Review of the day

Vibrato Voltat ran a reasonable race at Exeter this afternoon – but he was no match for impressive winner, Politologue.

As expected, there was plenty of pace in the race – courtesy of Gino Trail.

The softened ground meant that it became a bit of a stamina test – and that was too much for some of the runners.

Vibrato Voltat was settled at the rear of the field: but his jumping wasn’t particularly slick – and it soon became apparent that he was unlikely to win.

Having been outpaced down the back straight, he closed up round the home turn – but that was as good as it got and he ultimately finished a well beaten fifth.

I’m sure the run will have brought him on – and he will be worth considering next time, off what will probably be a reduced mark…

Politologue won very well – and it will be interesting to see whether he’s up to the Grade 1 test that he’s likely to face next time.
Taking on Altior at Sandown, will be a bit more of a challenge for him !

I was a bit disappointed by Barney Dwan in the next race on the card.

As I said this morning, I had high hopes for him this season – but he was no match for Ballyoptic today.

In fairness, the winner could be very good (he looks like a future National horse) – and Barney may have needed the run.

At least his jumping was sound – so I’ll reserve judgement on him, until he’s been out again…

Both Royal Palladium and Castarnie ran well in the handicap chase – and they filled the places behind Ask the Weatherman.

He was a difficult one to get a handle on – but was oddly impressive in victory and may well be the sort who will keep on improving through the season…

Finally, having looked likely to win approaching the second last, Arthur McBride ultimately finished unplaced in the handicap hurdle.

His jumping as very poor and in the soft ground, that ultimately cost him…

Both Rio Brave and Western Wave travelled really strongly – but neither lasted home.

The race ended up a severe stamina test and they just weren’t up to the challenge…

The next races of interest from a tipping perspective, are likely to take place on Saturday.

I’m keeping an eye on the markets for the big races – and if I find anything of interest, I’ll let you know.

Otherwise, expect to hear from me next, early evening on Friday…

TVB.