_edited.png)
13:55 Exeter
One of the early season highlights at Exeter is the Haldon Gold Cup over a shade further than two miles.
Greaneteen last years winner has to concede over a stone to the rest of the field.
That includes the horse he touched of last season, Moonlighter. There’s every reason to believe Moonlighter could get revenge on Greaneteen this time around.
The ground will likely be softer than last season which will suit this Nick Williams runner and he also has a decent record fresh.
Surgery on his breathing apparatus could also be a positive.
However the above two rivals could face a formidable opponent in Hitman. This horse showed glimmers of being potentially top class last season without some things not going his way.
Once this horse is the finished article he’s clearly going to be useful. This race looks a good starting point for Hitman with an official rating of 151 highly unlikely to be the ceiling of his ability.
HITMAN (WIN)
14:55 Exeter
A competitive staying handicap chase.
Top Weight Enqarde showed plenty last season and still has plenty of improvement in him. He also has plenty of size so carrying weight shouldn’t be an issue, but it might be enough to stop him on seasonal debut on potentially testing ground.
Pappa Poutine is interesting. He looked a dour stayer over hurdles and these conditions should hold no fears. However despite finishing second in a point to point he is taking on some hardy campaigners here and will need to be slick with his jumping. Could be potentially well handicapped.
The selection is Run To Milan. He certainly doesn’t have many miles on the clock for a nine year old, maybe he’s not the most straightforward to train.
This course and distance winner still has plenty of leeway with his mark and if straight enough for his seasonal debut is worth risking.
RUN TO MILAN (WIN)
written by Matt Polley
Comentarios