led until 3 out, weakened quickly approaching next
chased leader until after 6th, weakend approaching 8th, tailed off when pulled up before 2 out
behind from 3rd, never dangerous after, tailed off approaching 2 out
held up, steady headway 6th, mistake 3 out, ridden to challenge 2 out, led approaching last, all out
held up, headway 7th, led just after 3 out, headed and mistake last, stayed on flat
in touch, went 2nd after 6th, led briefly 3 out, weakening when jumped slowly 2 out
Exodous can make the most of the weight that he receives here in a bid to get recent losses back, with Chanticlier and Derrintogher Yank seen as the main dangers. Jim Old's charge, an Argentine-bred, responded well after an operation to open his account over hurdles on fast ground at Uttoxeter in August. On his next start here 11 days ago, Exodous failed to stay three miles and was beaten into second by the other market leader, Petite Margot. The drop back in distance here is just what he needs, and he should prove hard to beat. Chanticlier was also a beaten favourite last time, but that was back in May when he failed to fulfil promise after a similar break, and he may be best watched. With Wonder Weasel no doubt having this as a pipe-opener for his usual fencing campaign, a bigger danger to the selection may be Derrintogher Yank. He too has been absent for some time, but is lightly raced. Although his season too will extend to fences shortly, he has won three times over timber and if fit enough can play a part in proceedings. However, with plenty going for him, Exodous can lead them home.
