NAP
15:05 Exeter – Esprit du Large @ 15/8
Esprit du Large won twice over hurdles but he always appealed as the type to come into his own over fences and shaped well when finishing runner-up on his debut in that sphere at Carlisle last month.
Evan Williams’ horses weren’t fully firing when Esprit du Large made his reappearance but they are going better now and this step up in trip will suit based on his hurdling form and how well he finished his race at Carlisle. Coolanly was a useful hurdler and ought to come on for his reappearance in the Silver Trophy at Chepstow last month. He is respected on his chasing debut.
NEXT BEST
14:35 Exeter – De Name Evades Me @ 3/1
De Name Evades Me was largely progressive during a light hurdling campaign last season and ran with promise on his chasing debut at Chepstow last month. He is a point-to-point winner with the physique for chasing, so it’s no surprise he bettered his hurdling form at the first attempt when finishing third to a good prospect.
He was a dour stayer over hurdles, so this stiff track will suit, and he looks well treated as he steps into handicap company. Virginia Chick won a novice chase over course and distance last time and appeals as the biggest danger in the field.
EACH-WAY
12:55 Exeter – Norse Legend @ 13/2
Norse Legend didn’t take to chasing but could be a different proposition back over hurdles.
The eight-year-old’s most recent success was achieved over this course and distance under this 10lb conditional rider Harry Kimber, on this card last year.
He looks fairly handicapped off a 1lb lower mark.
The Colin Tizzard stable has hit good form of late and Norse Legend looks the best bet in a race which might not take a lot of winning. Mrs Miggins is the obvious danger. She won at Uttoxeter on her penultimate outing and then ran at least as well in defeat when finishing runner-up at the same course.
*Prices correct at time of publishing
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