Bob Olinger and Rachael Blackmore were gifted the Turners Novices Chase prize after the dramatic fall of rival Galopin Des Champs.
Paul Townend's mount appeared certain to win the first race of day three at Cheltenham Festival - St. Patrick's Day - but the 5-6 favourite came down at the last fence. Galopin Des Champs had a huge lead before jumping the obstacle – and the crowd cheered as he seemed to clear it well.
But in an instant he stumbled and slithered to the turf. It gave Bob Olinger and Blackmore, who reigned supreme with Honeysuckle on the first day in the Champion Hurdle, back-to-back Cheltenham wins after their Ballymore triumph of 2021.
Those who backed the market leader were disappointed, however fans were also pleased to see him walk away apparently unscathed from the tumble. Blackmore said: “It’s great to see Paul and Galopin are up and OK. It was their race to win.
"I don’t know what to say really, it’s fantastic to win, I’m delighted to win. I didn’t get into as good a rhythm as I thought I was going to. I thought that was my fate turning in, but that’s jumps racing.”
Paddy Power and Betfair halved Galopin Des Champs in price to 3-1 for next year's Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup. Sky Bet go 7-2 from 6-1, while Bob Olinger's price is unchanged at 12-1.
De Bromhead said: “You never want to win in those circumstances, but this game – always expect the unexpected and we’re delighted to win and we need to show a bit of joy as well.
"I was surprised to see him off the bridle so soon, obviously the other one is something else. I never thought I’d see another horse do that to him."
Racing TV is the only channel broadcasting every race live from the Cheltenham Festival, with two exclusive races each day. For a limited time, you can join Racing TV for half price for the Festival – just £12.49 a month for an entire year, with promo code "RTVCHELT50". Click this link for details
Pick up your Daily Mirror every day of the Cheltenham Festival for a FREE £2 shop bet with William Hill which can be used on any of the sporting action! 18 + Terms apply. See tomorrow's paper for your voucher.
