In the latest instalment of his Clerk’s Column, Bath Racecourse clerk of the course Ben Hicks writes exclusively for the Bath Echo.
Easter weekend is upon us – and that means racing commences for 2026 at Bath!
Entries for this Sunday’s fixture (5th April) were finalised on Monday 30th March, and we received 143 in total across the card.
This included 18 entered in our feature race, the Listed Lansdown Fillies Stakes, an early highlight in the flat calendar, over five furlongs.
Previous years have always seen a very strong final field for this race. And after looking at entries, we are set for another competitive renewal with, hopefully, two Irish runners making the journey over.
Declarations close at 10am, 48 hours before race day, so by the time you are reading this we should know our confirmed fields.
Part of my role is to ensure timely updates are given to trainers regarding ground conditions, so 6am track walks will be resumed for declarations morning, as well as race day.
It really is a wonderful way to start any day, and I am sure it will be a real sense of the calm before the storm!
There is an exciting buzz around the site now, with everyone pulling together to complete the final touches – and this has only been aided by some welcomed sunshine!
From setting up bars, finalising restaurant and hospitality configuration as well as grounds preparation, there is plenty going on.
The track is in excellent condition, and I expect the going to be near good for Sunday.
Our layout for this fixture is the same as for our previous three opening meetings, with a false rail up the entire length of the home straight, keeping runners more up the centre of the track.
This layout is well received by trainers and jockeys and means we can manage the racing line to provide the best conditions possible throughout the 21 fixtures this season.
Our new weighing room is looking exceptional, with all photos and soft touches complete.
It has been an exciting few months being part of this transformation and something we are all looking forward to welcoming people back to.
Our stable staff facility has also undergone improvements with new furniture and layout adjustment which I am sure will be appreciated.
Tickets remain available for Sunday, with gates open from noon.
We are set for a dry day with some sunshine being rumoured to be making an appearance!
It is sure to be a wonderful day, with roaming bands, Easter egg hunts, live music and much more to make it a day for everyone to enjoy.
We hope you can join us to kick off what will be a wonderful season at Lansdown.
