As the Cheltenham Festival looms closer, the excitement builds for some of the most thrilling spectacles in horse racing to take place at Prestbury Park.
One of those is the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Known for its breathtaking speed, testing obstacles, and immensely competitive field, this esteemed Grade 1 race never fails to captivate audiences — both on the track and off.
In this analysis, we look at the runners set to challenge for the Champion Chase. So, without further ado, let’s examine the top horses in the bet horses online markets.
El Fabiolo – 4/9
Under the guidance of renowned trainer Willie Mullins and his reliable stable jockey Paul Townend, El Fabiolo emerges as a formidable contender for the Queen Mother Champion Chase.
Following in the footsteps of Energumene, who clinched victory in the past two editions, El Fabiolo now carries the torch as the odds-on favourite for the day two feature.
Energumene's unfortunate injury sidelines him for the season, paving the way for his stablemate to shine.
With an impeccable record of six consecutive wins over fences, including triumphs in the Grade 2 Hilly Way Chase and Grade 1 Dublin Chase, El Fabiolo stands as a strong favourite to seize the crown.
Jonbon – 3/1
A familiar rival to El Fabiolo, Jonbon boasts a notable victory over the Mullins-trained horse in a hurdle contest at Aintree in 2022.
Despite this, El Fabiolo avenged his defeat at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival — claiming victory in the Arkle by a significant margin.
Nonetheless, Jonbon, trained by Nicky Henderson, has since showcased his prowess over fences with victories in three Grade 1 races and a Grade 2 event.
However, a recent slump in performance at Cheltenham raises doubts about his chances in the Champion Chase — unless he conjures something extraordinary or El Fabiolo falters.
Edwardstone – 7/1
Once hailed as the rising star of the two-mile chasing division, Edwardstone's journey has been marked by highs and lows.
Following a remarkable streak of five consecutive wins in 2021-22, including an Arkle triumph, expectations were high for Alan King’s star.
However, setbacks at Aintree and subsequent underwhelming performances have tempered the excitement amongst pundits and punters alike.
Despite a victory in the Grade 1 Tingle Creek, Edwardstone's form has been inconsistent — culminating in a fifth-place finish in last year's Champion Chase.
A recent win in the Grade 2 Game Spirit Chase offers a glimmer of hope for redemption. Although, El Fabiolo and Jonbon should be too good.
Captain Guinness – 20/1
A dark horse in the competition, Captain Guinness enters as the fourth favourite with significant outsider at odds of 20/1.
Despite the long shot, surprises are not unheard of at the Cheltenham, and Captain Guinness may yet defy expectations to leave his mark on the Champion Chase.
The Henry de Bromhead-trained horse was third in the Dublin Chase from odds of 16/1 when last seen, so could be worth an each-way shout when you consider the inconsistencies of Edwardstone.
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Whoever wins, the 2024 Queen Mother Champion Chase promises to be a spectacle of speed, skill, and determination as these formidable contenders vie for glory on the hallowed grounds of Prestbury Park.
