A veteran horse, Edwardstone, defied the odds and rolled back time with a stunning victory in the Coral Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton Park. This 12-year-old, trained by Alan King and ridden by Tom Cannon, was one of four contenders for the Grade Two prize. The race took an unfortunate turn when Kalif Du Berlais unseated jockey Harry Cobden, resulting in a fatal injury. Despite this tragedy, Edwardstone prevailed, winning by a length and three-quarters over Master Chewy at 7-2 odds.
With King away on his annual mid-season break, assistant Robin Smith took center stage, expressing his joy and the significance of the win. Smith, who works closely with Edwardstone daily at Barbury Castle, shared his emotions, saying, "It's a real lump in the throat moment. Seeing him go up the gallop at 12 years old, still full of life, puts a smile on your face."
But here's where it gets controversial... Smith admitted to having doubts during the race, saying, "I was scratching my head, but he picked up and jumped the last two fences beautifully."
The victory was extra special for the team, as Edwardstone is a beloved member of the yard. Smith added, "He's so special to us all. It's been a wonderful journey with him, especially chasing Jonbon in the last couple of seasons. The two and a half-mile distance gave us a new option, and it's wonderful to see him win again."
In other news, Iberico Lord dominated the Coral Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton Park, securing a comprehensive victory. Trained by Nicky Henderson, the 22-1 shot, ridden by James Bowen, rallied around the home turn to sweep past all rivals, securing a four-and-a-half-length win over Neil Mulholland's Double Powerful. This was Bowen's second Lanzarote win, and he expressed his delight, saying, "It's great to ride a winner in these colors (JP McManus)."
And this is the part most people miss... Iberico Lord's victory was his third in prestigious handicap hurdles this season, following his Greatwood and Betfair Hurdle wins in the 2023-24 campaign. Sir Anthony McCoy, JP McManus' representative, was thrilled to see the eight-year-old's return to form, saying, "He's a good little horse, and we'd love to have more like him."
Moving on to the next story, Baron Noir, a six-year-old trained by Alan King, ignited dreams of Cheltenham Festival glory. He showcased his potential by downing Supreme Novices' Hurdle favorite El Cairos in a Punchestown bumper last May. Despite facing a well-regarded opponent, Cristal d'Estruval, in his hurdling debut, Baron Noir bounced back with a win at Uttoxeter, beating a useful rival who has since validated the form.
Sent off as the 4-6 favorite for the Join Coral Bet £10 Get £50 Novices' Hurdle, Baron Noir delivered a comfortable two-and-a-half-length victory, solidifying his reputation. Noel Fehily of the Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate said, "We've always believed in him, but he had to prove it on the track. I think he showed today that he travels strongly and has more to offer."
Fehily continued, "Alan King warned us he would need the run, and the ground was quick. He ran well against decent horses, and in the spring on softer ground, I think you'll see an even better horse."
As for future plans, Fehily said, "Cheltenham is the next stop, I believe. He's had three runs, and I don't think he needs another. I'll discuss with Alan, but I think he's headed straight to the Supreme Novices' Hurdle. We'll enter him in both the Supreme and the Turners, but he looks like a Supreme horse."
So, what do you think? Are these horses ready to conquer Cheltenham? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
