Medermit takes Sandown Grade 1

Medermit held Captain Chris in the Grade 1 totepool Challengers Novices' Chase at Sandown.

Medermit, the 5-2 favourite, took advantage of a mistake two out by Mr Gardner to take a definite lead.

However, the gallant Captain Chris challenged up the hill and was only half a length down at the line. Mr Gardner was seven lengths away in third.

Trainer Alan King said: "Choc (Thornton) said he got there too soon and he just idled. You've got to be able to get the trip for the Arkle and this was the ideal preparation, but I'm not committing him to anything at the moment.

"I don't want to say something and change my mind but I'm very happy - I haven't won a Grade One for about two years, after all."

Sky Bet cut Medermit to 6-1 from 10-1 for both the Arkle and the Jewson Novices' Chases.