Get ready, racing fans! Harry Cobden is poised to ride the star chaser Jonbon, owned by JP McManus, in Saturday's prestigious BetMGM Clarence House Chase at Ascot. This news is a significant development, especially considering Cobden's upcoming role. But here's where it gets exciting: Cobden will officially become McManus's retained rider in both Britain and Ireland starting in May, making this race a sneak peek of their future partnership.
Cobden is listed on the BHA Admin website to ride the Nicky Henderson-trained Jonbon, who previously triumphed over Energumene in a Grade 1 race at Ascot last season.
Jonbon has shown consistent form this season, finishing second in both the Shloer Chase and the Tingle Creek. He's set to compete against Il Etait Temps, who bested him last month. Despite the loss, Jonbon's Racing Post Rating was only 3lb shy of his best, indicating his continued high level of performance. In the £175,000 contest, Jonbon is the 9-2 second favorite, trailing Il Etait Temps, who is the 8-15 favorite. This race is more than just a competition; it's a chance for Cobden and McManus to kick off their partnership with a bang.
Cobden, who has a record of 13 wins from 66 races for McManus in Britain, will be aiming for his first win for Henderson. Interestingly, his record with the Seven Barrows trainer is currently 0-3, with his best result being a second-place finish on Bold Endeavour in a handicap hurdle at Haydock in May 2023.
Meanwhile, Nico de Boinville, who has been Jonbon's jockey in 11 of the last 13 races, is expected to ride stablemate Old Park Star in the Supreme Trial at Haydock on the same day. Old Park Star is the favorite with Ladbrokes at a best price of 4-5 for the Grade 2. The six-year-old, owned by Gordon and Su Hall, has won both races since joining from Paul Nicholls in the summer. He is also a joint-second favorite for the Supreme.
De Boinville is returning to racing after a fall on New Year's Day. He had to pass a concussion test to be cleared to ride again. His comeback ride will be on As The Fella Says in the concluding handicap chase at Windsor on Friday.
This situation raises an interesting question: With Cobden taking the reins, will we see a shift in the dynamics of McManus's racing team? What do you think about the potential impact of this new partnership? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
