Exeter 14:15 - Cue Card
We kick off proceedings with the feature contest, the Grade 2 Haldon Gold Cup over an extended 17 furlongs and Cue Card sets a very clear standard on form. He won this event in 2012 and scored three times at the highest level in 2013, taking the Ascot and Ryanair Chases before putting in the highest-rated performance by any staying chaser last season when winning the Betfair Chase at Haydock 12 months ago. He hasn't been seen since going close in the King George on ground that was almost certainly softer than ideal, and although he is conceding weight all-round, his six rivals this afternoon are also returning from long absences and he's expected to show his class and begin this campaign with a win.
Exeter 14:45 - Carole's Destrier
It's a staying novice chase over three miles under consideration next and Carole's Destrier is the one to keep on side. He showed a useful level of form over hurdles and produced a highly promising first effort in this sphere when just touched off at Ffos Las last month. Given the remaining four runners are all having their first start over fences here, he looks capable of capitalising on that experience and recording his first win over the larger obstacles. If Carraig Mor can resume the thread which saw him bolt up at Uttoxeter on debut a year ago, he's always rated as the type to improve over fences and could be a massive danger. However, the selection is taken to put his last run to good use and bank us some profit.
Exeter 15:15 - Solstice Son
Our final bet of the day comes in the handicap chase over three miles once again and the step up to this trip could be the key to Solstice Son's potential over fences. He won three handicap hurdles over three miles plus and made a highly satisfactory start to this chasing career when a staying-on second over two-and-and-a-half miles at Fontwell last time. With that experience under his belt and the step back up to this trip sure to be in his favour, it would be no surprise to see him record his first victory in this sphere and he looks a decent price to do so. That said, it looks a competitive contest and Gallery Exhibition merits respect representing the in-form Kim Bailey Yard.
Recommended Bets:
All at Exeter
Back Cue Card @ 4.3100/30 in the 14:15
Back Carole's Destrier @ 3.259/4 in the 14:45
Back Solstice Son @ 6.05/1 in the 15:15
