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Powell hoping Banbridge can rise to the occasion

BanbridgeBanbridge
© Photo Healy Racing

Brendan Powell, assistant trainer to Joseph O'Brien, is hoping that Banbridge can rise to the occasion as he goes in search of Grade 1 glory in the Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse.

The six-year-old disappointed on his only previous try at the highest level, that coming in the Sefton Novices' Hurdle at Aintree in April.

Since mightily impressive into two starts over the larger obstacles, the Ronnie Bartlett owned chestnut will now need to take another step forward, in against 10 high-class rivals.

"This is going to test him but he's come out of Cheltenham great, he's moving great and working well. He looks fantastic," Powell said.

"The ground is going to be in his favour and I think the two and a half will be right up his street.

"What I like about him is he is quick over (a fence) and he is quick when he lands.

"He has got a good cruising speed, he is quick enough for two (miles) and he stays there. Please God he will be bang there."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham