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Art could prove an Exeter masterpiece
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Conditions should play to stayer's strengths
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Rawy one to consider at Meydan
At the time of writing, the West Country could see plenty of rain through the card and a deterioration of conditions could play to the strengths of Art Decco who bids to enhance a healthy track record in this marathon event.
Three course starts have yielded figures of 721 and that comeback 40 days ago at Fontwell should have helped to blow away any cobwebs as his record when absent for more than seven months stands at 0-4.
In contrast, he has enjoyed a great deal of success when returned to action between 29 and 44 days with a record of four wins from five starts in the hands of Harry Kimber and this race fits nicely into that metric.
For a horse that likes to race prominently and try and dominate, patient tactics at Fontwell were never likely to suit the selection who was only beaten a neck in this race 12 months ago and is fancied to go one better under her regular rider.
Back Art Deco to Win 15:05 Exeter
Rest assured, I won't be tipping up too many Middle Eastern horses this winter, but there could be some merit in supporting Rawy in this seven-furlong handicap.
Historically, the son of Frosted often needs his first run off a break with figures on his seasonal comeback reading 5955 with an aggregate loss across those defeats of 40 lengths.
That was certainly the case in a strongly-run Jebel Ali handicap where, after travelling powerfully throughout, he hit the wall at the furlong marker and faded tamely into fifth.
A combination of a lack of fitness along with the stiff climb to the line seem to take its toll that day, and a return to today's conditions may see his challenge last a little longer.
The form of that event has worked out pretty well, with the third-home Mountbatten winning his next start, while winner Elraaed has finished runner-up along with those in the backwash, Street Mood and Made In Dubai who finished well in arrears.
Back Rawy, E/W, in 15:50 Meydan