LiveScore Racing News: Henderson not taking any risks

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Nicky Henderson is preparing for Cheltenham, which starts in a fortnight
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Trainer Nicky Henderson will be largely wrapping his Cheltenham contenders in cotton wool over the next couple of weeks to make sure they're in top shape for The Festival later this month.

Henderson put 10 of his horses through their paces at Kempton on Tuesday and he intends to keep them ticking over ahead of this year's Festival, which kicks off on March 15. 

Sky Bet Supreme Novices' hope Jonbon was part of the group that enjoyed a workout and Henderson was pleased with his efforts after drifting in the market over the weekend. 

The six-year-old, who was last seen earning a three-length win over Richmond Lake in the Sky Bet Supreme Trial at Haydock on January 22, went out on his own under Aidan Coleman to work out. 

Coleman was on board Epatante later in the day alongside Constitution Hill, under Nico de Boinville, and Tweed Skirt, who was saddled by James Bowen. 

Captain Morgs (Bowen), I Am Maximus (De Boinville) and Ahorsewithnoname (Coleman) came out in the third group, before the day was rounded off with Dusart (De Boinville), Dame De Compagnie (Coleman) and Pistol Whipped (Bowen) having a ride. 

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Henderson was keen to rubbish any rumours surrounding the health and fitness of Jonbon following his market move, claiming "it is rubbish". 

Nicky Henderson has laughed off rumours over Jonbon ahead of Cheltenham

He said: "We just know this sort of thing happens and it is absolute rubbish — at least I know it is rubbish. But trying to convince people! Once it starts, it is a joke. 

"It was all around the racecourse, wherever I went. What is wrong with him? You saw for yourself. He is a bigger price than he was since before he ran!" 

The Seven Barrows handler was satisfied with what he saw from his charges as they look to enjoy a successful week at Prestbury Park. 

He hailed their consistency and revealed his reasoning for sending Jonbon out alone to go through his paces. 

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Henderson added: "I would say by and large there were no nasty shocks, which was good. The amazing thing was their times. They are so consistent, each one was within a second or a second and a half of each one. 

"Some find it easier than others as you saw, but I was so pleased with Jonbon. He is much better doing his own thing. He doesn't need any more winding up. 

"He's fit and I thought he strode out really well." 

Jonbon and Constitution Hill are both expected to be involved in the opening contest of this year's Festival, and Henderson is only planning one further session before that 1.30pm race in a fortnight. 

Henderson said: "They will have a gallop on the grass over a mile on Tuesday. Getting them there fit and well is the important thing. It is squeaky-bum time — and that applies to every trainer in the country."

"They will have a gallop on the grass over a mile on Tuesday. Getting them there fit and well is the important thing. It is squeaky-bum time — and that applies to every trainer in the country."

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