Exeter today

the top N.H. trainers are waking up from their summer slumbers and almost all the leading southern stables have runners today at Exeter. Leading the way is champion trainer Paul Nicholls, who has 3 entries, and the two ridden by Ruby Walsh are the most interesting runners today. Rebel du Maquis makes his British debut in the novice hurdle sat 15.40; he was runner-up three times in France last spring, including at Auteuil, but it remains to be seen how he will cope with British tracks and much faster going. Tataniano has only 4 opponents in the beginners chase over an extended 2 miles at 6.10 and will be at long odds-on. He is expected to be a leading fancy for the Arkle, in which case he must win this; on hurdles form, including a 21 lengths win at Cheltenham´s April meeting, he is far superior to today´s opponents. The same applies to Philip Hobbs´ Ballydub (Richard Johnson), who runs in the beginners chase over 3 miles at 17.10. He was last seen at the Cheltenham festival, and although well beaten there, is head and shoulders above his 3 opponents on hurdles form. The other races look quite tricky, but we would not be surprised to see Wujood (Laura Young/ Andrew Glassonbury) run well in the handicap hurdle at 16.40; an easy winner over this CD 2 weeks ago, he is moving up in grade but could have a fitness advantage.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Oamaru Stone - Lucky Dancer - Ballyvesey
2. Race: Rebel Du Maquis - Superius - Robo
3. Race: Tataniano - Award Winner - Hereweareagain
4. Race: Referent - Winterwood - Sagalyrique
5. Race: Ballydub - Plane Painter - Kilvergan Boy
6. Race: I`M A Legend - Free World - Young Albert
7. Race: Tetlami - Skeemah - Karasenir