Strong Irish interest in Exeter Opener Eight of the 14 runners in the Bathwick Tyres Bideford 'National Hunt' Novices' Hurdle at Exeter this afternoon formerly raced in Ireland. Westren Warrior, making his debut for the Dr. Richard Newland yard, won a Point-To-Point and Sligo Maiden Hurdle when in the care of Aidan Howard earlier this year. All Kings, Walking In The Air, Pawn Star and Monsieur Murphy also competed between the flags in Irish Point-to-Points. Gala Ball, Minellacelebration and the former Willie Mullins trained Contempt of Court raced in Bumpers prior to relocating across the Irish Sea. The form of Gala Ball's most recent run in April, a third placing in a Tramore Bumper when trained by Timmy Hyde has worked out particularly well. The winner, second, fourth, sixth, seventh and eighth have all subsequently won Maiden Hurdles.
