El Fabiolo and Paul Townend © Photo Healy Racing
El Fabiolo justified his short price when running out a cosy winner of the Bar One Hilly Way Chase on his return to action at Cork this afternoon.
Last year's impressive Arkle winner went to post a 1/5 shot in the Grade 2 contest and Willie Mullins' charge tracked the leaders in the two-miler.
His jumping was a bit sticky early but he warmed to his task and jumped into a narrow lead five from home.
The Spanish Moon gelding flew the second last to assert from nearest pursuer Fil Dor
He was a bit tight at the last, and landed slightly awkwardly, but the result never looked in doubt as Paul Townend kept him up to his work late on to record a four-and-three-quarter length win.
"I was a little worried as I had five other runners today and none of them shone so I was thinking this could be one of those days but he got the job done. He was workmanlike and was very free with Paul over the first three fences,” said Mullins.
"He didn't get too high (in jumping) and Paul was trying to not let his head go and didn't want him running too free. He relaxed at the second fence down the back straight and was able to do things properly. If he needed a race, Jack Kennedy (on runner-up Fil Dor) was there to test him and he did."
He added:- "Jonbon did his job nicely, we got the job done today and we all have to get to Cheltenham now. I don't where we'll go now - we'll look at Christmas as well but he will probably go to Ascot (Clarence House Chase)."
Regarding his dual Champion Chase winner Energumene, who won the last two renewals of today's race, he said:- "He is in great shape considering and while he is out for the season, hopefully will be back at some stage."
Betfair left the winner unchanged at 10/11 for the Champion Chase with Jonbon 5/2 second favourite. Coral are also unchanged at even-money with Jonbon 9/4.
(Quotes by Tom Weekes)
