Newland excited over Theo prospects

Trainer Richard Newland is hopeful his progressive young chaser Theo can make a bold show in today’s Bwin.com Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter.

The eight-year-old finished fifth to Frodon – beaten less than 10 lengths – in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree last month – his first attempt in Graded company – following two wins at Worcester.

“He has come out of his last race well. I’m excited about running him,” said Newland. “He’s in the big-boy league now, so he is obviously getting weight. I think this trip will suit him better than the trip he was over last time at Aintree, which he didn’t quite seem to get

Optimistic: Richard Newland believes Theo has plenty going for him at Exeter

home on. I think it’s a nice race and a nice, small field.

“Quick ground suits him, so we’re a bit lucky there.”

Paul Nicholls seeks to win the race for the seventh time and runs both Diego Du Charmil and San Benedeto.

Zoffany Bay could make a swift return to action having won easily at Plumpton yesterday. He is declared to run in the second race at Exeter (1.35) and connections are considering taking up the engagement. Sam Stronge, assistant to his wife, Ali, said: “He was quite professional the way he did it. I put him in at Exeter just in case something silly happened at the first hurdle, but we might have to consider it as the ground is still quick there.”