Jonbon Seeks Cheltenham Breakthrough in Competitive Ryanair Chase
Wednesday 11 March 2026 marks a pivotal moment for the racing world as the Cheltenham Festival continues with Thursday's card featuring several high-stakes contests. All eyes are on the Grade One Ryanair Chase at 4.00pm, where last year's impressive winner Fact To File returns as the overwhelming favorite. However, seasoned racing analyst Bill Esdaile suggests looking beyond the obvious choice for value, highlighting Jonbon as a compelling alternative.
Fact To File's Dominance Faces Challenge
Fact To File delivered a breathtaking performance in last year's Ryanair Chase, showcasing exceptional jumping ability, pace, and stamina over the two-and-a-half-mile distance. His recent victory in the Irish Gold Cup further solidifies his status as the horse to beat. Trained to perfection, he appears ideally suited for this contest and is expected to start as a short-priced favorite. Yet, at current odds, Esdaile finds him unappealing for betting purposes, prompting a search for each-way opportunities elsewhere in the field.
Jonbon's Resurgence and Cheltenham Credentials
Jonbon has silenced critics with a remarkable return to form this season, most notably winning the Ascot Chase last time out. Despite narratives suggesting he struggles at Cheltenham, his record tells a different story: two wins and four second-place finishes from six starts over fences at Prestbury Park. A costly error in last year's Champion Chase marred his effort, but his determined rally to secure second behind Marine Nationale demonstrated his class and heart.
Now aged ten and trained by Nicky Henderson, Jonbon has benefited significantly from an increased trip distance. Victories in the Clarence House Chase at Ascot over two miles and one furlong, followed by the Ascot Chase over two and a half miles, highlight his adaptability. The longer distance reduces pressure on his jumping, allowing him to utilize his stamina more effectively. The demanding New Course at Cheltenham, with its extended intervals between obstacles, should play to his strengths, setting the stage for a powerful finish up the hill.
At odds of 6/1 with BetMGM, Jonbon represents substantial each-way value. A victory would not only break his Festival duck but also deliver an emotional triumph for connections and supporters.
Other Key Contenders and Betting Insights
Beyond the Ryanair Chase, Thursday's card offers additional betting opportunities. In the Pertemps Final at 4.40pm, Supremely West emerges as a popular choice. Trained by Dan Skelton, this eight-year-old qualified for the race in October and has since been prepared with this target in mind. His form has been consistently solid, and he appears well-handicapped to challenge his rivals.
For those seeking a longer shot, Bold Endeavour presents an intriguing option. Now ten years old, he boasts an impressive record of 4225 at Cheltenham and races off a mark 13 pounds lower than when he finished fourth in this event two years ago. After a stint with Laura Morgan, he has returned to Nicky Henderson's yard, which saddled the winner of this race last season.
The day concludes with the Kim Muir at 5.20pm, a race historically dominated by owner JP McManus. While his entries Jeriko Du Reponet and Waterford Whispers lead the market, concerns persist about Jeriko's jumping and Waterford Whispers' stamina on potentially firmer ground. Instead, Herakles Westwood offers each-way appeal at 9/1. With three strong performances at Cheltenham this season, including a win on New Year's Day, he combines staying power with proven course form.
Thursday's Recommended Bets
- Jonbon each-way – 4.00pm Cheltenham (Ryanair Chase)
- Supremely West – 4.40pm Cheltenham (Pertemps Final)
- Bold Endeavour each-way – 4.40pm Cheltenham (Pertemps Final)
- Herakles Westwood each-way – 5.20pm Cheltenham (Kim Muir)
As the Cheltenham Festival unfolds, these selections reflect a blend of proven talent, strategic training moves, and calculated risk-taking. Whether Jonbon can finally secure his Festival moment or another contender rises to the occasion, Thursday promises thrilling racing action and potential rewards for astute bettors.
