Chipping Norton trainer Charlie Longsdon enjoyed a timely boost ahead of the Cheltenham Festival by sending out Loose Chips to land the Grand Military Gold Cup at Sandown yesterday.
The nine-year-old was given a never-say-die ride by Lance Bombardier Sally Randell, who was winning the prestigious prize for the third time.
The 9-2 chance battled bravely up the hill to get the better of Merrion Square by a neck in the three-mile chase.
Randell, who was successful previously on Oakfield Legend back in 2009 and Bradley 12 months ago, immediately announced it would be her final ride as she prepares to take over the training licence from Swindon-based handler Andy Turnell.
She said: “I’ve been really lucky to ride two great horses over the past two years.
“He gave me such a great feeling and battled all the way to the line.”
Longsdon is set to field a team of around six runners at the Festival, including Pendra, Azure Fly and Killala Quay.
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