Taunton’s next race meeting is on Wednesday, April 9.
Watch the horse races online live — free streaming available.
Spring and celebration at the racecourse
On March 25, 2025, Taunton racetrack basked in spring sunshine. The day brought not only great weather, but also seven thrilling and feel-good races.
A fiery start: young fans and a hard-fought win
The day kicked off with the Racing To School Blundell’s Preparatory School Novices’ Hurdle — an initiative that gives schoolchildren a chance to experience the world of horse racing up close. Kids were thrilled, parents beamed with pride, and victory came in a dramatic finish for Dance And Glance, trained by Anthony Honeyball and ridden by Rex Dingle — who, as it turned out, was just getting started on his winning streak.
A comfortable win for Elusiveness and anticipation of a star parade
Next came an easy victory for Elusiveness in the Par Inn Mares Handicap Hurdle. Trainer Jeremy Scott and jockey Lorcan Williams once again showcased their expertise. Incidentally, this same duo made headlines recently at Cheltenham, winning the Champion Hurdle with Golden Ace. She will be parading at Taunton on April 9, and a race will be named in her honor — the ‘Who Dares Wins’ Novice Hurdle.
Rex Dingle doubles up, and Time To Bite strikes again
Mr Zee delivered Rex Dingle his second win of the day, improving on his previous performance at the same track. Then came Time To Bite, who stormed to victory in the Deb And Wendy’s 60th Celebrations Chase, marking two wins from just three starts in the last two weeks for his trainer. The owner was absolutely delighted — and rightly so!
Don’t Wind Me Up and a record number of owners on the podium
In the Maundy Thursday Evening Meeting April 17 Handicap Hurdle, Don’t Wind Me Up took the win for the Philip Hobbs & Johnson White team. The podium was packed — possibly a record number of owners celebrating together! Returning at odds of 15/2 and continuing strong form, the team now boasts 10 wins from 25 runs this season.
Final notes and a touching anniversary
Bobbi’s Beauty won the Mares’ Chase for Martin Keighley and Sean Bowen, while Act Of Innocence dominated from the start in the Bumper for Paul Nicholls and Harry Cobden. With that kind of style and poise, he’s clearly one to watch.
But perhaps the most moving moment came with the arrival of Paddy Kenneally, celebrating his 93rd birthday. He last rode to victory at Taunton in 1955, and this return — not in the saddle, but surrounded by family and fond memories — was truly heartwarming.
