Chepstow Horse Racing Preview & Tips — 18 August 2026

Welcome to our comprehensive Chepstow racing today guide. We are set for an exciting day of turf action in Wales on 18 August 2026, with the track currently reporting a going of Good To Firm. This afternoon’s card features 6 competitive races, providing plenty of opportunities for punters searching for the best Chepstow preview and expert Chepstow tips.

Meeting Statistics

With a combined official rating of 1,805, today’s meeting brings together 41 declared runners competing for a total prize fund of £26,969.

• Total Races: 6
• Average Field Size: 6.8 runners
• Longest Race: Community Engagement Programme Handicap Stakes (12.0f)
• Shortest Race: Trade Centre Group Maiden Fillies' Stakes (GBB Race) (5.0f)
• Highest-Rated Horse: Avionics (OFR 81)
• Youngest Horse: Delighfully Hot (2)
• Oldest Horse: Vape (9)
• Number of Debutants: 3

Big Money Races

The headline event is the Bailey Family Investments / EBF Maiden Stakes (GBB Race), run over 7.0f with a purse of £7,020, where the Andrew Balding-trained Avionics stands out as the highest-rated runner. Also featuring is the Trade Centre Group Maiden Fillies' Stakes (GBB Race) (5.0f, £5,400) and the competitive Trade Centre Uk Handicap Stakes (7.0f, £4,187), which promises to be an intriguing contest for punters.

Tips & Best Bets

While no specific betting odds are available at this time, the following entries are ones to watch based on their competitive positioning:

• Tip: Avionics (Jockey: Tom Marquand, Trainer: Andrew Balding)
• Tip: Rogue Exile (Jockey: Harry Davies, Trainer: James Owen)
• Tip: Delighfully Hot (Jockey: Billy Loughnane, Trainer: James Owen)

Course Specialists

When analysing the form, it pays to look at those with proven track records at this Welsh venue. Among trainers, Paul Nicholls (46 wins), Evan Williams (27 wins), and Grace Harris (24 wins) lead the way over the last five years. For jockeys, Harry Cobden (41 wins) and Gina Mangan (29 wins) are the ones to note. Today’s runners who have previously triumphed at Chepstow include Bobby Dassler, Ajrad, Scarfo, Evie Ross, Espona Bay, Name The Day, Too Much Trevor, Savannah Smiles, Connie's Rose, Zoulu Warrior, Vape, Arnaz, Marisitta, and Some Nightmare.

Key Trainers, Jockeys & Owners

The busiest trainers in action today include Grace Harris, Clive Cox, and James Owen. In the saddle, keep an eye on leading jockeys Billy Loughnane, Rossa Ryan, and Rob Hornby. Representing the owners, Canisbay Bloodstock and The Rogues Gallery remain the most prominent connections on the card.

For a full breakdown of the day's runners, riders, and form, view the full racecard.