Sixmilebridge sparkles in Scilly Isles success
Fergal O'Brien returned to the top table on Saturday as Sixmilebridge jumped his rivals into submission in the Grade One Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown Park with Kielan Woods doing the steering
Saturday 31 January 2026 16:23, UK
Sixmilebridge maintained his flawless chasing record to claim the Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown for Fergal O’Brien.
The seven-year-old was partnered by Kielan Woods as a 6-1 shot, and in a small field the complexion of the Grade One changed when Kitzbuhel, Willie Mullins' 10-11 favourite, made an error early on and unshipped Paul Townend.
That left three contenders standing and having made all of the running, it was Sixmilebridge who strolled home to claim a decisive five-length triumph from Kala Conti having jumped soundly throughout.
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"I'm absolutely delighted - it was a fantastic run and a fantastic ride," said O'Brien.
"I'm so proud of the horse today, he did everything we hoped we could do.
"I'm delighted for the Megsons [owners] as that's their first Grade One. They've put a lot into racing with their horses and sponsorships over the years so I'm thrilled we could win them a Grade One.
"His jumping today was good but I actually think he jumped a bit better at Cheltenham last time so that's something we can work on - but I'm still over the moon."
Paddy Power cut Sixmilebridge to 12-1 from 20s for the three-mile Brown Advisory Novices' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, while he is also entered for the Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices' Chase over two miles.
O'Brien added: "We'll enjoy today, he's in a few races at Cheltenham and we've got all bases covered so we'll see how we get on."
