It’s been a bit chilly lately and plenty of meetings have fallen to dear old Jack Frost.
As I write, it looks as though the temperatures are rising, which gives Taunton a real fighting chance of racing this Thursday.
Seven races are planned with the first due off at 1 pm and it is a 2 mile 3 furlong Novices’ Hurdle.
Paul Nicholls usually runs something of significance in the track's Novice and Maiden hurdles and this race is no exception with course winner Calvino (pictured) representing Team Ditcheat.
However, I think Bright Legend could be of interest and I am tentatively edging towards him.
Next up is the first division of the Maiden Hurdle with Onlyforfrankie setting the standard on ratings and he will surely take all the beating.
The second division isn’t as clear cut, however this could be the Nicholls winner with Pourquoi Pas Papa, who gets a four year old weight allowance against older horses.
A good run at Sandown in a class 2 hurdle looks enough to take the honours, with a Harry Cobden front running ride looking likely.
It is then time for the first chase of the afternoon and six runners go to post.
Irish Chorus ran a career best time at Leicester but has a tendency to jump left, which is not ideal for right handed Taunton, so preference is for Hypotenus, who could well go off in front, put the others under pressure and not see another rival.
Time for the 26th February Landlord’s Raceday Handicap Hurdle and without doubt the most competitive race of the day.
Celtic Art returns after his win at the track in early December, however this looks a deeper race.
The dangers are Time Interval, who is back on a winning mark and will enjoy the better ground, along with Brave Knight, whose last race possibly came too soon after his previous win.
A repeat of that form will put him right up there and they are my two against the field.
We then look forward to the first Hunter Chase of 2026 and bring on Unexpected Party.
He has some serious form, including a win at the Cheltenham Festival.
He is stepping up in trip though, which may not be ideal, however surely class will win the day.
A watch for me though as he will surely be a short price.
Finally, we have the 9th March Dragonbet Festival Fever Mares’ Hurdle and it is not an easy race to assess.
I am going for Bluenose Belle.
She ran well to finish second at Ludlow last time on her seasonal debut, should improve and is consistent, so I will take her to pay for the taxi home.
It is sure to be an excellent day and if you fancy coming along, tickets are available at www.tauntonracecourse.co.uk as well as on the day at the gate.
A courtesy coach service has been arranged for the day.
It will depart from outside platform 5 of Taunton Railway Station 90 minutes before the first race time and return half an hour after the start of the last.
Share