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Jonbon secures back-to-back Clarence House Chase wins

BBC Sport •
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Jonbon delivered a commanding performance to win the Clarence House Chase at Ascot for the second consecutive year. The victory was sealed after favourite Il Etait Temps fell at the second-to-last fence, leaving Jonbon to cross the line unchallenged.

This Grade 1 chase is a key early-season target for top two-mile hurdlers. Jonbon's success reinforces his standing as a leading contender for the Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, where he was second last year. The field was smaller than usual, but the quality remained high.

Trainer Nicky Henderson now has a prime candidate for the Festival's feature event. With Il Etait Temps unseating his rider, the race lacked a true battle, but Jonbon's consistency is undeniable. All eyes will now turn to his next planned run ahead of Cheltenham in March.