Exeter Racecourse hosted an engaging seven-race National Hunt card on a bright afternoon, showcasing a mix of emerging talent and experienced stayers. The programme gradually built excitement toward the Listed Mares’ Steeple Chase, which proved a fitting climax with a commanding display. From quick-paced two-mile battles to the testing Devon National, the meeting highlighted courage, precision, and endurance over every fence.
The opener at 2:14pm, The Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4), saw Kapitein Kool (IRE) strike over 2m 1f 8y. Paul O’Brien delivered a measured ride, allowing the novice to travel comfortably before quickening clear on the run-in to set the tone for the afternoon.
Race 2, The Bev, Margaret & Iris Bond Memorial Novices’ Limited Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3), unfolded over 3m 127y and went the way of Kalhandrion (FR). Charlie Maggs guided his mount with patience, producing him at the right moment to land the spoils in a contest that tested both rhythm and stamina.
Race 3, The Mares’ Steeple Chase (Listed Race), brought the first major highlight of the card. Blue Las rose to the occasion over 3m 127y, jumping fluently throughout under Dylan Johnston. Travelling strongly before asserting on the run-in, she secured the Class 1 feature with authority and underlined her standing among the leading mares in this division.
The stamina examination intensified in Race 4, The Nick Ansell, Devon National Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3), run over an exacting 3m 7f 51y. Art Decco thrived under the searching conditions, with Harry Kimber delivering a well-judged ride in one of the day’s most demanding races. The extended trip ensured the Devon National lived up to its reputation as a true test of endurance.
In Race 5, The Ludo Sports & Live Lounge Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 4), Game Colours (IRE) proved strongest over 2m 1f 8y. Sam Twiston-Davies timed his challenge to perfection, guiding the mare home to secure qualification ambitions for the Challenger Mares’ Hurdle Series Final.
Race 6, The Guildhall Shopping, Exeter Handicap Hurdle (Class 5), over 2m 6f 11y, saw Bredon Hill Dart grind out victory under Ciaran O’Shea. It was a determined effort in testing conditions, with the winner staying on resolutely in the closing stages.
The finale at 5:20pm, The Greendale Farm Shop Open National Hunt Flat Race (Class 5), concluded proceedings over 2m 1f 8y. All About Trev (IRE) provided a fitting finish, with Lorcan Williams steering the runner home in confident style to cap an afternoon defined by resilience and quality across every division.
From novice hurdlers to Listed-level mares and marathon chasers, Exeter’s seven-race programme combined depth and drama, delivering a meeting that showcased both emerging talent and established staying prowess.
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