Timeform UK SmartPlays: Tuesday January 14

We open proceedings with a handicap chase run over an extended 17 furlongs (12:55) in which a number merit consideration. Both Ray Diamond and Royal Riviera are in decent nick at present, but preference goes to Kingcora who was a useful hurdler in France.  Although he struggled to reproduce the level of that form over timber, he shaped better than the bare result suggested when fifth on his chasing debut at Ludlow last month, and but for a mistake five out may well have played a hand in the finish. He looks the type to improve now in the chasing game and is work taking a chance on here. 

Its another handicap chase under consideration next, this time over three miles (14:35) in which Barton Gift is capable of bouncing back from Boxing Day effort at Towcester. He turned in some creditable efforts over hurdles and finished fifth on his first two starts over fences, catching the eye at Leicester on the second of those occasions. He was a little laboured on his last start but with first time blinkers reached for today, it would be no surprise to see him put in a much improved performance here. There are dangers and Roseneath is likely to prove popular with McCoy booked, but the selection has ability and is capable of surprising a few.
 
NON-RUNNER
Our final bet of the day comes in the concluding handicap hurdle over an extended 21 furlongs (16:10) which looks a competitive race for the grade. There are no less than five last time out winners vying for the pot, and the best of those looks to be recent Warwick scorer Dungeness. He built on the promise of his Uttoxeter run to make all on that occasion and although this is a quick turnaround under a penalty, his in-form handler excels with these types and he should go in again. Cash Injection and Catcher Star head the list of dangers. 

Timeform UK SmartPlays
All at Exeter

Back Kingcora @ 6.411/2 in the 12:55
Back Barton Gift @ 6.25/1 in the 14:35 
Back Dungeness @ 3.211/5 in the 16:10 NR