Paul Nicholls: "No excuses" for Politologue's defeat in the Clarence House Chase
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Tue 5 Dec 2023
Paul Nicholls has taken Politologue’s defeat at Ascot on the chin and will now prepare the grey for the defence of his Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase crown.
The Ditcheat handler was happy with the run of Politologue and just felt he was “beaten by a better horse on the day” when going down by seven lengths to First Flow in the Clarence House Chase.
John Hales’ 10-year-old will head straight to the Cheltenham Festival without another run.
Paul Nicholls spoke to Nick Luck on Racing TV after Politologue's effort in the Clarence House Chase
“No excuses, he got beat by a better horse on the day. He ran a good, solid race, he galloped all the way to the line. I’m very happy with him,” said Nicholls.
“He’s fine. All is well with him.
“He won’t run again before the Champion Chase.”
Nicholls was delighted with the way Yala Enki overcame a bad mistake at the fourth-last fence to win the Portman Cup for the second year running at Taunton.
The 11-year-old had led to that point but lost the lead to If The Cap Fits, before he rallied in tremendous fashion for Bryony Frost to regain the advantage between the last two fences and score by five lengths.
“He did well to recover from his mistake. He galloped on strongly,” said Nicholls.
“He’s fresh and well today. I’ve made no plans for him.
“Obviously it was nice race to win with him. He’s a proper horse.”
Related posts
Aidan O'Brien Betfred Derby Festival Stable Tour and more
Racing TV French Champion Hurdle: Losange Bleu regains crown
Sky Bet Sunday Series tips: Angus McNae likes a 12-1 chance
Hollie Doyle shines from the front on Your Song
Selma De Vary lands French Triumph for Mullins and Townend
Featured offers
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets with Betano
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets + Money back 2nd to SP fav with BOYLE Sports
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £40 in free bets with Kwiff
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 & Get £30 in free bets with bet365
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets in Multis with Betfair
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved