlighted the enduring quality of a seasoned campaigner, while the loss of Thistle Ask reminded the racing community of the sport’s inherent risks.
Meanwhile, emerging talents like Havaila provided a glimpse of the next generation of stayers ready to tackle the biggest challenges in National Hunt racing. The day’s events underscored the emotional highs and lows that define the sport, leaving fans eager for the upcoming season.