Alan King’s seasoned campaigner Edwardstone secured a spectacular victory in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, marking the fourth Grade One win of the horse’s long and distinguished career. The win was especially poignant as it came on a day that also saw Dan Skelton become champion trainer for the first time, breaking the £5 million prize‑money barrier, and as the sport mourned the tragic loss of Thistle Ask, a standout performer who suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile contest. The race unfolded with drama from the start. Stablemate Mirabad, ridden by Tristan Durrell, was forced to pull up after an attempt to avoid the falling Thistle Ask, whose collapse sent shockwaves through the field.
Meanwhile, Joseph O'Brien’s Solness struggled to find footing on the day’s going, allowing JPR One to take an early lead. As the field approached the final stages, JPR One held a narrow advantage, but Edwardstone, sent off at 11‑1, began to make his move. Tom Cannon, the jockey, guided the veteran horse up the hill with a strong, sustained drive that echoed the performance that earned Edwardstone the Tingle Creek at Sandown in December 2022.
After the race, a visibly emotional Alan King described the win as “one of my most emotional victories, it was very special.” He praised the preparation at Plumpton, noting that the horse had never been so quick in his life. “Tom asked if I wanted to rev him up at the start and I said there’s no need – the work was done at Plumpton and he’s a different horse now,” King explained. He added that a few lengths at the Pond Fence would give them a “hell of a chance,” and that the atmosphere, with a supportive crowd, made the day unforgettable. King reflected on the broader context, acknowledging that the tragedy involving Thistle Ask and the absence of Jonbon had opened up the race for Edwardstone, but he emphasized that the win was a testament to perseverance on a day that also reminded everyone of the sport’s highs and lows.
Cannon, who has partnered with Edwardstone on numerous occasions, echoed King’s sentiment. He said the race “worked out perfectly” and that the familiar pattern of the course at Sandown suited the horse. He credited the preparation at Plumpton, stating, “the race at Plumpton really stood him in good stead and we saw the benefit today.” Cannon described Edwardstone as a “servant” who has given him many great days, suggesting that this triumph could be the pinnacle of their partnership.
He highlighted the crowd’s enthusiastic reaction and praised King for his skillful training, noting that achieving such a result on the final day of the season was a “remarkable performance.” The incident with Thistle Ask prompted an official statement from Sandown Racecourse. The statement confirmed that the horse sustained a severe injury during the Celebration Chase, was examined by the track’s veterinary team, and was humanely euthanised for welfare reasons. The racecourse expressed heartfelt condolences to the horse’s connections and caretakers, acknowledging the deep sense of loss felt by the racing community.
In another notable performance on the same card, Havaila continued his rapid ascent under a patient ride from Caoilin Quinn, winning the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. Although the overall quality and quantity of the field were lower than in previous years, the seven‑year‑old trained by Gary and Josh Moore proved himself a genuine Grand National prospect.
After winning the Sussex National in his previous outing, Havaila carried a 10‑pound penalty but remained a strong contender at 5‑1 odds. Throughout the race, Havaila stayed close to the leaders, with Our Power and Road To Home pressing for position. Despite a momentary stumble at the final fence, Havaila rallied powerfully, edging out Our Power by a short head, while Road To Home finished a neck behind in third. Gary Moore praised both horse and rider after the win.
He lauded Caoilin Quinn for delivering a “great ride” and noted that the jockey had “stepped up this year.” Moore expressed optimism about Havaila’s future, hoping the horse would remain sound for a potential Grand National run and for the next season’s campaigns. He emphasized that the victory added a valuable entry to the horse’s résumé and highlighted the team’s gratitude for having such a talented animal in their stable. Overall, the day at Sandown was a microcosm of the sport’s emotional spectrum: triumph, tragedy, and the promise of future glory.
Edwardstone’s win demonstrated that experience and careful preparation can still overcome youthful vigor, while the loss of Thistle Ask reminded everyone of the inherent risks of racing. Meanwhile, Havaila’s emergence as a Grand National contender added an exciting narrative for the upcoming spring festivals.
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