EXETER Racecourse

A practical guide to EXETER Racecourse, including its track layout, jumping test and the courses most likely to provide useful form clues.

About EXETER Racecourse

Exeter racecourse is set in a stunning location in Devon, and is very progressive track which is trying to raise the quality of the racing which it offers. Its a long trip to Exeter from most places in the UK, however its well worth the effort as Exeter racecourse is excellent.

Key Characteristics

Exeter do not have any system to artificially water, and as a consequence the going can get very fast in the summer. The course is a large two miles in circumference, and is very undulating. It can take a lot of getting particularly in heavy ground and suits the large chasing/galloping type of horse. The home straight is half a mile and uphill all the way, and therefore very testing.

Course Summary

Track: Undulating Galloping right handed track with a stiff finish.

Fences: Quite difficult.

Interesting Facts

Standing atop the Haldon Hills at around 260m above sea level, Exeter is the highest racecourse in the country.
The course traces its roots back to the 17th century, one of several tracks associated with King Charles II's enthusiasm for horse racing.
In 1833, the racecourse was the site of the last duel ever fought in Devon, between a local doctor and a judge.
Locally known as Haldon Racecourse, it carried the name Devon and Exeter Racecourse until it was renamed Exeter Racecourse in the 1990s.
AP McCoy rode his first-ever winner in Britain at Exeter in 1994, aboard a horse called Chickabiddy.
Champion chaser Best Mate died at Exeter in 2005 after suffering a heart attack during the Haldon Gold Cup.
The track's best-known race today is the Haldon Gold Cup, held every November.
In 2011, one lucky punter left Exeter with £1.45m from a £2 Tote bet.
Exeter's home straight is half a mile long and uphill the whole way, making it one of the most testing finishes in National Hunt racing.
Despite being right-handed, the course has only two real bends per circuit, which reduces the disadvantage for horses that don't relish a tight turn.

Similar Courses

Form from the following courses may be particularly relevant when assessing runners at EXETER:

Towcester
Leicester
Carlisle