In the latest instalment of his Clerk’s Column, Bath Racecourse clerk of the course Ben Hicks writes exclusively for the Bath Echo.
It was fantastic to get the new season started at Bath on Easter Sunday – and what a way to start.
There was a real sense of anticipation and excitement leading into this fixture, and it really did deliver.
We welcomed many people back through the gates at Lansdown, with so many keen to get back racing with us after the winter break.
As ever, raceday began bright and early with a 6am track walk.
Following the dry week leading into the meeting, the going was described as good, good to firm in places, and we were pleased to receive around 2mm of rainfall during the early hours of raceday morning.
That bit of moisture proved ideal and held the going at the same as it was when 93 horses declared on Good Friday.
Considering 143 entries were made, this was a very healthy conversion rate, and it triggered the last race to divide into two 14-runner contests.
The feature race, the Lansdown Fillies’ Stakes, was a real highlight as we hoped it would be, and it certainly looked a very competitive affair on paper, with 14 fillies heading to post.
It produced a very close finish, with a photo required to separate the leading pair.
In the end, it was Ed Bethell’s filly Azure Angel who got the verdict, winning by a short head under jockey Kieran Shoemark.
While the weather stayed dry throughout, there was a persistent headwind which made the home straight that little bit more testing.
This added element also made it less likely horses were able to make up significant ground from behind, so being sharp out of the gates was important to establish a handy position.
We were delighted to receive many compliments on the going and the presentation of the track, as well as the site in general.
It is always satisfying to hear and is a real credit to the entire grounds team, who have worked well to get everything in top order.
Days like this are a testament to their dedication and attention to detail, and I am grateful for the effort they continue to put in.
Another major focus for me personally was seeing the new weighing room in operation for the first time.
This has been a significant project over the past few months and I have spoken about it a lot.
It was good to see it in use for the first time. We were especially encouraged by the number of positive comments from jockeys, who were very appreciative of the improved layout and upgraded facilities.
It is a big step forward for us and something that will benefit all participants going forward.
All in all, it was a hugely successful start to the season and each fixture now will come thick and fast!
The racing surface took the wear very well, so I think we will be leaving the rail alignment the same for the next raceday which takes place on Friday 17th April.
Gates will open at 2.50pm, with the first of seven races scheduled for 4.50pm.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back again for fixture number two of the year!
