Preview

The feature event at Sandown on Saturday brings together a select but high-class field for the Celebration Chase, traditionally a farewell stage for some of the season’s top two-milers. A strong renewal is in prospect despite the small field, and there is plenty to consider before placing a bet.

Strongest Contender

Jonbon (TFR 184) sets a very high standard and rightly commands serious respect. Already a two-time winner of this race, the Nicky Henderson-trained gelding comes here following another impressive Grade 1 success at Aintree. A wonderfully consistent and durable performer, Jonbon handles Sandown particularly well – his front-running style suiting this track – and he is proven on good ground. He can overcome any pace scenario, as Timeform note, and although he has been beaten twice at odds-on in-running, his overall profile is exemplary. Nicky Henderson has won this race six times in the last ten years and clearly targets it with his best.

Main Dangers

Energumene (TFR 175+) is a notable threat if bouncing back to his best. The two-time Champion Chase hero was pulled up on his most recent start, reportedly losing his action, but prior to that looked as sharp as ever when winning the Hilly Way Chase at Cork. Trained by Willie Mullins, who boasts a healthy 30% strike rate with chasers at up to 2m3f, Energumene must be treated with respect if the market speaks in his favour. Coming off a 45-day absence, it would be wise to monitor any significant drifts pre-race.

Il Etait Temps (TFR 173), another Mullins contender, brings progressive novice form to the table having landed the Manifesto Novices’ Chase and Punchestown’s Barberstown Castle Novices’ Chase last season. However, he has not been seen for almost a year, and caution is advised with horses reappearing after such lengthy breaks. Any marked market weakness could indicate fitness concerns, though he is a genuine type who could figure if tuned up.

Among the outsiders, Edwardstone (TFR 171) is a smart performer at his best and is a former Grade 1 winner at Sandown. His recent form is patchy, but he has the course form and tactical versatility to pick up pieces if the race falls apart late on.

Pertinent Trends and Comments

• Trainer Trends: Nicky Henderson is dominant in this race historically and has a major player again with Jonbon. Paul Nicholls, who isn’t represented this year, was another to watch with past wins courtesy of Greaneteen and others.
• Pace Forecast: Timeform suggest a “very weak” pace overall, but Jonbon’s proven adaptability should nullify any concerns over tactical scenarios.
• Ground: Officially described as good, which suits all the main contenders.
• Market Watch: Horses without a recent run – notably Il Etait Temps – should be watched closely for any market drifts indicating a lack of fitness.
• In-Running Watch: Jonbon has traded short in defeat before, so any mid-race hesitations could present opportunities if playing in-running markets.

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Summary:
Jonbon appears very hard to oppose, given his track record, consistency and the excellent record of his trainer in this contest. Energumene is the class act capable of upsetting him if returning to peak form, while Il Etait Temps is an intriguing contender if fit. Keep a watchful eye on the market, especially for those reappearing after breaks.