THE KINCREDIBLES
Shishkin wins Clarence classic as Nico says: What willpower, what a champion
SHISHKIN drew on his indomitable will when he needed it most to beat Energumene in a Clarence House Chase that lived up to every last line of its billing at Ascot.
The clash between the best two-mile chasers in Britain and Ireland – unbeaten in 11 races
between them over the larger obstacles – was promoted as the race of the National Hunt season so far.
And it didn’t disappoint.
For most of the SBKsponsored Grade 1 test, Nico de Boinville struggled for rhythm aboard the Nicky Henderson-saddled Shishkin as Paul Townend and Energumene dictated the pace at the head of the four-runner field.
The 5-6 favourite still had two lengths to find on the run to the final fence.
But he answered his jockey’s every last call to draw level on the strain to the line and overcome his Willie Mullins-trained opponent by one length. “Two out, it looked like we were on the ropes, but one thing this horse will do – he’ll fight for you,” said Henderson. “He’s a very tough horse – he’s always been able to find what’s needed – and Nico doesn’t give up easily.
“Nico said it gave him the best buzz of his whole
life. That says something, when you’ve ridden a Gold Cup winner.
“They are two very, very, very good horses – two proper two-mile chasers.
“It’s been built up. It lived up to it.”
De Boinville (left) added: “Paul was jumping so slickly in front and gaining lengths over his fences and I was just trying to keep tabs on him.
“We were starting to gain going into the last. I didn’t get the jump I needed, but he seemed to find a will to win. He’s a champion.”
The result prompted Ladbrokes to cut Shishkin to 4-6 from evens favourite for the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham on March 16, easing Energumene to 3-1 from 2-1.
“This is only round one,” added Henderson.
“Our job is now to get them there in one piece, and have a rematch.”
Toasting “a terrific race” Mullins smiled: “Shishkin does what he always does – he pretends he’s beaten and then comes and nabs you!
“We’ve no excuses. We ran a cracker – jumped well, did everything right.
“We’ve a bit to go yet before we beat him.”