Jonbon Registers Tenth Grade 1 Victory

Back-to-back wins in the Melling Chase made it 10 Grade 1 wins for Nicky Henderson and JP McManus’ Jonbon (9g Walk In The Park – Star Face, by Saint Des Saints).

The star chaser was sent off favourite to retain his crown at Aintree on Friday and raced prominently throughout under regular rider Nico de Boinville. The bay had a two-length advantage turning for home, drew further clear from the second last, and though Protektorat made a gallant effort to chase him down, led by three and a quarter lengths on the line.

A delighted Henderson said: “They went some clip - I don't know what the time was, but it must have been quick. Whether he's short or long [at his fences] - he's very clever when he dances, isn't he? Not many horses can jump that well, that fast. We'll certainly think about going to Sandown again.”

“Jonbon was an absolute superstar today,” de Boinville added. “He was incredibly brave and courageous when I needed him to be and he made the job easy. Credit to him, he's got us out of a tough period.”

Bred by Lotfi Kohli, Jonbon is a full-brother to another brilliant chaser in Douvan (Walk In The Park).