SHISHKIN v ENERGUMENE.ASCOT SAT.22/0122

This could develop into a high class match race between two very ,very good horses.
Only 4 runners will make it tactical and a right handed track may suit Shishkin more.
First race outside of Ireland for Energumene and though both same age the Irish horse is still relatively lightly raced.
Pre race money has been for Energumene (5/2 - 13/.
Shishkin very comfortable at this distance whereas Energumene will get further.
Race best watched but Energumene impresses with speed and jumping not seen for many years and finished races by wide margins that appeared not to take anything out of him.

Should be a cracker where Shishkin is my slight preference.

Should give an indication who will win the Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

What a fantastic race 👍
This was jump racing at its best 👌

Racing Post

Nicky Henderson called it a proper race, his jockey Nico de Boinville said it was one of the best he had been a part of, but it was the woman running down the escalator at Ascot who perhaps best summed up Shishkin’s defeat of Energumene. “That was glorious,” she exclaimed.

The racegoer was rushing with hundreds of others to make it to the winner’s enclosure to welcome back the pugilists who had fought out a compelling Clarence House Chase which delivered everything that was wished of it – and more.

Two unbeaten records over fences were on the line going into the contest, with Shishkin landing the Desert Orchid Chase on his first start outside novice company last month and Energumene doing the same when dismissing his rivals in the Hilly Way Chase at Cork.

Well done Dave,you judged that race spot on.
Can't say that roles will be reversed at Cheltenham as Shishkin is top class and a gutsy horse.
I think Mullins decision to run Energumene at Ascot was to know whether his horse could beat Shishkin and not wait till Cheltenham to know how good his horse is.
May turn out to be a shrewd move.

I am sure SHISHKIN will win the Champion Chase 🏆