As we edge closer to the Cheltenham Festival, the excitement is palpable. Among the stars preparing to shine on National Hunt racing’s biggest stage, one name stands out in the 2m chasing division: Jonbon. Trained by Nicky Henderson and owned by J.P. McManus, this remarkable gelding has risen to the top of the chasing pecking order. Yet, as we look ahead to March, a question lingers: can Jonbon deliver his very best and silence the doubters on the Festival’s ultimate stage?

A Career of Consistency

Jonbon’s career statistics are nothing short of extraordinary. With 17 wins from 20 starts and a perfect 100% place record, he has demonstrated a rare level of consistency. His slick jumping and tactical versatility have made him a standout performer on tracks like Aintree and Sandown, where his speed and finesse shine.

This season, Jonbon has shown further improvement, with a series of dominant displays. His most recent victory at Ascot in the Grade 1 Clarence House Chase was a commanding performance, and it confirmed his place at the top of the 2m chasing ranks. Few can question his credentials, yet his performances at Cheltenham in previous seasons have left just enough room for doubt.



Cheltenham: The True Test

Cheltenham has a way of exposing even the best horses. Its undulating track, stiff uphill finish, and unique demands test not just class but also stamina, grit, and versatility. Jonbon has performed well at Cheltenham, placing second in the 2022 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle behind the incomparable Constitution Hill. However, his defeat in the 2023 Arkle to El Fabiolo raised some concerns. While Jonbon ran a brave race, he was ultimately outstayed by his rival on the demanding Cheltenham track.

The Arkle result highlights the central question surrounding Jonbon: can he bring his very best to the Festival and cope with the relentless nature of the Cheltenham finish? While his slick jumping and tactical versatility are undeniable, it’s at Cheltenham that his mettle will face its toughest test.

The Opposition

Jonbon’s position at the head of the Champion Chase market looks solid. His closest rival, El Fabiolo, could re-emerge as a threat after a likely run at the Dublin Racing Festival. However, El Fabiolo was outgunned by Jonbon at Sandown, and his defeat in last year’s Champion Chase raises questions about his ability to handle Cheltenham’s demands.

Beyond El Fabiolo, the division lacks an obvious standout challenger. This appears to be Jonbon’s race to lose—if he puts his best foot forward, there may be no real danger.

Why the Doubts Persist

For all his brilliance, there is still a nagging doubt about Jonbon’s ability to deliver his very best on the Festival stage. Is he tough enough to deal with the unique demands of Cheltenham? Can he handle the pressure of a tactical race, should it become muddling? Will softer ground dull his speed?

These questions will only be answered in March. Until then, Jonbon remains a horse of immense promise but one who has yet to fully prove himself as an all-terrain star.

Conclusion

Jonbon is poised to make Cheltenham 2025 his crowning moment. His recent performances have been exceptional, and with a smooth preparation under the guidance of Nicky Henderson, he has every chance of triumphing in the Champion Chase. If he delivers his best, it’s hard to see past him.

However, Cheltenham has a way of turning promise into heartbreak, and Jonbon’s past performances leave just enough uncertainty to make this a compelling storyline. Can he prove his doubters wrong and stamp himself as a true Cheltenham champion? We’ll find out in March.

Whatever the outcome, Jonbon’s journey to the Festival is one to savour. After all, this is what makes Cheltenham so special—the anticipation, the stakes, and the chance for greatness.