Alan King’s seasoned campaigner 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. The win was especially poignant for King, who described it as one of the most emotional moments of his long career.
The day, however, was bittersweet. Dan Skelton celebrated his first champion‑trainer title and broke the £5 million prize‑money barrier for the first time, but his standout horse, Thistle Ask, suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile feature.
While attempting to avoid Thistle Ask, stablemate Mirabad lost jockey Tristan Durrell, and with Joseph O’Brien’s Solness struggling on the day, JPR One briefly led before being overtaken in the final stages. Edwardstone, starting at 11‑1, and his rider Tom Cannon seized the opportunity, staying on strongly up the hill that had previously seen Edwardstone claim the Tingle Creek in December 2022.
King reflected on the victory, saying, “It was incredibly special – one of the most emotional wins I’ve had. He’s been in fantastic form; Plumpton sharpened him up, and he’s never been quicker.
When Tom asked if we should rev him up at the start, I told him there was no need – the work at Plumpton had already done the job, and he’s a different horse now.” He added, “If you’re a few lengths off him at the Pond Fence, you’ve got a real chance. The crowd was superb, and walking back with him was a thrill. He’s a special horse, and moments like this remind us why we stay in the sport despite the down days.” King also touched on the broader context, noting the absence of Jonbon and the tragic loss of Thistle Ask, which opened the race for his contender. “We’re not talking retirement today; I might finish before him.
He’s tackled this hill countless times at home and still attacks it each morning. That’s why I want to keep going with him – he’ll tell me when he’s had enough.” Tom Cannon echoed King’s sentiments, emphasizing the familiarity of the course. “The race unfolded perfectly.
I’ve ridden him here many times, and the pattern is always similar. We hit the Pond Fence, I gave him a squeeze, and he finished strongly. Plumpton really prepared him, and today’s benefit was clear. He’s been a great servant, giving me many memorable days, and this could be the pinnacle.
The crowd’s cheer was fantastic, and achieving this on the season’s final day is remarkable. Alan King deserves massive credit for keeping this horse in top condition.” The incident involving Thistle Ask prompted an official statement from Sandown: “Thistle Ask sustained an injury in the bet365 Celebration Chase. He was examined on‑course by our specialist veterinary team, and for the welfare of the horse, humane euthanasia was deemed the most appropriate action. Our heartfelt condolences go to his caretakers and connections.” The meeting also featured a notable performance from Havaila, who continued his rapid ascent under a patient ride from Caoilin Quinn to win the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown.
Although the field was smaller 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 last outing, Havaila carried a 10‑pound penalty but still started as a 5‑1 favourite, staying prominent throughout the race.
Approaching the final fence, Havaila appeared to have a little extra to give as Our Power and Road To Home challenged. Despite a slightly awkward stride at the last, Havaila summoned a powerful finish 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: “Caoilin gave a great ride and switched him off well. He’s stepped up this year and deserves the credit.
He had a lot of ground to make up, but he travelled and got there. At least he won’t be carrying an extra 10 lb next time. Let’s hope he’s sound tomorrow after running on that ground over the distance.” Moore added, “We might look at the Grand National route after this, but for now we’ll enjoy today’s success and plan for the next season in the autumn.
He’s heading in the right direction, just coming into his own. Adding this win to his CV is fantastic, and we’re incredibly lucky to have him.” Overall, the Celebration Chase delivered a mix of triumph and tragedy, showcasing the resilience of seasoned campaigners like Edwardstone and the rising talent of horses such as Havaila, while reminding the racing community of the ever‑present risks inherent in the sport.