Alan King’s seasoned veteran Edwardstone captured his fourth Grade One victory in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, delivering a performance that seemed to defy the horse’s age and experience. The win was especially poignant given the day’s other headlines: Dan Skelton secured his first Champion Trainer title and broke the £5 million prize‑money barrier for the first time, while tragedy struck when Thistle Ask, the season’s breakout star, suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile contest.
The race unfolded with drama from the start. Stablemate Mirabad was forced to lose jockey Tristan Durrell as he tried to avoid the falling Thistle Ask, creating a chaotic opening.
Joseph O’Brien’s Solness, who had been a strong contender, never found his rhythm on the day, leaving JPR One to take an early lead. However, JPR One was soon pressured by a hard‑charging Edwardstone, who, at odds of 11‑1, stayed within striking distance.
Tom Cannon, the Irish jockey who has partnered Edwardstone on many occasions, timed his move perfectly, guiding the horse up the hill that had previously seen the Tingle Creek winner in December 2022. After the finish line, a visibly moved Alan King described the victory as “one of the most emotional wins of my career.” He explained that a recent run at Plumpton had sharpened Edwardstone, giving the gelding a new burst of speed.
“Tom asked if I wanted to rev him up at the start, but I told him there was no need – Plumpton had done the work. He’s a different horse now,” King said. He added that a tactical positioning at the Pond Fence – a crucial point on the Sandown course – gave them a “hell of a chance” to pull ahead. The atmosphere, according to King, was electric, with a supportive crowd that made the win feel even more special.
King reflected on the broader context of the win, noting that his stable had not secured a Grade One for some time. “Perhaps his Grade One days were behind him, but with Jonbon out and the tragedy earlier, the race opened up for us,” he said, expressing sympathy for Thistle Ask’s connections. He also hinted that retirement is not on the immediate agenda for Edwardstone, emphasizing the horse’s relentless enthusiasm for the hill at his home track, a hill he attacks every morning. Tom Cannon echoed King’s sentiments, praising the race’s execution and the preparation at Plumpton.
“The race worked out perfectly. I’ve ridden him here many times, and the pattern is always similar. At the Pond Fence I gave him a squeeze, and he responded beautifully,” Cannon explained.
He highlighted the importance of the Plumpton run, saying it “stood him in good stead today.” Cannon also lauded Edwardstone’s character, calling him a “great servant” who has given him many memorable days, and suggested that this victory could be the pinnacle of their partnership. The day also featured a heartbreaking moment when Thistle Ask was injured. A statement from Sandown’s veterinary team confirmed that the horse was assessed on‑course and, after careful consideration, was humanely euthanised to protect his welfare.
The statement expressed deep condolences to the owners, trainers, and everyone who cared for the horse. In another highlight of the meeting, Havaila, a seven‑year‑old trained by Gary and Josh Moore, continued his rapid rise by winning the bet365 Gold Cup. Ridden patiently by Caoilin Quinn, Havaila displayed a blend of stamina and determination that marked him as a genuine Grand National prospect. Despite carrying a 10‑pound penalty after his Sussex National win, the 5‑1 shot stayed prominent throughout the race, only being challenged in the final stages by Our Power and Road To Home.
Havaila’s finishing kick was impressive: after a slightly awkward stride at the last fence, he rallied powerfully to edge out Our Power by a short head, with Road To Home a neck behind in third. Gary Moore praised both horse and jockey after the race. “Caoilin gave him a great ride and switched him off well.
He’s stepped up this year and deserves the credit,” Moore said. He noted that Havaila had to make up significant ground but managed to do so, and expressed optimism about the horse’s future, hinting at a possible Grand National campaign. “He’s going in the right direction, just starting to come into his own.
It’s great to add this win to his CV, and we’re lucky to have him,” Moore concluded. Overall, the Celebration Chase at Sandown provided a mixture of triumph, tragedy, and promise. Edwardstone’s victory demonstrated that experience and careful preparation can still triumph over youth, while the loss of Thistle Ask reminded the racing community of the sport’s inherent risks.
Meanwhile, Havaila’s ascent adds a fresh storyline for the upcoming National season, giving fans plenty to anticipate as the autumn campaign unfolds. For those who want to stay up to date with the latest racing news, interviews, and in‑depth features, the Sky Sports Racing app offers real‑time updates and comprehensive coverage directly to your mobile device. Whether you’re following veteran champions like Edwardstone or tracking emerging talents such as Havaila, the platform ensures you never miss a beat of the sport you love.