Taunton Racecourse: H on H's tips for Thursday's racing

I was very taken by The Jukebox Man, who jumped for fun and gained an entry in my ‘Little Black Book’ for the rest of the season.

Closer to home, I am delighted to report that Taunton has attracted 63 runners across its seven-race card this Thursday.

Even more intriguing is that ‘Shark’ Hanlon is sending six runners over from Ireland.

So, for the first time this season, let’s see if we can find a winner or two…

The meeting starts at 12.35 with the South West Rail Solutions Novices' Hurdle.

Seven go to post with Miss Altea Blue setting the standard on paper.

She will be prominent and is running for the second time after a wind operation, which is an angle I like.

She should get the Nicholls/Cobden bandwagon rolling early.

Next up is the Liz Bishop Duntish Stud Memorial Hurdle.

Iris Des Issards carries top weight, but this is reduced by the talented Toby McCain Mitchell claiming his 5lb allowance.

He is slightly dropping in grade and this looks a very winnable opportunity.

The unknown is Something Simple from Ireland who races over 3 miles for the first time in a handicap.

Time for the first chase of the day, the Trucksmith Loloader Novices’ Handicap.

The improving Gris Majeur looks the answer here, dropping back in distance on ground he will love.

He is a very good-looking grey, so sure to have his supporters.

We then move on to the Trucksmith 40th Anniversary Handicap Hurdle.

The Class 4 event has attracted eight runners and looks very tricky; time for a refreshment I think.

Race 5 is the Elizabeth Trebble Handicap and the largest field of the day goes to post with 15 participants.

I am going to take a chance on Bigz Belief.

His last two runs were in Jersey and he is now in the hands of Fergal O’Brien.

With Tom Broughton on board, he could run well at a price.

The next race is the well-established Mike Trickey and Geoff White Memorial Handicap Chase.

How difficult is this one?

I am taking a chance with the Matt Sheppard-trained Chief O’Hara.

He certainly was not disgraced last time and will appreciate the step up in trip.

Finally, we have a National Hunt Flat race supported by South West Rail Solutions featuring 11 young horses at the very beginning of their careers.

I am happy to watch and see if one runs well enough to enter the H on H notebook.

So, will it be beef or beans for Sunday dinner?

All my hopes are on Gris Majeur to keep the family happy.

Wish me luck!

It is a delight to start racing at Orchard Portman this week and for those who wish to visit, tickets are available at www.tauntonracecourse.co.uk as well as on the day at the gate.

With regards to travelling to the track from town, a courtesy coach service is arranged for the day.

It will depart from outside Platform 5 of Taunton Railway Station 90 minutes before the first race and return half an hour after the start of the last.