Ex Patriot was attracting support soon after betting began on the Paddy Power Handicap Chase at Cheltenham and there is a lot to like about Ellmarie Holden’s runner
It is a new year at Cheltenham racecourse but some things will never change at the home of jump racing, among them the respect that must be given to well-backed Irish raiders. Ex Patriot (2.00) was attracting support soon after betting began on today’s Paddy Power Handicap Chase and there is a lot to like about Ellmarie Holden’s runner.
This is only his second chance in a handicap chase and he won the first, comfortably beating 10 rivals at Gowran in March. He was well treated at the weights that day but he still looks on a fair mark, judging by two efforts in quality novice contests in November. He did not get home on his last visit here, in the Cleeve, but this should be much less of a stamina test.
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Southwell 12.10 Jazz Hands 12.45 Xian Express 1.20 Moonraker 1.55 Power Link 2.30 Mr Strutter 3.05 Angel Lane 3.40 Zapper Cass
Cheltenham 12.15 Welsh Saint 12.50 Another Venture 1.25 Champ 2.00 Ex Patriot (nap) 2.35 Who’s My Jockey (nb) 3.10 Janika 3.50 Genola
Catterick 11.55 Deise Aba 12.25 Tango Boy 1.00 Zabeel Star 1.35 King’s Coinage 2.10 Pull Green 2.45 Reverant Cust 3.20 Emma Beag
Musselburgh 12.30 Never Do Nothing 1.05 Mighty Thunder 1.40 Cracking Destiny 2.15 Ashington 2.50 Not The Chablis 3.25 Benny’s Secret
Fakenham 12.05 Skeaping 12.35 Silent Steps 1.10 Midnightreflection 1.45 Be My Sea 2.20 Megabost 2.55 Hats Off To Larry 3.30 Whenitcomestoit
Exeter 12.40 Broughtons Rhythm 1.15 Mr Clarkson 1.50 Pink Legend
2.25 Mr Caffrey 3.00 Bullionaire 3.35 King Roland 4.05 Hooligan