Alan King’s seasoned campaigner Edwardstone captured his fourth Grade One victory in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, proving that experience can still conquer the toughest challenges. The win came on a day that also saw Dan Skelton become champion trainer for the first time, breaking the £5 million prize‑money barrier, and was marked by the tragic loss of Thistle Ask, who suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile contest.
The race unfolded dramatically. Thistle Ask, Skelton’s standout of the season, was involved in a collision that saw his stablemate Mirabad lose jockey Tristan Durrell while attempting to avoid the fallen star.
The incident left a gap at the front, and Joseph O’Brien’s Solness, who was not at his best that day, faded, allowing JPR One to take the lead. JPR One held a narrow advantage to the final fence, but Edwardstone, starting at 11‑1, surged forward under Tom Cannon’s guidance, staying on strongly up the hill that had previously seen him claim the Tingle Creek in December 2022. After the race, a visibly moved King said, “This is one of my most emotional wins – it feels incredibly special.
He’s been in superb form; Plumpton sharpened him last time and he’s never been faster. When Tom asked if we should rev him up at the start, I said there’s no need – the work was done at Plumpton and he’s a different horse now.” King continued, “I told Tom that if we were a couple of lengths off him at the Pond Fence, we’d have a real chance. The atmosphere was wonderful, the crowd fantastic, and Edwardstone proved he’s a truly special horse.” He reflected on the broader context, noting, “We’ve had a lot of down days, but this win ranks among the best.
It’s been a while since we secured a Grade One, so this is huge. Perhaps his Grade One days were behind him, but with Jonbon not running today and the tragedy earlier – my thoughts are with his team – the race opened up for us.” King added, “We’re not talking retirement now; I might finish before him. He’s tackled our home hill countless times and still attacks it each morning. That’s why I want to keep going with him – he’ll tell me when it’s time.” Cannon echoed the sentiment, saying, “The race unfolded exactly as we hoped.
I’ve ridden him here many times and the pattern is familiar. At the Pond Fence I gave him a squeeze and he finished strongly. Plumpton really put him in good shape and we saw the benefit today.” He praised the horse’s consistency, “He’s been a great servant, giving me many memorable days, and this could be the pinnacle. The crowd gave him a massive cheer, and achieving this on the season’s final day is remarkable.
Alan King deserves a lot of credit for what we’ve achieved together.” The incident with Thistle Ask prompted a statement from Sandown: "Thistle Ask sustained an injury in the bet365 Celebration Chase. He was examined on‑course by the track’s specialist veterinary team, and it was decided that humane euthanasia was the most compassionate option for his welfare.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his caretakers and all his connections." The tragic loss cast a somber shadow over the meeting, but the day also produced other notable performances. Havaila, another Sandown highlight, continued his rapid ascent under the patient riding of Caoilin Quinn, securing victory in the bet365 Gold Cup. 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 entered the race as a 5‑1 favorite and dominated much of the contest.
Approaching the final fence, Havaila appeared to be easing, yet he maintained enough momentum to out‑finish Our Power by a short head, with Road To Home a neck behind in third. Gary Moore praised both horse and rider, stating, “Caoilin gave him a superb ride and got him switched off well. He’s stepped up this year and truly deserves the credit.
I thought he’d have a lot of ground to make up, but he delivered. He’s travelled a long way and finally got there, and at least he won’t have to carry the extra ten pounds next time. Let’s hope he’s fit tomorrow for the long distance on that ground.” Moore added, “We might look at the Grand National route after this, but let’s finish today and plan for next autumn.
He’s heading in the right direction and finally coming into his own. Adding this win to his record is fantastic, and we’re incredibly lucky to have him.” Overall, the Celebration Chase at Sandown showcased the bittersweet nature of horse racing – the joy of Edwardstone’s stunning resurgence and the sorrow of Thistle Ask’s untimely demise. It also highlighted emerging talent in Havaila, suggesting a promising future for the sport’s next generation.
The day’s events will be remembered for both the emotional triumphs and the heartfelt tributes to those lost, underscoring the deep connections between trainers, jockeys, horses, and fans that define the racing world.