History was made at Sandown Park on Saturday as the talented chaser L'Eau Du Sud galloped to a commanding victory in the prestigious Tingle Creek Chase. The triumph marked a significant milestone for trainer Dan Skelton and his stable, securing a rare and coveted autumn Grade One double.
A Masterful Performance at Sandown
Under a perfectly judged ride, L'Eau Du South showcased both speed and stamina to see off a high-quality field in the two-mile contest. The victory followed the horse's earlier Grade One success in the Manifesto Novices' Chase at Aintree's Grand National meeting the previous season. This achievement of winning two top-level chases in a single calendar year is a feat accomplished by very few, placing the seven-year-old gelding among the elite of the current chasing division.
The race unfolded as a tactical affair, with the pace solid from the outset. L'Eau Du South, always travelling strongly for his jockey, moved menacingly into contention approaching the final turn. Showing a potent turn of foot after the last fence, he pulled clear up the famous Sandown hill to win by a decisive margin. The performance underlined his status as a leading contender for the season's major two-mile prizes.
Skelton's Rising Star
For trainer Dan Skelton, the victory was a testament to his skill in preparing a horse to peak for the biggest days. Speaking after the race, Skelton was full of praise for his charge, highlighting the careful planning that went into the campaign. "To win a race of this stature is always special, but to do it with a horse who is still improving makes it even more satisfying," Skelton remarked. He confirmed that the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival would now be the primary target for the season.
The win also represents a significant boost for the Skelton yard, firmly establishing them as a major force in the top tier of National Hunt racing. It continues a remarkable run of form for the stable, which has been consistently challenging the established powerhouses of the sport.
Implications for the Season Ahead
L'Eau Du Sud's emphatic success has immediately reshaped the landscape of the two-mile chasing division. By defeating seasoned Grade One winners, he has thrown down the gauntlet to the established stars. All eyes will now be on his preparation for the festival in March, where a potential showdown with the reigning champions awaits.
The historic nature of his autumn double cannot be overstated. It demonstrates not only sheer class but also remarkable consistency and toughness—qualities essential for the very best chasers. For connections and racing fans alike, L'Eau Du Sud has provided a thrilling narrative to follow throughout the winter months.
With the Tingle Creek now secured, the journey towards Cheltenham begins in earnest. If this performance at Sandown is any indicator, L'Eau Du Sud is a horse capable of writing more chapters in the history books before the season is out.
