Reigning Irish Jump champion Paul Townend is set to make his first appearance at Exeter Racecourse this Friday, February 20th, during the inaugural Community Raceday. The 35-year-old, a six-time champion in Ireland over the last seven seasons, will saddle Fun Fun Fun in the Listed Mares’ Chase at 3.14pm, marking a fresh chapter in an already illustrious career.
Townend, who has ridden 38 winners at the Cheltenham Festival—more than any other current jockey—and claimed four victories in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, brings experience and flair to the seven-race card. His triumph in the 2024 Randox Grand National aboard I Am Maximus remains one of the standout moments of recent Jump racing history. On Friday, he will partner Fun Fun Fun in the familiar double green silks of Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, representing the formidable Willie Mullins yard.
“It will be a new experience for me,” Townend admitted ahead of his Exeter debut. “I’ve seen plenty of racing from Exeter, but I’ve never been there, so it’s nice to go there and try something else. Hopefully, we are going there with a big chance. It’s always nice to go anywhere with a big chance and I am looking forward to it.”
Townend has consulted with fellow riders familiar with Exeter, including Johnny Burke and Ruby Walsh, to get an insight into the track’s subtleties. “I’ll get there nice and early and have a walk around the course. We were watching Exeter closely earlier in the year when Lulamba won there, and I’ve seen videos of Kauto Star racing there. It looks a good place to ride,” he explained.
Fun Fun Fun has prior form at Exeter, having tasted victory over hurdles and experience over fences, including a notable win for Townend at Perth last year. “On ratings, it looks a good opportunity for her and definitely one I couldn’t pass up,” he added.
Friday’s card kicks off at 2.14pm and features seven races, including the marathon Nick Ansell Devon National Handicap Chase at 2.45pm, where Art Decco bids for back-to-back victories.
The day also celebrates local community heroes. Donna Cook of Chudleigh has been named the inaugural Community Champion in recognition of her tireless charitable work. As Chair of Cancer Lifeline South West, Donna has organised fundraisers, coached local sports, and volunteered in numerous community projects, earning admiration across Devon for her generosity and energy.
Exeter Racecourse will thus offer both top-level racing and a celebration of local spirit, combining sport and community in a distinctive way.
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