Jonbon delivered a stirring performance to claim victory in the Betfair Ascot Chase, overcoming the gallant Pic d'Orhy in a pulsating straight-long battle. The 4-9 favorite, ridden by Nico de Boinville, dug deep to win by a length and a half after a grueling contest that tested his stamina to the limit.

This marked Jonbon's 12th career victory at the highest level, leaving only Kauto Star ahead of him for that modern-day accolade. Trainer Nicky Henderson praised his star chaser's extraordinary heart and will to win, noting that stamina rather than blistering speed proved decisive. The 10-year-old's remarkable record now includes this latest triumph just 28 days after his dramatic Clarence House Chase success.

With the Cheltenham Festival missing piece still to be claimed, Henderson has his sights set on the Ryanair Chase, where Jonbon is currently 4-1 with Paddy Power. Meanwhile, Pic d'Orhy's brave effort saw him pass the £1million prize-money marker, with trainer Paul Nicholls confirming the 11-year-old will target Aintree next rather than Cheltenham.