Exeter Racecourse hosted an engaging afternoon of National Hunt racing on Sunday, March 22, with a six-race card that combined stamina-testing chases, competitive handicaps, and promising young talent. The meeting offered a balanced mix of established performers and emerging contenders, producing a series of noteworthy performances across varying distances and classes.
The afternoon began with the 2:32 PM Guildhall Shopping Celebrating 5 Decades Maiden Hurdle Race (Class 4) over 2m 5f 148y. It was Kildinan Prince (IRE) who opened the card in style, delivering a polished performance under Harry Cobden. The gelding showed steady improvement throughout the race, travelling strongly before asserting his dominance in the closing stages. It marked a significant breakthrough victory, suggesting he could develop into a useful hurdler over middle distances.
The feature stamina test of the day came at 3:02 PM with the Guildhall Shopping Exeter 50th Anniversary Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3) over an extended 3m 7f 33y. In a race that demanded both endurance and precise jumping, Rivers Corner produced a determined effort under Brendan Powell. The pair handled the demanding trip well, staying on strongly in the latter stages to outlast rivals. It was a performance full of grit and resilience, highlighting the horse’s stamina credentials in long-distance chases.
At 3:37 PM, the Barry Johnson Memorial Mares’ Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5) over 3m 104y saw Sweet Nightingale claim a well-earned victory. Ridden by Callum Pritchard, the mare produced a composed and consistent round of jumping. She gradually moved into contention before taking control in the closing stages, showcasing both stamina and tactical awareness. The win marked a notable success in the Queen Boudicca Mares’ Chase Series qualifier.
The 4:12 PM Guildhall Exeter, Shop, Eat, Play EBF Junior ‘National Hunt’ Hurdle Race (Class 4) over 2m 172y highlighted emerging young talent. Dakota Star impressed with a confident performance, again ridden by Callum Pritchard, who secured a quick double on the card. The combination showed good rhythm and composure, with the horse responding well when asked for an effort, suggesting a bright future in the junior ranks.
Momentum continued for Pritchard in the 4:47 PM Guildhall Exeter Style, Flavour, Fun Handicap Hurdle Race (Class 4) over 2m 7f 36y. Kayf Dancer delivered a strong staying performance to provide the jockey with a remarkable treble. The gelding was ridden patiently before making a decisive move in the latter stages, staying on powerfully to secure victory. It was a ride that demonstrated timing and race awareness, capping an excellent day for the jockey.
The card concluded with the 5:22 PM Greendale Farm Shop Point-to-Point Bumper Maiden National Hunt Flat Race (Class 5) over 2m 172y. In this amateur jockeys’ contest, Call Me Ken (IRE) emerged victorious under Miss Carys Morris. The winner showed promise and composure, travelling smoothly throughout before asserting late on. It was an encouraging display from a horse likely to progress further in bumper company.
Overall, the Exeter meeting provided a compelling day of racing, with standout performances from both horses and riders. Callum Pritchard stole the spotlight with a treble, while endurance and determination were key themes across the longer-distance contests. The variety of races ensured an entertaining and competitive afternoon, reinforcing Exeter’s reputation as a venue for quality National Hunt racing.
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.