Wind, rain and winners at Exeter
Driving rain and gusting wind at Exeter today showed exactly why jockeys are among the bravest men in the land. Conditions on Haldon Hill were as bleak as they come, yet the racing was first-rate, with outstanding talent on display, packed bars full of racegoers, and new owners celebrating their first experience of owning a winning racehorse.
The day began in the best possible way for the Hoof & Hustle Go Racing Syndicate. Formed just three weeks ago by social media entrepreneur Zach Vaughan, their seven-year-old Hardy Buck was their first ever runner.
“We have six members and hopefully we can keep this up!” laughed Vaughan, who specialises in helping young jockeys build their profiles. “I wanted to help up-and-coming trainers in the same way, and I think Max could be that guy. I messaged him and asked if he had a horse, and he said he had the perfect one – Hardy Buck. Max trains where Milton Harris used to be based. It’s a fabulous yard with great facilities.”
Garth and Anne Broom, who race under their Brocade Racing banner, were delighted to see Gentleman Toboot continue his progress with a win in the JCB Fastrac British Stallion Studs EBF ‘National Hunt’ Novices' Hurdle. It was a competitive contest with a 16-runner field, and the winner made all the running, looking as though he could stay even further.
Mirabad was considered an outside chance in the four-runner beginners’ chase, but with the magic touch of Dan Skelton, the six-year-old stuck on well to hold off favourite Joyeuse under rising star Tristan Durrell.
Part-owner Simon Such, who has also owned horses such as The New One, The Newest One and Blaklion, said:
“Dr Richard Newland bought him from France, where he ran on the flat. We had some lovely success hurdling before going to Dan’s. He ran in the Greatwood Hurdle, but he pulled like a beast and had no respect for the hurdles, so we decided to try a fence to get him to slow down. He’s extremely enthusiastic, so we put the headgear on hoping it would help, and it seems to have worked. We’re delighted!”
Expectations were low beforehand, with the sole purpose of giving the gelding a good, confidence-boosting round. “I said to Tristan ‘Put a smile on your face and enjoy yourself.’ That was really great!”
U Can’t Be Serious was a plucky winner of the JCB Handicap Chase, holding off the challenge of Donnacha by half a length. The six-year-old was following up his course success in November.
Zainy Champ caused a surprise in the JCB Hydradig Novices' Handicap Hurdle, signalling that trainer Jeremy Scott is firmly back in form.
Art Decco brought trainer Robert Walford in from the cold after a lean spell, storming home in the Hawke Barn Wedding & Special Events Handicap Chase (GBB Race). Ridden by Harry Kimber, the nine-year-old was nudged to the front turning into the home straight and stayed on strongly to win by nine lengths.
“He loves Exeter and he stays all day. He’s one of the loveliest horses we’ve ever trained. My kids can ride him. He’s an absolute pleasure. We are very lucky to have him,” said Walford.
Nicky Martin trains a tiny string of just nine or so horses on Exmoor, but she is a trainer of serious talent. Analithea highlighted her ability when she led home a decent field in the concluding bumper. She was purchased from France via bloodstock agent Ed Patridge, who is married to former Grade One-winning jockey Lizzy Kelly.
Pictured: The Dan Skelton trained Mirabad wins the beginners' chase with Tristan Durrell in the saddle. Credit: Francesca Alltoft.
