King George VI Chase: Banbridge claims dramatic win over Il Est Francais
Bainbridge beat long-term leaders East of France at the final hurdle to claim a dramatic win in the King George VI Chase at Kempton.
Ridden by James Reveley, Il Est Francais led for almost all three miles on Boxing Day and established a comfortable lead over Bambry Qi (Banbridge) was the only horse who looked likely to challenge, with two horses remaining.
In the end, the leader’s performance was less fluid, with the 7-1 chance better passed by Paul Townend and trainer Joseph O’Brien.
Il Est Francais (9-2) took second place and L’Homme Presse (14-1)’s Charlie Deutsch and Venetia Williams took third place.
Earlier, 2023 champion hurdler Constitution Hill made a welcome return to form with a third victory in the Christmas Hurdle.
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