Full Breakdown
Il Etait Temps Triumphs in Tingle Creek Chase
12/6/2025, 8:27:07 PM
Dominant Performance in the Tingle Creek Chase
Il Etait Temps, trained by Willie Mullins, showcased his prowess by winning the Grade One Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown on December 6, 2025. Starting as the 8-11 favorite, Il Etait Temps secured a decisive victory, finishing nine lengths ahead of Jonbon, the two-time winner of this race, with L’Eau Du Sud, trained by Dan Skelton, taking third place. The race unfolded as a competitive three-horse contest, with Jonbon initially leading alongside L’Eau Du Sud and Il Etait Temps. However, as they approached the final turn, jockey Paul Townend on Il Etait Temps demonstrated superior control, ultimately cruising to victory.
Background of Il Etait Temps
Il Etait Temps has had a notable career, winning six of his previous eight chase starts, including a significant victory over Jonbon in the Celebration Chase earlier in the year. This latest win marks his seventh success in nine chase outings, with five victories at the Grade One level. Following this performance, he has emerged as a co-favorite for the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival, alongside Marine Nationale and Majborough.
Insights from Trainers and Jockeys
Nicky Henderson, trainer of Jonbon, acknowledged the challenge posed by Il Etait Temps, stating that the latter's performance was impressive. Paul Townend expressed satisfaction with Il Etait Temps's development, noting, “He jumps, he stays, he travels,” indicating the horse's versatility and readiness for future competitions. Meanwhile, Nicky Henderson commented on the potential trajectory for Lulamba, another standout from the day, suggesting that the horse could be a contender in upcoming races.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the success of Il Etait Temps, the day did not start favorably for all punters, particularly with Sober Glory, a 4-7 favorite, finishing fourth in the opening Claremont Novice Hurdle. This outcome highlights the unpredictable nature of horse racing, where favorites do not always secure victory.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, connections of Il Etait Temps are optimistic about his chances at the Cheltenham Festival, with part-owner Wayne Kieswetter expressing that a win there would be a dream come true, equating it to a significant personal milestone. The anticipation surrounding Il Etait Temps's next races is palpable, as he is now regarded as a leading contender in the two-mile chase division.
Verbatim Quotes
- “com/y4L7PI4pEc — Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 6, 2025 “He’s grown up in the fact you can ask him for a jump early and you’re not setting him alight, he’ll come back to you.” — Paul Townend, Jockey
- “He was a bit unlucky not to win a Triumph Hurdle, but this was always going to be his game whether it was now or we waited another year.” — Nicky Henderson, Trainer of Lulamba
- “Winning at the Cheltenham Festival would be like winning the world championships wouldn’t it.” — Wayne Kieswetter, Part-owner of Il Etait Temps
Il Etait Temps's victory in the Tingle Creek Chase not only solidifies his status in the racing community but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead as he prepares for the prestigious Cheltenham Festival.
