The unique Royal Artillery Gold Cup Chase takes place at Sandown Park on Friday, with the race restricted to horses that are owned or have been leased by those who are serving, or have served, in the Royal Artillery, writes Sarah-Jane Muirie.

This year looks set to be a fascinating contest with last year's winner, Back Nine, looking to repeat his success.

He narrowly beat the 2005 winner Whitenzo last year and is a regular runner at Sandown, giving him a great chance of a repeat victory.

Royal Artillery Chase pro James Snowden has trained three winners in the past five years and, having narrowly missed out last time, will have high hopes for his mount, the Paul Nicholls-trained Le Duc.

The nine-year-old was last seen at Cheltenham in December where he was sixth in the BGC Cross County Handicap Chase and looks to be the biggest threat in the field.

For more details call 01372 470047 or visit sandown.co.uk