30th October 2012

Yesterday saw a return to winning ways, necessary after the poor Sunday, and Hidden Cyclone and Go Native obliged for a great 6/1 double. On to today's racing and it's not mesmeric, understandable with the racing at the weekend especially in Santa Anita, but here are the best selections.

15.00 Taunton

A difficult handicap contest to determine the winner from but several deserve a second look. Angles Hill heads the weights but looks vulnerable to a few here. Revani, carrying just one pound less, looks more likely to convert off the mark he has to carry today and with Walsh in the saddle that's an added bonus. He'll be fitter for his recent run at Wincanton and it would be no surprise if he is involved at the finish. Quaddick Lake is the current favourite but this distance seems to be a bare minimum for him and combined with his hold up tactics, he may not get into the race at the crucial stage and be merely seen staying on at the end. Daymar Bay is another who could probably do with further and Consulate could perhaps do with better ground. Vertige Dore brings course and distance form to the table but can't be backed with any confidence currently, so as a result I'm siding with JAYANDBEE each way. Each of the more experienced runners has plenty of holes in them, so I'm taking this hurdling newcomer to come out firing in the very able hands of Richard Johnson. His last run hinted that there could be more to come from him, his stable is in good form and he is representing local owners who I'm sure are expecting a run for their money. 8/1 Paddy Power

16.30 Taunton

This looks likely to go to one of the debutants with URUBU D'IRLANDE most likely to secure the victory. Part owned by his trainer, Ruby hangs around also to give the horse the best chance. His trainer is eyeing a future over fences already with him, but he also feels the horse has a good turn of foot, something that is necessary in these bumper races to put them to bed at the right moment. Vicator will probably need this run and his future also lies over obstacles, whilst Calusa Comet is respected based on his yard. The same applies to Oscar Rock, representing Harry Fry who seemingly has got a knack at placing a horse in the right race and may be the one to give the selection most to do here. 9/4 Stan James, Betvictor, Bet365, Coral

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer