3 minute read

Joseph O’Brien and Paul Townend teamed up to devastating effect when Banbridge came with a wet sail to deny Il Est Francais in a thrilling renewal of the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day.

The festive feature looked to be heading across the Channel as Il Est Francais and James Reveley jumped their way into a commanding lead on the first circuit. Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm's six-year-old jumped with aplomb throughout, but it was evident the petrol gauge was beginning to empty as he approached the second last. Banbridge continued to close the gap and with a good leap at the last, Joseph O'Brien's contender jumped his way alongside Il Est Francais, who himself made a tired-looking shape over the final fence.

Il Est Francais attempted to get back on terms after the last, but Joseph O'Brien's eight-year-old landed running and was a length and three quarters too strong crossing the line.

"It was a special win. I'm very proud of the horse, and the team at home," said Joseph O'Brien.

"Ronnie (Bartlett, owner) said after Punchestown this was the race to target, and I'm delighted for him. He has supported me very well since I started training, and it doesn't get any bigger than this.

"When he won the Silviniaco Conti here last season he looked like he wouldn't have any problem going further. We shortened him up earlier in the season as we wanted to have him sharp for a track like this.

"The plan was to have the two runs then come here. It was probably in the back of our minds after the Silviniaco Conti last year, but Ronnie really wanted to target it after Punchestown. Paul gave him a fantastic ride.

"Kempton is a flat track, and speed is emphasised more than most places. Paul was happy to find a nice rhythm and the race panned out nicely for him. I thought Il Est Francais was gone to be honest turning for home, but our horse made a sustained run all the way to the line. His resolution and stamina were tested, but he had enough for today.

"This is really special as I grew up watching races like this ever since I could walk and talk. To have a runner in the race is very special and to win it is a dream come true. We will enjoy today and see how he pulls up."

Paul Townend, who enjoying his first success in the contest and bouncing back from being defeated on Lossiemouth in the Christmas Hurdle earlier on the card, said: "My kind of worry was that there was nothing to bridge the gap, but I was able to get close enough to him (Il Est Francais) with company to get competitive.

"I knew when I saw James moving going to the second last that it was really on.

"There was a question mark about his stamina and that is why I rode him like I did.

"Joseph and I had a chat before, and I was conscious the cheekpieces might make him do too much. I jumped into Spillane's Tower and that put me where I was and made up my mind for me.

"I have ridden two big race winners on outsiders this season and they have both been for Joseph – he can train all right."