Il Etait Temps shines, setting the stage for a thrilling Jonbon rematch!
The racing world is buzzing with anticipation as Il Etait Temps, the talented grey horse, dominated the Clonmel Oil Chase, effortlessly securing a rematch with Jonbon at Sandown. This highly anticipated showdown promises to be a highlight of the racing calendar.
Trained by the renowned Willie Mullins, Il Etait Temps made a triumphant return to the track after a significant injury-induced hiatus. In April, at Sandown, he claimed the Celebration Chase, outperforming the Nicky Henderson-trained Jonbon. This victory was especially remarkable given his prolonged absence.
Il Etait Temps' impressive resume boasts multiple Grade One titles, solidifying his status as the 2-9 favorite for the 2025-26 season opener at Grade Two level. Among his competitors were Intense Raffles, a former Irish Grand National champion, and Gentleman De Mee, the Topham winner. However, Il Etait Temps' superiority was evident as he comfortably secured an 18-length victory, leaving Senecia, a 22-1 outsider, in second place.
Jockey Paul Townend shared his insights, revealing that Il Etait Temps' early calmness had him questioning if it was too much. Despite his initial concerns, Townend found himself in a commanding position after just two jumps, ultimately taking the lead earlier than planned. He acknowledged the horse's exceptional speed and anticipated further improvement.
With this win, Il Etait Temps becomes the joint-favorite alongside Jonbon for the upcoming Tingle Creek race. Mullins had previously indicated his intention to target this prestigious event.
Townend elaborated on Il Etait Temps' journey, highlighting the horse's consistent engine power but acknowledging the challenges they faced with his jumping technique over hurdles. However, he excels at fence jumping, showcasing his agility despite his modest size.
In other racing news, Spindleberry, also trained by Willie Mullins, continued her unbeaten streak over fences, winning the TA Morris Memorial Irish EBF Mares Chase. After a successful transition from hurdles, she dominated last season, winning all three starts. This season, she kicked off with a Listed level victory at Clonmel as the 2-5 favorite, showcasing her versatility.
Gordon Elliott's Kovanis emerged victorious in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle, while Henry de Bromhead's Scope To Improve impressed in the Connolly's Red Mills Irish EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle, winning by five lengths on his debut. These victories highlight the depth of talent in Irish racing.
But here's where it gets intriguing: With Il Etait Temps' dominant performance, is he now the clear favorite for the Tingle Creek, or will Jonbon's supporters argue otherwise? What do you think about this highly anticipated rematch? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!
