It was Family Fun Day at Taunton last Thursday, and the crowd enjoyed plenty of non-racing entertainment alongside seven exciting races.
Racing commenced with the Frodon & Black Corton Novices’ Hurdle, and it was great to see both horses parading and carrying out their customary meet-and-greet with the crowd.
The race was won by Minella Yoga (pictured), ridden by Freddie Gingell for Team Paul Nicholls.
The trainer excels in maiden and novice events at the track, and we have seen a decent horse here.
The second race, the C&D South West Novices’ Handicap Hurdle, went to Gasmani under Charlie Maggs for trainer David Dennis.
He is a strong, good-looking horse who always looked in control and should only improve when he goes chasing.
The racecourse was delighted to host Tony and Carole Stocker’s anniversary, which they celebrated in style by head-lining the Mares’ Hurdle.
Miracles Do Happen scored for Tom Lacey and the Value Racing Club.
She was a handful before the race, but it was a fine ride from Stan Sheppard, and she should continue to improve as she matures.
In the Stables Business Park Handicap Chase, Wicked Thoughts followed up his November win at the track, again ridden by Freddie Gingell.
He relished the extended three-and-a-half-mile trip on good ground, and the Paul Nicholls-trained gelding can continue to make hay while the sun shines.
Al Sayah landed the Stag Environmental Polaris Exmoor Devon Somerset Hurdle for Neil Mulholland and Jack Tudor, giving owner Jane Cartwright another Taunton success.
The Mike’s Seventieth Birthday Celebration Chase saw a 16/1 winner in Boys Of Wexford, ridden by James Davies for Henry Oliver, while Lost In The Dream, under Jack Tudor, took the concluding bumper and looked a promising prospect.
Away from Taunton, I Am Maximus powered to a sensational victory in the Grand National, regaining his title, having won the race in 2024 and finishing runner-up last year.
He has now firmly established himself among the greatest staying chasers in modern racing history.
On a personal note, finding the second and fourth placed horses secured beef rather than beans for Sunday lunch, thereby making life much more pleasant for yours truly!
I was also privileged to witness an excellent day’s racing at Ffos Las on Sunday, with Sean Bowen registering his 100th win at the track, an incredible effort.
Then later in the afternoon, Ben Jones won on Bridget Mary to record the first century of his career.
This weekend, all roads lead to Ayr and the Scottish Grand National.
Take a look at Ask Brewster, who should have conditions to suit.
Back nearer to home, Taunton races again on Wednesday, 22 April.
It is Ladies evening with a £1,000 first prize holiday voucher for the 'Best Dressed Lady'.
Full details can be found at www.tauntonracecourse.co.uk.
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