Alan King’s seasoned campaigner Edwardstone captured the fourth Grade One victory of his extensive career in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, delivering a performance that seemed to turn back the clock for the veteran horse. The day was marked by several notable storylines: Dan Skelton secured his first champion trainer title and broke the £5 million prize‑money barrier for the first time, while his star, Thistle Ask, suffered a tragic, ultimately fatal injury during the two‑mile contest. Thistle Ask’s mishap had immediate repercussions. Stablemate Mirabad, ridden by Tristan Durrell, was forced to pull up while trying to avoid the fallen horse.
Meanwhile, Joseph O’Brien’s Solness was unable to find a rhythm on the day, leaving JPR One to take an early lead. The race tightened dramatically in the final furlong, giving Edwardstone, a 11‑1 outsider, and his jockey Tom Cannon the chance to surge up the hill that had previously witnessed his Tingle Creek triumph in December 2022.
After the win, King described the victory as “one of the most emotional” of his career. He praised the preparation at Plumpton, noting that the horse had never been quicker. "Tom asked if I wanted to rev him up at the start, but there was no need – the work at Plumpton had done the job and he’s a different horse now," King explained.
He added that a few lengths behind at the Pond Fence would give them a strong chance, and he was delighted by the crowd’s enthusiasm, calling Edwardstone a "special horse" and emphasizing that moments like this are why they stay in the sport despite the inevitable down days. King also reflected on the broader context of the race. With Jonbon absent and the tragedy involving Thistle Ask, the field opened up, providing an opportunity for Edwardstone.
He dismissed any talk of retirement, insisting that the horse still attacks the home hill with the same vigor as when he was a youngster, and that he will decide when the time comes to step away. Tom Cannon echoed the sentiment, saying the race unfolded exactly as they had anticipated. "I’ve ridden him around this course countless times, and the pattern is always similar. When we hit the Pond Fence I gave him a squeeze and he finished strongly.
The work at Plumpton really paid off today," Cannon said. He lauded Edwardstone’s consistency and the support of the fans, noting that the cheer from the crowd was a testament to the horse’s popularity. Cannon also praised Alan King’s training, calling it deserving of high credit.
The incident with Thistle Ask prompted an official statement from Sandown: the horse sustained a severe injury and, after assessment by the track’s veterinary team, was humanely euthanised to protect his welfare. The statement expressed heartfelt condolences to the horse’s connections and caretakers. The day also featured a notable performance from Havaila, who continued his rapid ascent under a patient ride from Caoilin Quinn to claim the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. Despite a field that was thinner 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 ten pounds more than his previous rating, yet the 5‑1 shot remained in contention for much of the race. Approaching the final fence, Havaila appeared to have a little extra to give as Our Power and Road To Home challenged. Even though he met the last fence with a slightly awkward stride, Havaila rallied powerfully, overtaking Our Power at the line to win by a short head, with Road To Home a neck behind in third place.
Gary Moore praised both horse and jockey after the victory. "Caoilin gave a superb ride, switched him off well, and has really stepped up this year. He’s a good lad who deserves the credit," Moore said. He noted that the horse had to make up a lot of ground but managed to do so, and expressed relief that Havaila would not have to carry the extra ten pounds in the upcoming Grand National.
Moore hopes the horse recovers well overnight and will be fit for the long distance race in the spring. He hinted that the Grand National could be the next target, but emphasized the need to focus on the immediate future and the upcoming season. Overall, the Celebration Chase weekend delivered a blend of triumph and tragedy, showcasing the unpredictable nature of National Hunt racing. Edwardstone’s win added a memorable chapter to his storied career, while the loss of Thistle Ask reminded everyone of the sport’s inherent risks.
Meanwhile, emerging talents like Havaila provided a glimpse of future stars, ensuring that the excitement and drama of British racing continue to captivate fans worldwide.