Nicky Henderson's star hurdler Impose Toi announced himself as a leading contender for the Cheltenham Festival with a commanding victory in the Grade 1 Howden Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot on 20 December 2025.
A Step Up in Class
The seven-year-old, ridden by the brilliant Nico de Boinville, confirmed the promise of his previous run to land his first top-level success. Having narrowly defeated Strong Leader in a Grade Two contest at Newbury last month, Impose Toi faced his rival again but on 6lb worse terms. Despite this weight disadvantage, the result was even more decisive, with the winning margin extended to a length and a quarter.
Honesty Policy, the 11-4 favourite who like the winner carries the famous green and gold silks of owner JP McManus, finished a close third, just a neck behind Strong Leader.
Henderson's Delight and Festival Dreams
Trainer Nicky Henderson was visibly pleased with the performance, describing the win as "quite pleasurable to watch." He praised De Boinville's ride, stating, "When you see him going that well turning into the straight, you knew Nico had got them covered. Then you have got to execute but he was pretty flawless."
Henderson also paid tribute to the gallant Strong Leader, saying, "I feel sorry for Strong Leader, who is an admirable horse – we have nailed him twice and, if anything, I think we looked more convincing today." The victory prompted bookmaker Ladbrokes to slash Impose Toi's odds for the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March to 5-1.
McManus Eyes King George Prize
The result provided a perfect festive boost for owner JP McManus, whose attention now turns to Kempton Park on Boxing Day. His star chaser Fact To File will attempt to give the 74-year-old a maiden victory in the prestigious King George VI Chase.
"I’d love to win the King George," McManus admitted. "I’ve been trying since 1978 and was second that year and in ’79 but I haven’t managed to get our nose in front since. Willie [Mullins] seems to be very happy to go and I’m very happy to go. All arrows are pointing to Kempton."
This emphatic Ascot success marks Impose Toi as a serious force in the staying hurdling division, setting up a thrilling path to the Cheltenham Festival in the new year.
