Jump racing returns to Exeter next Thursday

Jump racing returns to Exeter Racecourse next Thursday (Oct 10) and it's all systems go on Haldon Hill where exciting new initiatives, an increase in prize money, and the promise of some of the country’s most exciting novice horses coming under starters orders in prospect.

General manager Tim Darby said: “The increase in prize money, which is up over £110k for the final quarter year on year is fantastic news for Exeter and it means some of the more established stars of racing will come to the track, as well as the exciting novices. We have some great racedays lined up such as our new Devon Day on November 24 and our Student free-raceday, but for now the focus is on next Thursday, and the chance for everyone who pre-books to win a share in a racehorse trained by Jeremy Scott.”

Delicious goodies from Purely Devon Hampers will also be given to the owner of the winning horse of the day’s main race. “It’s a just a small token of our appreciation to the owners for running their horses at Exeter,” said Tim.

With Exeter’s reputation as a nurturing ground for top young horses, Tim is also keen that old retired racehorses should not be forgotten and with support from Brookridge Timber at Cullompton, a new stable has been erected in which a past star from the sport will be stabled during the meeting enabling racegoers to meet a former racehorse.

Next Thursday, Southwestern, a winner of some 24 point-to-points, three races under Rules, and a runner in the Christie’s Foxhunter Chase at the Chehtlenham Festival three times is set to attend. Now aged 14, Southwestern, one of the most popular point-to-pointers of his era, is successfully competing in affiliated events having been schooled for the job by Laura Scott, daughter of his trainer Jeremy.

The first of six races comes under orders at 2.20pm with Bathwick Tyres which stocks the largest range of tyres, alloy wheels, batteries and exhausts in the south-west, the sponsor of four of them. Other sponsors include Ilfracombe Food Services and Great Point Media Investments will take place. A beginners’ chase over three miles and a two miles one furlong novices hurdle could be the starting point for some decent young novices and concluding the card is a conditional jockeys’ handicap hurdle.

Tim Darby said: “It’s always a lovely time of year when we start racing again after our summer break. To add to the excitement, next week we have a very exciting announcement to make, which involves one of the most famous jump jockeys in the world.”