Chipping Norton trainer Charlie Longsdon praised horse and rider after Sally Randell ended her riding career in a blaze of glory by securing a third Grand Military Gold Cup at Sandown with a hard-fought victory aboard Loose Chips.

The 30-year-old amateur, who was successful previously in the prestigious three-mile chase on Oakfield Legend back in 2009 and Bradley 12 months ago, gave Longsdon’s nine-year-old a never-say-die ride to strike again.

Having sat in the front rank for most of the journey, it looked as though the pair were booked for second as Merrion Square, under Harry Wallace, moved into the lead at the penultimate fence.

However, the 9-2 shot rallied to the cause under Lance Bombardier Randell to battle back up the run-in and deny the 2013 winner by a neck.

Longsdon said: “Loose Chips produced a fantastic performance under an inspired ride. Sally out-rode all the boys.”

Randell 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: “He gave me such a great feeling and battled all the way up to the line.

“I had so much horse underneath I would have been shocked if he got beat.

“I know I’ve said it once or twice before, butThat is 100 per cent my last ride as my nerves are getting the better of me and it’s now time to pursue my training career.

“I’ve been taking my training modules at Newmarket and I plan to take over from Andy Turnell.

“They have taken me in like part of the family, and hopefully I can now enjoy supporting this race as a trainer.”

Longsdon was also on the mark with Wilberdragon at Market Rasen on Sunday.

Returning from a break, the five-year-old powered home by two lengths from Relic Rock under Noel Fehily in a novices’ hurdle over two miles and a furlong.

The trainer added: “He is clearly an improving horse with an exciting future who will give us lots of fun. over the coming years “This is only his educational season – he will be a lot better next season.”