Alan King’s seasoned campaigner Edwardstone captured his fourth Grade One victory in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, a win that felt like a reversal of time for the veteran horse. The race itself was marked by a series of dramatic moments, most notably Dan Skelton’s historic achievement as champion trainer for the first time and his breakthrough of the £5 million prize‑money milestone. Yet the day was also tinged with tragedy when Skelton’s rising star Thistle Ask suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile contest. The incident unfolded when Thistle Ask, who had been the season’s standout, collided with stablemate Mirabad, causing jockey Tristan Durrell to be unseated as he attempted to avoid the fallen horse.
The mishap left the race open for Joseph O'Brien’s Solness, who struggled on a less‑than‑ideal day, and JPR One, which briefly led before being overtaken in the final furlong. It was at this critical juncture that Edwardstone, starting at 11‑1, and his rider Tom Cannon seized the opportunity, accelerating up the steep hill that had previously seen Cannon win the Tingle Creek in December 2022.
After crossing the finish line, a visibly moved King described the victory as “one of my most emotional wins, it was very special.” He explained that a recent run at Plumpton had sharpened Edwardstone, noting, “He had never been so quick in his life. Tom asked if I wanted to rev him up at the start and I said there was no need – the work was done at Plumpton and he’s a different horse now.” King recalled a tactical conversation with Cannon, saying, “I told Tom if you’re a couple of lengths off him at the Pond Fence we’ll have a hell of a chance.” The pair’s plan paid off, and King praised the crowd’s enthusiasm, adding, “It’s a wonderful day and it was tremendous walking back in with him, the crowd were superb.
He’s a special horse.” King reflected on the broader significance of the win, acknowledging the difficulties of the season and the absence of rival Jonbon. “We’re not discussing retirement today 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.” Tom Cannon echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the familiarity of the course and the preparation that led to success. “The race worked out perfectly and I’ve ridden him round here so many times; it always follows a similar pattern. We got to the Pond Fence, I gave him a squeeze and he finished up nicely. The Plumpton run really stood him in good stead and we saw the benefit today.” He praised Edwardstone’s consistency and the support of the connections, stating, “He’s been a great servant and given me some fantastic days – this could top them all.
It’s a proper story, lots of people follow him and he got a great cheer coming in. To do it on the last day of the season is remarkable, and Alan King deserves a lot of credit.” The incident involving Thistle Ask prompted a statement from Sandown’s veterinary team: “Thistle Ask sustained an injury in the bet365 Celebration Chase.
He was assessed on course by Sandown’s specialist veterinary team and it was decided that the best course of action for the horse’s welfare was for him to be humanely euthanised. Our heartfelt condolences are with those who looked after him at home every day and all of his connections.” The somber note underscored the inherent risks of National Hunt racing and the deep bonds between owners, trainers, and their equine athletes. Elsewhere on the card, Havaila continued his rapid ascent under a patient ride from Caoilin Quinn, clinching 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 a genuine Grand National prospect. After winning the Sussex National in his last outing, Havaila carried a 10‑pound penalty but remained a 5‑1 contender, staying prominent for much of the race. He faced a late challenge at the Pond Fence from Our Power and Road To Home, but despite an awkward stride at the finish, Havaila rallied to edge Our Power by a short head, with Road To Home a neck behind in third.
Gary Moore praised both horse and rider, saying, “Fair play to Caoilin – he gave him a great ride and got him switched off well enough. Caoilin has really stepped up this year and is a good lad who deserves it. I thought he had enough to do and a lot of ground to make up but he did it. He’s travelled and travelled and only just got there, but at least he won’t go up 10 lb this time.
Let’s hope he is all right tomorrow morning, running on that ground over that distance, let’s hope he’s OK.” Moore added, “We might have to go down the Grand National route after that, but let’s get today over with and worry about next season in the autumn. He’s going in the right direction and he’s just started coming to himself. It’s great to get this race on the CV and we’re really lucky to have this horse.” Overall, the Celebration Chase weekend delivered a mix of triumph, heartbreak, and promising future prospects. Edwardstone’s victory highlighted the value of patient conditioning and the deep connection between horse and rider, while the loss of Thistle Ask reminded the sport of its fragile nature.
Havaila’s Gold Cup win added another layer of excitement, positioning him as a potential star for upcoming marquee events such as the Grand National. The day’s narrative, rich with emotion and strategic nuance, will be remembered by fans and participants alike as a testament to the enduring allure of National Hunt racing.