Jax Junior extended his run of success to land his first win at Grade 2 level in the Pendil Novices’ Chase at Kempton on Saturday, setting up a tilt at the G1 Arkle Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.
Trained by Lucy Wadham for owner-breeder Cheryl Burton, the seven-year-old has now won three times over fences to add to his three wins over hurdles.
“He’s a fantastic jumper. It’s his weapon really, and he’s got a massive turn of foot as well,” said Wadham.
“We wanted to win a Grade 2 before we went for a Grade 1. I think the owners would like to go to Cheltenham and if he’s right we’ll have a crack at the Arkle.”
The day ended in style for Jack Hobbs when his son Fine Shot, bred by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, won the Kempton bumper on his second start for King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The six-year-old was making his second start in the royal colours for Jamie Snowden having finished third on debut at Huntingdon earlier this month. He is out of the Muhtarram mare Midsummer Magic, who won over hurdles for the late Queen and is a half-sister to the dual-winning Kayf Tara geldings Keen On.
