Neil Morrice brings you all of his best bets and tips for Sunday’s racing coming your way from Exeter and Southwell .
EXETER
Race 2: No7 – KARL PHILIPPE
Trainer: Fergal O’Brien – Jockey: Paddy Brennan
Although he forfeited his unbeaten record when beaten in a photo by Dock Road over course and distance before Christmas, KARL PHILIPPE did nothing wrong and can get his career back on track by outpointing Gladiateur Allen in this maiden hurdle. He’s one of the nicest prospects in his stable and destined for better things.
Race 3: No9 – ELYSIAN FLAME
Trainer: Mick Easterby – Jockey: Paddy Brennan
This can be a case of third time lucky for ELYSIAN FLAME following a couple of solid earning runs at Leicester and Kelso. The gelding is a very rare runner here for his veteran trainer and the tip should be taken. It’s a competitive affair, but I doubt the selection has made the 600-mile round trip from North Yorkshire simply for the goodness of his health.
Race 4: No11 – BRIANSTORM (Each Way)
Trainer: Venetia Williams – Jockey: Charlie Deutsch
BRIANSTORM finds himself in a much more competitive race than that which fell to the elements last week but remains an interesting proposition in this novices’ limited handicap chase. He returns from a second wind operation for a stable whose horses love arduous conditions and could step up to the plate to belie a 22-month absence.
Race 5: No8 – MUCKAMORE
Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies – Jockey: Sam Twiston-Davies
MUCKAMORE is on a recovery mission after an underwhelming first foray over fences at Market Rasen. The former Irish point winner failed to endorse the good impression shown in three races over hurdles last season and the jury is out as to why. He’s a horse that is worth sticking with through the winter and should be afforded another chance.
SOUTHWELL
Race 2: No1 – RAVENSCAR
Trainer: Phil Kirby – Jockey: Ben Curtis
After showing a liking for this surface on a belated Fibresand debut last week, RAVENSCAR can confirm her superiority over Severus Alexander and go back-to-back for her bang-in form local stable. She looked good value for her margin of victory and can defy a 5lb penalty.
Race 6: No9 – TELLMEYOURSTORY (Nap)
Trainer: Mark Johnston – Jockey: Joe Fanning
The Johnston yard is enjoying a bountiful New Year with its all-weather team and TELLMEYOURSTORY can add to its laurels by taking out this maiden. The daughter of Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Karakontie finished second on debut at Lingfield and can make the most of her sex allowance from Action Hero.
