Hi all,
Inside today’s main piece I’m previewing Exeter’s Haldon Gold Cup.
Exeter
Exeter stages its biggest race of the season, the Bet MGM Haldon Gold Cup (2.25). There’s £59,440 on offer to the winner of the Haldon Gold Cup and it’s a good early season prize to land.
The “Future Stars” Silver Bowl Novices' Chase (1:50) which has been won by some useful novices in recent years such as Stay Away Fay, Thyme Hill, Threeunderthrufive and Native River. This year’s race promised as to be informative as ever at the five day stage. However, drying conditions mean just three runners have been declared. The NH winter season is ready to kick on, but we desperately need rain.
ITV Racing will cover four races from Exeter on Haldon Gold Cup Day:
2:25 – Bet MGM Haldon Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 2) – 2m 1½f
Ten chasers entered initially, but only six made it to the final line-up on Wednesday. Among them, useful novice chaser JPR One who was installed ante post favourite for his seasonal debut, representing last year’s winning stable. JPR One won a Grade 2 at Lingfield in January before being outclassed in the Arkle at the Cheltenham Festival. Looks to have a good chance if handling the ground. Stablemate Scarface has had the benefit of a recent run and has winning form on good ground. Handicapped to go well with Harry Cobden booked.
Etalon won his first three handicap chases last season. Awkward at the start and never competitive in a Grade 1 at Aintree in April. He can win more races this season, but quick ground is a concern. Djelo was another to win his first three starts over fences last season. Could do better on his second season over fences. Good ground shouldn’t be an issue, and he goes well fresh. Big chance for a yard who had a big handicap winner on Saturday.
If you’d like my weekend selections for Exeter, plus races over the next 30 days including Cheltenham’s November Meeting, Haydock’s Betfair Chase, and Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup, you can find them here.
In tomorrow’s column, I’ll preview Saturday’s big race action.
Good luck with your Friday bets.
John