Banbridge’s participation within the King George got here after a dialogue in Could between O’Brien, the son of champion Flat coach Aidan, and the horse’s proprietor Ronnie Bartlett following victory within the Champion Chase at Punchestown.
However after Il Est Francais, skilled in France by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, had constructed up a lead of about 10 lengths, victory for any of the chasing pack, together with Banbridge, appeared unlikely.
“I believed Il Est Francais was gone, turning for house,” O’Brien advised ITV Racing.
“I grew up watching races like this, so to have a runner is particular and to win a race like that is dream stuff.”
Townend added: “I felt I may catch Il Est Francais. I believed it was on, going to the second final.
“Stamina was a query mark, that is why I rode him like I did.”
O’Brien was non-committal concerning the eight-year-old’s plans for the remainder of the season and whether or not the Gold Cup or the Ryanair Chase could be his Cheltenham Pageant goal.
