THE ANTEPOST ANGLE - TINGLE CREEK CHASE

John Arnold looks to one of Sandown's showpiece races of the year as the illustrious Tingle Creek Chase sets to take place. Here's John's race analysis as he hopes to pinpoint some antepost punts. History:

The Tingle Creek Chase, named after the famed Tingle Creek area in Devon, has become one of the premier events in the National Hunt racing calendar since its inaugural run in 1979. Established at Sandown Park, the race was introduced to honour the outstanding steeplechaser Tingle Creek, who achieved remarkable success in the late 1970s. Initially a lesser-known contest, the Tingle Creek quickly gained esteem as one of the season's key two-mile chases. Its short distance and competitive fields have attracted some of the best horses in the sport, showcasing the talents of notable winners such as the legendary Moscow Flyer and the exceptional Sprinter Sacre, both of whom left a lasting impact on racing history.

Over the years, the Tingle Creek Chase has evolved, reinforcing its place as a crucial preparatory race for the prestigious Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. 

Trends:

Age- 10 of the last 12 winners were aged between 6 and 8.

Price- 7 of last 12 winners were fav/joint favourites, 10/12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting.

Last Run- 6 of the last 12 winners won on their last run before the race.

Course Form- 10/12 winners had 1 previous run at Sandown, 9/12 winners had at least 1 previous win at the course.

Distance Form- 11/12 winners had at least 10 runs over 15-17 furlongs.

Rating- 11/12 winners were rated 161 or higher.

Contenders:

JONBON is amongst the standout declared runners, after winning the 2024 renewal but also being beaten on his stable debut at Cheltenham's November Meeting. The Nicky Henderson-trained horse was fortunate to place second as it looked for a brief moment it could be his first ever placing outside the top three in a Grade 1 contest.

Had it not been for Matata almost unseating JJ Slevin, Nico De Boinville would have had to settle for the third behind the mare and the impressive L’EAU DU SUD. JONBON finished 15 lengths behind the grey Skelton-trained gelding at an SP of 5/6, but it's Il ETAIT TEMPS Il who will be the big favourite on the day. The Willie Mullins-trained horse won over course and distance in the bet365 Celebration Chase in April, also beating JONBON on the day by over five lengths. It will be a great battle if JONBON is back to his best for his second run, along with the clearly improved L’EAU DU SUD.

Selections

IL ETAIT TEMPS (WIN)

L’EAU DU SUD EW(/)

written by John Arnold