Big Prices and Bigger Potential: Thursday’s Value Selects
If you’re on the hunt for value plays and juicy returns, Thursday’s racing calendar offers plenty to get excited about. While short-priced favourites like On The Inlet (2/7) at Wolverhampton and Minella Yoga (2/5) at Taunton are likely banker material, our focus shifts to the less obvious — outsider picks with genuine chances of landing the spoils. With 27 races across Aintree, Southwell, Wolverhampton, and Taunton, there’s no shortage of opportunities.
Standout names include Coolagh Magic at 11/1 in the Wolverhampton 18:30 and Moroder at 25/1 in the Taunton 16:15. Dig a little deeper, and you’ll find an eye-catching 125/1 chance from Aintree in the form of Billey Shiftit in the 17:15. Let’s break it all down and find where the value lies.
Coolagh Magic 11/1: Well-Handicapped and Ready to Strike at Wolverhampton
The evening card at Wolverhampton often rewards all-weather specialists, and Coolagh Magic (18:30) fits that bill perfectly. Currently priced at 11/1, this William Carson-ridden runner offers superb each-way value. While recent form figures (00-703) don’t leap off the page, those in the know will note that his last start over course and distance yielded a close third in a competitive Class 5 contest.
Tonight’s field of nine runners looks more winnable, and Coolagh Magic is now running off a 2lb lower mark of 63. What’s more, trainer Derek Shaw boasts a respectable strike rate with all-weather sprinters at this track, particularly at this trip (7f-1m). With the going rated as Standard (Tapeta), Coolagh Magic’s proven ability on this surface could see him outrun his odds. Expect him to be ridden prominently, as per his preferred running style.
This race is a prime candidate for an each-way flutter. Use our betting calculator to map out potential returns if you fancy Coolagh Magic to hit the places.
Moroder 25/1: Not Just a Longshot at Taunton
Switching gears to the jumps card at Taunton, the 16:15 (2m 7f, Good) might just host the day’s biggest upset. At 25/1, Moroder, trained by Seamus Durack and ridden by experienced pilot James Best, represents cracking value in this handicap hurdle.
Moroder hasn’t been at his best lately, but he’s now fallen to a much-reduced handicap mark of 115. Look back a year, and you’ll see he was winning at this level off marks in the mid-130s. Crucially, he’s shown an affinity for better ground, and the Good going will suit him far better than the heavy conditions he’s faced in recent outings. With a small field of eight, he’ll have less traffic to navigate, and if James Best can keep him in touch, don’t be surprised if Moroder takes advantage of what looks like a fair bit of pace up front.
This is more than just a shot in the dark — Moroder has genuine claims. Keep an eye on movements in the betting ring; any market support would further boost confidence.
Billey Shiftit 125/1: Aintree Outsider Worth a Punt
Big fields and big odds often go hand in hand, and Thursday’s 17:15 at Aintree (2m 209y, Good to Soft) epitomises this trend with 20 runners set to line up. Amongst them, the 125/1-priced Billey Shiftit catches the eye.
While logic alone might not point you towards a horse beaten 50 lengths in his last outing, there are factors in his favour. First, the drop back to 2m suits this son of Shirocco far better than the extended trips he’s endured this season. Second, during his 2025 campaign, Billey Shiftit posted a career-best performance over this course and distance, finishing fourth in a strong novice event. Finally, jockey R T Dunne, a frequent Aintree performer, takes the reins again, and he’s had notable success when dealing with long-priced runners at this track.
If you’re looking to take a swing at a massive outsider for a small stake, Billey Shiftit might be your golden ticket. For more longshot options, head to our each-way selections.
Other Value Picks to Watch
- Button It (100/1, Southwell 15:47): This filly has been crying out for a step up to today’s 1m trip and gets it here. Trainer connections have suggested she’s better than her form suggests.
- Jacks Brother (66/1, Taunton 17:55): A novice with hidden potential. While he’s up against more seasoned rivals, his solid jumping could see him grab a place.
If you’re taking a multi-race approach, check out our accumulator tips for combinations that include these value picks.
Best Bets Summary for Thursday
- Coolagh Magic (11/1, Wolverhampton 18:30): Solid each-way contender, well-handicapped on all-weather form.
- Moroder (25/1, Taunton 16:15): Marked improvement expected on better ground; live outsider.
- Billey Shiftit (125/1, Aintree 17:15): Massive odds, but past course and distance efforts offer hope in a big field.
- Button It (100/1, Southwell 15:47): Low-risk longshot, with the trip likely to bring out her best.
- Jacks Brother (66/1, Taunton 17:55): Capable of sneaking into the places in a novice contest.
Ready to Back a Winner?
Whether you’re opting for steady favourites or swinging for the fences with the outsiders, Thursday’s action promises plenty of intrigue. To fine-tune your bets, view today's full racecards and explore more AI-driven tips. Don’t forget to check for non-runners and keep an eye on live results to stay ahead of the game.
Whatever angle you play, best of luck with today’s racing!
