Missing Cheltenham not out of the question for Jonbon

Nicky Henderson would love nothing more than for Jonbon to gain an overdue first victory at the Cheltenham Festival in a fortnight’s time – but his participation is still not certain.

The winner of 20 of his 27 career outings, the JP McManus-owned gelding has never been out of the first two in his life, and has finished second in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, Arkle and Queen Mother Champion Chase at the showpiece meeting.

He stepped up in trip to win the Ascot Chase last time out and the Ryanair looks an obvious option for the 10-year-old, but McManus also has last year’s winner Fact To File in the mix – yet he is favourite for the Gold Cup, despite not currently being entered.

“Jonbon’s target depends on a lot of things. He’s had four tough races and his last two he had big battles on his hands in testing ground,” said Henderson.

“He’s a better horse on better ground. I think we can say he won’t be in the Queen Mother, but never say no. I did once and I think the only thing to do is take them out.

“It would be my dearest wish for him to win at the Festival, it would be awfully sad if after all these fantastic races, don’t forget he’s been second at the Festival a few times and won a few Shloers – he just deserves one on his epitaph.

“I think he’s just been unlucky. He missed the start last year because the tape hit him in the face, yet he still finished second. I’d love to try it, but we’ll see how he is, he could go to Aintree fresh and Punchestown – he’s never tasted Guinness in his life.”

One star definitely not at Cheltenham is Sir Gino, who picked up another infection when getting an injury on Trials day.

Henderson said: “He’s good, they are pleased but there’s basically no change. The longer he goes without it deteriorating is good, but he’ll still be in hospital for some foreseeable time. Hopefully the infection is under control, but it could still go the wrong way.”