Shishkin shines in epic Clarence House Chase duel

It was billed as one of the most anticipated clashes in many a year and the duel between SHISHKIN and ENERGUMENE in the Clarence House Chase at Ascot did not disappoint.

It was Tattersalls Cheltenham December Sale graduate SHISHKIN who came out on top after an epic protracted battle up the home straight for Nicky Henderson and owners Mr and Mrs Joe Donnelly. The son of SHOLOKHOV is unbeaten over fences and that was his fourth Grade 1 success to date. Winning jockey Nico de Boinville described the victory as his career highlight to date giving him the biggest thrill he has experienced in the saddle. Shishkin was purchased by David Minton of Highflyer Bloodstock for £170,000 at the 2018 Tattersalls December Sale off Virginia Considine. He was purchased by his handler for €28,000 at the 2017 Tattersalls Ireland Derby Sale.

MINELLA DRAMA continued the great run of the Donald McCain yard when claiming Grade 2 honours in the Patrick Coyne Memorial Altcar Novices’ Chase at Haydock on Saturday. The son of FLEMENSFIRTH jumped with aplomb and put his rivals to the sword to run out a taking winner for connections. His trainer purchased him from John Nallen for £60,000 at the 2020 Tattersalls Cheltenham February Sale.

At Navan THE VERY MAN landed the feature Grade B handicap hurdle for the Jessica Harrington team. The son of Jeremy stayed on strongly after the last to win in tenacious style. He was sold by Stuart Crawford for £210,000 at the 2018 Tattersalls Cheltenham May Sale.

The first Tattersalls Cheltenham Sale of 2022 will take place this Saturday after racing on Festival Trials day in the Tattersalls Cheltenham sales ring. The catalogued is available to view at www.tattersallscheltenham.com