We enjoyed a fitting way to bring the curtain down on another season at Bath Racecourse, with a successful finale on October 29 providing plenty of reasons to celebrate before we turn our attention to the winter months.
We were fortunate with the weather, enjoyed a decent crowd and, perhaps most pleasingly, saw a familiar face among the winners as owners Paul and Ann De Weck’s Connie's Rose landed the final race of our 2026 season.
Paul is a regular supporter of Bath, with a number of his horses running at the course throughout the year, so it was particularly nice to see him finish the season on a high.
He was actually enjoying one of our frequent-runner hospitality tables on the day, an initiative which rewards owners who support our racecourse regularly.
To have one of his horses win the final race while he was dining with us made it an especially memorable afternoon.
There were plenty of other highlights, too, including an impressive debut victory for Seed in the second division of the mile novice stakes.
The Hughie Morrison-trained two-year-old, ridden by David Probert, won by four and three-quarter lengths, catching the eye with a performance that suggests he could have a bright future.
Hughie was understandably enthusiastic afterwards, suggesting there could be a serious three-year-old career ahead of the colt. It was a lovely performance to witness as we brought the season to its conclusion.
We also took the opportunity to recognise some of the people and horses who have made this year special.
Our Ride of the Season award went to Bath's leading jockey Finley Marsh for his winning partnership with Blue Hero, a thoroughly deserved recognition of a memorable performance.
Presenting the final trophy of the season was a nice way for me to round off the racing calendar, although it certainly doesn't mean we can put our feet up.
Our gates may now be closed to racing until March 26, when Good Friday gets our 2027 season under way, but Bath remains a very busy place.
We move straight into a packed programme of events, starting with our fireworks celebrations this Friday. Demand has been extremely encouraging.
Weather permitting, there will also be a spectacular balloon light-up, featuring four hot-air balloons rising to music in a display inspired by the Balloon Fiesta. It promises to be something a little different.
Then, on November 21, we have a Rudolph-themed drone show to look forward to, before our Christmas party programme gets under way on November 27.
The parties have proved particularly popular, with just two venue nights still available and the remaining dates booked up.
We made a few changes to our approach last year, introducing a Monte Carlo theme. It gave the occasions a more glamorous feel and, judging by the number of repeat bookings we have received, the changes have certainly gone down well.
It is particularly pleasing to see businesses continuing to support these events and making the commitment to bring their staff together for a Christmas celebration.
There is also plenty of work taking place behind the scenes as we begin planning for next year's racing programme.
We are already looking at the 2027 fixture list and considering how we can build on what has been another enjoyable season.
