Tomorrow’s meeting at Exeter is the eagerly awaited PricedUp Best Mate Chase Day, and although the racecourse is running an all-hurdle card, it still very much celebrates the legacy of the three-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Best Mate. His jockey Jim Culloty will be at Exeter and from 1pm over the public address system he’ll be recalling all their greatest moments together.

Fans will recall the much-loved horse began his phenomenal chasing career on Haldon Hill, giving this meeting special significance for any jumps enthusiast.

Adding to the appeal, Exeter Racecourse is running a fantastic offer: racegoers can bring a friend for free. This offer applies to pre-booked tickets only, presenting a wonderful opportunity to experience a competitive card and the lively atmosphere that is sure to be the order of the day as jumping makes his long-awaited return to Devon’s premier racecourse.

General manager Jack Parkinson said: “We are all systems go to get the new season underway at Exeter after the disappointment of having to cancel our first meeting. Our rain dances have worked and after a proper dose of the wet stuff over the past couple of days we are delighted to get going, albeit with an all-hurdles card. It will be fabulous to welcome back everyone to Exeter. It’s such a great way to have a day out, the race card is always an ice breaker, helping to strike up conversations if people race solo, and above all we can’t wait to see all the wonderful horses.”

Feature race of the day is the Download the PricedUp App Handicap Hurdle. I’m A Starman, trained by Mark Rimmell, carries the class to beat his rivals and has the services of top jockey Harry Cobden. A return to the sort of form that saw him placed highly in better races makes him a standout choice, with Ballintubber Boy coming to Exeter with some strong form under his girth including taking the runner-up spot at Hereford eight days ago.

The opening PricedUp Maiden Hurdle looks likely to fall to Oakley. Evan Williams is sending him out after a recent spin on the flat, and his prior form gives him the edge in ability. Anthony Honeyball, who has enjoyed a fine summer jumps season, saddles Oakley’s Way who looks to be the main danger if returning from a break ready to fire on all cylinders.

The Paul Ferguson’s Jumpers To Follow Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle looks a tight contest and a chance for Guilaume to score. He’s trained by Donald McCain and makes the long trip down to Devon from his Cheshire stables. McCain’s stable is enjoying a consistent run of form and this runner is well placed in the weights. He could continue to progress if the long journey hasn’t taken its toll.

Miss Tiara looks the preference in the Download the PricedUp App Mares’ Maiden Hurdle. She’s been carefully campaigned by her ever-popular trainer Jeremy Scott – the standout star in the latest ITV series Champions Full Gallop following his brilliant campaigning of Golden Ace – and her breeding suggests this middle-distance trip over hurdles should suit her perfectly. Lorcan Williams takes the ride.

The Mrs Patricia Gardner Memorial Hurdle is a test of stamina that could suit the in-form Unspeakable. Trained by Christian Williams, he secured a recent victory at Hereford and carries a win penalty but looks capable of dealing with the rise in grade given he appears in good heart at the moment.

In the Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, Joe Tizzard, a huge supporter of Exeter, saddles Ugo Bingo whose ability will give him an outstanding chance and he runs well fresh.

A National Hunt Flat Race concludes the card and eagle-eyed jumps lovers will be keeping a close eye on how the race unfolds, as it is often an indicator of easy pickings later in the season. Power Quest, trained by Archie Watson, is a three-year-old who should possess the speed and precocity needed to score on his debut, while La Luna Artista is trained by Jane Williams at South Milton, and anything she handles demands respect.

The first of seven races is off at 1.40pm. Gates open at 12.10pm and a free bus service leaves Exeter St Davids at 12:10am and returns 17:35pm.