My picks for Taunton Thursday

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13:30 Taunton Thu 30 Mar 2m Juv Hrd

  1. Spartan Army (IRE) – With a comfortable win on debut over hurdles and subsequent solid performances in Grade 2 races, Spartan Army holds strong claims and should be well-suited to the drop in class.
  2. Jilaijone (FR) – A fair ex-French hurdler with a winning start for the new yard and consistent efforts, Jilaijone is a major form contender. Despite a backward step at Exeter, a return to a juvenile hurdle should make him a significant factor in this race.
  3. Only Fools (IRE) – Successful in a claimer and handicap on the Flat in France, Only Fools has clear potential if she can continue to progress now hurdling. Joining a new stable could also be beneficial, and she is worth considering for a top-three finish.

14:05 Taunton Thu 30 Mar 2m Mdn Hrd

  1. Donnie Azoff: With consistent form and placing in five of his seven career starts, he sets the form standard. His recent clear second in Fontwell maiden hurdle adds to his credentials.
  2. Fever Dream: Although he had a well-held sixth over C&D last week, he had a strong third at Sandown prior to that. He remains one of the main players based on bare RPRs.
  3. Fuji Rocks: Despite unseating his rider at Ludlow last week, he has shown promise in his bumper/hurdles form. If he can put that stumble behind him, he has potential for a place in this race.

14:40 Taunton Thu 30 Mar 2m7f Nov Hcap Chs

  1. Art Decco has shown significant improvement since switching to chasing, with a 7-length success in a handicap chase at Fontwell. With form at up to 3 miles and the potential for further progress, he looks to be a major contender in this race.
  2. Garincha: With two wins from four starts over fences this season, Garincha has demonstrated good form and adaptability. His recent win at Fontwell and potential to stay the longer distance makes him a likely player in this race.
  3. Mumbo Jumbo: Despite still being a maiden, Mumbo Jumbo’s form is quite strong. His performance at Kempton, finishing one place behind the subsequent Midlands National winner, suggests that he can compete well in this race. With a workable mark, a drop in grade, and the benefit of Joe Anderson taking off a useful 7lb, Mumbo Jumbo is one to watch.

15:15 Taunton Thu 30 Mar 2m3f Hcap Hrd

  1. Balko Saint (FR) – Has proven form over hurdles and showed promise in his latest chase start. Back to hurdling, he is well treated and has the potential to run a big race, especially if he can resolve his jumping issues.
  2. Decorated – Made all for an easy win in his last start and seems to be progressing well. The addition of a tongue-tie and the potential for further improvement at this trip make him a strong contender in this race.
  3. Earth King (IRE) – Opened his account in his last start and has shown steady progress. While the form might not be exceptional, he has the potential for further improvement and is one to consider on his handicap debut.

15:50 Taunton Thu 30 Mar 3m Hcap Hrd

  1. Iberio (GER) – Despite not appearing to get home over this trip on his penultimate start, Iberio has a solid record in handicaps and has previously won twice at this venue. His latest outing at Exeter showcased a decent effort, and if he sees out the 3m trip on this second attempt, he could be a big player.
  2. Mr Tambourine Man (IRE) – Mr Tambourine Man showed improvement last spring with wins at Exeter and Ffos Las. Although returning from a 318-day absence, he could be a major player if he maintains his previous form and stays the longer trip.
  3. My Last Oscar (IRE) – My Last Oscar has been successful in Class 5 handicaps, including a C&D victory. Though his current form is questionable based on his two runs this season, if he can manage a clear round at this course, he could be a contender.

16:25 TauntonThu 30 Mar 2m Nov Hcap Chs

  1. Howyouplaythegame (FR) – Showed significant improvement on his handicap chase debut at Market Rasen, finishing a strong second. With an obvious claim and only a 1 lb increase, he has a solid chance of building on that effort and is a leading contender in this race.
  2. Poet’s Reflection (IRE) – Although lacking recent match practice and chasing experience, she returns to the scene of her sole hurdles win and could be a threat if she adapts well to the fences. Her potential should not be underestimated.
  3. Prime Pretender – Despite a 0-16 rules record, this horse has a good chance off its current mark if the first-time visor proves effective. With favourable treatment on its best efforts, Prime Pretender could surprise with a strong performance.

17:00 Taunton Thu 30 Mar 2m NHF

  1. Johnnywho (IRE) – Displayed strong potential in his sole start between the flags and brings plenty of promise to rules racing. He’s an interesting contender on his Rules debut.
  2. Pentire Head (IRE) – Nicely bred and has shown promise in both runs, finishing third at Chepstow and neck second at Exeter. He’s a major contender in this race.
  3. Bhaloo (IRE) – An eye-catching fourth at Kempton on debut last March, Bhaloo has had wind surgery since then and returns with a tongue-tie. With market support, he could be a strong contender for improvement.

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