Monday 8th January 2024
Author: Jordan Yates (EvRacing_)
Welcome aboard to Monday’s Midweek Preview where my attention turns to Taunton where I’ve once again got several selections to share with you all. As ever, make sure to gamble responsibly if you are having a bet.
Prices correct as of 16:30 07/01/2024
12.55: Farmers Friend Novices’ Hurdle: My first selection of the afternoon comes in the 12.55 which is a novice hurdle over two miles and three furlongs. I think Insurrection can get back into the winner’s enclosure here for Paul Nicholls and Harry Cobden. He created a big impression when winning at Exeter on his hurdling debut, before finishing second at Sandown within Grade 2 company on his most recent outing. He drops back down a furlong here which I think will suit, and the ground won’t be quite as testing. I think he should have a serious say. Insurrection – EvsF (Win)
1.25: Blackdown Motor Company Maiden Hurdle: Next up is the 1.25 which is a maiden hurdle that’s ridden over two miles and half of a furlong. I’m siding with Goonhilly here who represents the team of Dan and Harry Skelton, he arrives here with the best form on offer having finished second to the progressive Norman Fletcher at Aintree last time out, and whilst the Henderson favourite could be another smart one, I think this horse sets a solid enough standard. He should continue to progress and he comes here with a live chance. Goonhilly – 7/2 (Win)
2.25: Major Denis Burton Royal Welsh Memorial Novices’ Handicap Chase: We go over the larger obstacles at 2.25 with a novice handicap chase over two miles. I think that this can go to Keep Running for Warren Greatrex and James Bowen, he reopposes Dr T J Eckleburg here who got the better of him last time, at much better weights, and the distance only being half of a length on that occasion. He should come on for that run too and off just two-pounds higher he should go well. Keep Running – 13/8F (Win)
3.00: Stables Business Park Handicap Hurdle: My fourth and concluding punt of the afternoon comes in the 3.00 which is a handicap hurdle ridden over two miles and three furlongs. I like Vicki Vale here who’s another runner for Dan and Harry Skelton, and at the time of writing is a 5/1 chance in the betting. She’s posted two highly encouraging efforts so far this term in competitive handicaps at Wincanton and Aintree, finishing in the frame in both. She’s also been dropped a pound for the Aintree run, and in slightly calmer waters here she can make her presence felt once again. Vicki Vale – 5/1 (Win)
