Jig’s Forge too good for Lucky Place in Newbury match

Only two went to post for the Hoorrrraaaayyyy It’s Christmas Queens Arms “Chasing Excellence” Beginners’ Chase at Newbury and it was the outsider of the pair Jig’s Forge who got the better of Lucky Place.

With a yawning 20lb between them on hurdling marks, Nicky Henderson’s Lucky Place was understandably favoured in the market at odds of 4-9, having won the Ascot Hurdle and the Relkeel at Cheltenham this time last year.

He had been well beaten on his chasing debut, but was expected to improve markedly with that experience under his belt. However, while he did not make any serious mistakes, it would be hard to say he looked a natural.

Ben Pauling’s Jig’s Forge, on the other hand, jumped with alacrity in front and never at any stage looked like being caught.

Jones, riding with the confidence of a man that comes with the volume of winners he is partnering currently, always looked to have Nico de Boinville’s measure and the 4-9 favourite was beaten a length and a half.