Alan King’s seasoned campaigner Edwardstone captured his fourth Grade One victory in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, a win that seemed to turn back the clock for the veteran gelding. The race unfolded on a day that also saw Dan Skelton earn his first champion trainer title and become the inaugural trainer to breach the £5 million prize‑money milestone. Tragically, Skelton’s own star, Thistle Ask, who had dominated the season, suffered a fatal injury during the two‑mile contest, casting a somber shadow over the festivities.
The incident with Thistle Ask was dramatic and heartbreaking. While attempting to avoid the fallen horse, stablemate Mirabad lost jockey Tristan Durrell, and Joseph O’Brien’s Solness was unable to find a rhythm on the day. This left JPR One in a leading position for a spell, but he was soon pressured by a tightening field. Edwardstone, starting at 11‑1, and his regular rider Tom Cannon, seized the opportunity, staying on strongly as they approached the steep uphill finish that had previously seen Edwardstone claim the Tingle Creek in December 2022.
After the race, King described the victory as “one of the most emotional wins” of his career. He praised Edwardstone’s recent form, noting that a preparatory run at Plumpton had sharpened the horse and brought out a speed he had never displayed before.
King recalled a conversation with Cannon before the start, where the jockey asked whether he should “rev him up” and King replied that the work done at Plumpton was sufficient, leaving the gelding ready to perform without extra urging. He added that if Cannon could stay a few lengths behind at the Pond Fence, they would have a strong chance, and the plan paid off. King reflected on the day’s atmosphere, saying the crowd’s energy was “superb” and that walking back with Edwardstone felt “tremendous.” He emphasized the bond between horse and rider, noting that despite the many “down days” in racing, moments like this rank among the very best.
He also hinted that Edwardstone’s Grade One days might have seemed behind him, but circumstances—including the absence of Jonbon and the tragic loss of Thistle Ask—opened a window for his resurgence. Looking ahead, King dismissed any immediate retirement talk, insisting that Edwardstone still loves tackling the home hill, a familiar challenge he has faced countless times.
He expressed a desire to keep the partnership alive as long as the horse feels able, trusting Edwardstone to signal when he’s had enough. Tom Cannon echoed King’s sentiments, describing the race as “perfectly executed” and noting that his familiarity with the course helped him anticipate the horse’s rhythm.
He credited the Plumpton run for giving Edwardstone the fitness and confidence needed to excel at Sandown. Cannon called Edwardstone a “great servant,” acknowledging the many memorable days the gelding has provided and suggesting this victory could be the pinnacle of their shared achievements. He also praised Alan King for his training acumen, stating that King deserves significant credit for the result.
The day’s sorrowful side was addressed in an official statement from Sandown regarding Thistle Ask. The statement confirmed that the horse sustained an injury during the Celebration Chase, was examined by the venue’s specialist veterinary team, and was humanely euthanised in the interest of his welfare.
The track expressed heartfelt condolences to the horse’s caretakers and connections. In another highlight of the meeting, Havaila, a seven‑year‑old trained by Gary and Josh Moore, continued his rapid ascent by winning the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown under a patient ride from jockey Caoilin Quinn.
Although the overall quality and depth of the field were not as robust as in previous years, Havaila proved his class, emerging as a genuine contender for next year’s Grand National. He had previously won the Sussex National and entered the Gold Cup carrying a 10‑pound penalty, yet the 5‑1 shot remained prominent throughout the race. Havaila faced a test at the Pond Fence when rivals Our Power and Road To Home attempted to challenge him.
Despite a slightly awkward stride approaching the final, Havaila rallied powerfully, edging out Our Power by a short head, with Road To Home a neck behind in third place. Gary Moore praised Caoilin Quinn for delivering a superb ride, noting that the jockey had “stepped up this year” and deserved recognition. Moore expressed optimism about Havaila’s future, hoping the horse would be sound after the demanding effort and suggesting a potential Grand National campaign in the coming season.
Overall, the Celebration Chase meeting offered a mixture of triumph and tragedy, showcasing the unpredictable nature of National Hunt racing. Edwardstone’s win reminded fans that experience and careful preparation can still overcome younger rivals, while the loss of Thistle Ask served as a stark reminder of the sport’s inherent risks. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Havaila provided a glimpse of the next generation of stars, ensuring that the excitement and narrative of British jump racing will continue to evolve in the months ahead.