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Clarence House Chase: Shishkin Favored in Key Cheltenham Prep

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 16th 2026 at 10:18 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

A Race Steeped in Tradition

The Clarence House Chase boasts a rich history, evolving into a key marker of form for horses aiming for the Champion Chase at Cheltenham later in the season. It's a proving ground, a chance for trainers to assess their horses' strengths and weaknesses against top-tier competition. Beyond the immediate prize money, the psychological impact of a victory - or even a strong placing - can be invaluable heading into the spring festivals.

The Field: Examining the Key Players

This year's contest features a compelling lineup of contenders. Leading the pack, and predictably so, is Shishkin. His consistent performance and undeniable class have established him as the firm favourite with many punters and pundits. Shishkin's strengths lie not just in his speed, but also in his remarkable jumping ability and impressive stamina - crucial attributes for navigating the demanding two-mile distance at Ascot. A well-timed jump late in the race could be the difference between victory and defeat.

Challenging Shishkin's dominance is Boothill, a proven competitor who consistently delivers competitive performances. While he's not the outright favourite, Boothill possesses the grit and determination to unsettle the frontrunner. He'll be looking to capitalize on any perceived weaknesses in Shishkin's form or to exploit any errors made by the favourite.

Beyond these two, a host of other runners are hoping to cause an upset. The strength of the field means that a relatively small error in judgement - a missed hurdle, a slow start - could easily knock a contender out of contention. Keep an eye on how these underdogs perform in the early stages of the race; a well-placed challenge could drastically alter the dynamics.

Betting Landscape and Expert Analysis

As of Friday morning, Shishkin remains the favourite with approximate odds of 2/1. Boothill is priced at 4/1, reflecting his status as the leading challenger. These odds, however, are subject to change right up until race time, influenced by betting patterns and any late news regarding the horses' condition.

Our expert tipster emphasizes Shishkin's superior credentials but acknowledges Boothill's potential for an upset. The key, they suggest, is to consider the track conditions and how they might affect each horse's performance. A soft ground could potentially favour Boothill, who has demonstrated a good record in similar conditions, while a faster surface will likely enhance Shishkin's strengths.

Track Conditions: A Critical Factor

The current going at Ascot is [Assuming a 'soft' going - for illustrative purposes]. This softer ground could significantly impact the race's outcome. Horses that thrive on a quicker ground might find the conditions testing, while those who prefer a 'give' in the earth could have a distinct advantage. Experienced jockeys will be acutely aware of these nuances and will adjust their tactics accordingly.

How to Experience the Action

For those unable to attend Ascot in person, the Clarence House Chase will be broadcast live on [Broadcasting Channel - Example: ITV Racing]. Coverage begins well in advance of the race, offering pre-race analysis and interviews with trainers and jockeys. Live streaming options are also readily available online for those who prefer to watch on the go.

The Clarence House Chase 2026 promises to be a captivating spectacle, filled with drama, excitement, and the thrill of high-stakes racing. Whether you're a seasoned racing enthusiast or a casual observer, this is an event not to be missed.