In a heart-pounding Ascot Chase, Jonbon emerged victorious against Pic D'Orhy, leaving the latter heartbroken on a day dedicated to love. This triumph marked Jonbon's 12th Grade One win, a remarkable achievement.
The race was a nail-biter, with Pic D'Orhy, the champion of 2024 and 2025, giving Jonbon, trained by the renowned Nicky Henderson, a run for his money. The two were neck-and-neck as they approached the final jump, but it was Nico de Boinville on Jonbon who found that extra gear to secure the win by a length and a half, despite Harry Cobden's best efforts on Pic D'Orhy.
This victory puts Jonbon in elite company; only the legendary Kauto Star, with 16 Grade One wins over fences, has more triumphs at this level. Henderson praised Jonbon's bravery, referencing his recent win at the Clarence House Chase, just four weeks prior. But here's where it gets controversial - is Jonbon truly in the same league as Kauto Star? Only time will tell.
The race was a clear two-horse affair, with Blow Your Wad finishing a distant third, 14 lengths behind. Pic D'Orhy's trainer, Paul Nicholls, was gracious in defeat, praising his horse's performance as one of his finest.
In other news, Grand Geste stormed to victory in the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase, with a potential £500,000 bonus in sight if he can replicate this form at the Grand National. The race saw Top of the Bill and Neo King finish second and third, respectively, while pre-race favorite Myretown faded and was eventually pulled up.
And this is the part most people miss - is Jonbon's win a sign of a new era in horse racing, or will the veterans like Kauto Star continue to reign supreme? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
