The Unibet Middle Distance Series Veterans’ Handicap Chase at Exeter brings together a field of nine seasoned chasers over 2m3½f on good to soft ground. These races often come down to two simple factors: who still has the engine and who jumps cleanly under pressure.
A few in this line-up have plenty of miles on the clock and arrive with patchy recent form, which puts the focus firmly on the runners who are either still competitive from their current marks or showing solid recent efforts.
Genois sets the recent form standard
Genois arrives in the best current form in the field. He won a competitive handicap chase at Wetherby in December and followed that up with a solid second over the same course last time. Importantly, his jumping – once a weak point – has looked far more assured this season.
Running here from a mark of 121, he appears fairly treated and this slightly shorter trip should still suit given how strongly he finished at Wetherby. If the race is run at an honest pace, he looks the one most likely to finish strongest.
Time To Bite brings course form
Time To Bite commands respect after a productive spell over fences, winning several races last season including over this course and distance. His style of racing near the front tends to work well at Exeter, where rhythm and accurate jumping are crucial.
The main question is fitness after a 136-day break. If returning in the same form, his mark of 122 still leaves him competitive and he could take catching if allowed to dictate the pace.
Can You Call capable if bouncing back
Can You Call won a veterans’ chase at Cheltenham earlier in the winter and that piece of form gives him a clear chance here. However, he ran poorly when last seen at Sandown and needs to show that effort was an anomaly.
If he returns to his Cheltenham level, he has enough ability to get involved.
Others with questions
Gunsight Ridge carries top weight and has not looked the same horse this season, while Outlaw Peter and Neon Moon both have ability but come with reliability concerns. Numitor and Embittered would need significant improvement on recent efforts.
Verdict
This looks like a race where recent form and a workable handicap mark should count for plenty. Genois fits that profile best and arrives with momentum on his side.
Selection: Genois
Main danger: Time To Bite
Each-way shout: Can You Call