Monkerhostin claims Sandown win

Monkerhostin sprang a 25-1 surprise at Sandown

Veteran chaser Monkerhostin upset the odds to claim a surprise victory at 25-1 in the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown.

Richard Johnson guided the 11-year-old into the lead at the final fence and he galloped up the hill to beat Royal Auclair by two-and-a-half lengths.

Hoo La Baloo held off 9-2 favourite Iris de Balme, winner of the Scottish National, to claim third.

It was the first victory for Monkerhostin, trained by Phillip Hobbs, since November 2005.

Without A Doubt and D'Argent had set the early pace with the former still leading the pack with three fences to go.

You certainly couldn't retire him after that Sarah Hobbs

However, the pack was closing in and Monkerhostin was building up a good head of steam, so much so, that once he hit he was not to be denied the win.

Sarah Hobbs, wife of the winning trainer, hinted that the win means Monkerhostin could yet extend his racing career.

"This fellow had to win today as Philip has been in Punchestown," she said.

"He has been very consistent, but didn't run very well at Cheltenham, so we had him scoped and tested.

"He still retains plenty of enthusiasm and you certainly couldn't retire him after that."