Fire still burning bright as Edwardstone is brave in defeat behind Jonbon at Cheltenham

November 15

Edwardstone lost nothing in defeat when put in his place for a fourth time by his arch-rival Jonbon in today’s Grade 2 Shloer Chase at Cheltenham.

Starting the 9-2 second-favourite behind the red-hot market-leader Jonbon (1-3), who took up the running from the start, Edwardstone was in the stalking position throughout.

However, had to give best to his two-years younger rival Jonbon from the final fence, and, with Tom Cannon accepting that our 10-year-old superstar had given his all, Edwardstone was passed for second place by Boothill in the last 100 yards,

However, whereas last year Jonbon powered clear in the straight to leave Edwardstone toiling nine and a half lengths behind, this time there were only two and a quarter lengths between them at the line,

Alan was well satisfied with Edwardstone’s comeback run. He said:”I thought for a horse who is coming up for his 11th birthday it was a very pleasing run.

“Edwardstone will now likely take on Jonbon for a fifth time in the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown in three weeks time. I’d like to think that our fellow will come on for this reappearance, but then, I would assume, so will Jonbon.

“I am just happy that Edwardstone has run right up to his best yet again – he has been a star for us and, hopefully, there will be a few more races in him yet.”