King George: Banbridge returns in Il Est Français for the glory of Kempton | Racing Information

Paul Townend timed it to perfection on Banbridge to put on down Il Est Français and land the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton.

The French raider, educated by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, had put in a spectacular show of leaping beneath James Reveley and his straight flip had prolonged his result in round 10 lengths.

Nevertheless, Paul Townend, on Banbridge (7-1), educated by Joseph O’Brien, was in nice kind and took down the exuberant favourite, who had been so spectacular on this 12 month card. There’s.

Starting to tire, Il Est Français discovered himself too shut till the final, giving Banbridge an opportunity and when he met him on a protracted stride, he landed with all his momentum and continued to win d ‘one and three quarters size.

Given the best way the race went, with Il Est Français placing them to the sword in a method or one other, some excellent horses have been by no means concerned.

The likes of Spillane’s Tower, Envoi Allen and Grey Dawning, who made an early mistake, by no means made the races.

It was L’Homme Presse, which was in its first version of the season, which did the perfect in third place, with The Actual Whacker justifying the choice to exchange it by ending fourth for a second consecutive yr.

O’Brien stated: “It is a particular win. I am delighted for Ronnie (Bartlett, proprietor) and the staff. He is been a particular horse for us over the previous couple of years.

“Successful a race just like the King George is a dream, though I really feel somewhat sorry for JJ (Slevin, a daily jockey who rode in Eire) who has a fantastic affiliation with the horse however who could not come journey him at present, Paul gave him a fantastic journey. It is a very special occasion.

“Kempton is a flat observe and at this distance velocity is extra vital than at different locations. Paul was glad to discover a good tempo and the race went nicely for him.

“I really thought Il Est Français was going dwelling, however our horse made a robust run to the road. His resolve and stamina have been examined, however he had sufficient for at present .

“It’s actually particular, I grew up watching it, to have a runner is particular however to win is a dream come true.

“We’re going to get pleasure from at present, see the way it is available in, focus on plans and see what we’d all love to do.”

He added: “After Punchestown Ronnie referred to as me and stated he wish to strive the King George, we deliberate to do two runs over two miles to refine his soar, we put the helmet again on and we felt he was able to run his legs.”