Sixtygeesbaby Leads the Charge in Ripon's Feature Event

Thursday's racing schedule is packed, with live coverage from Hereford and Ripon on Sky Sports Racing. The highlight of the day is the Armstrong Memorial Handicap at Ripon, which marks the beginning of the 2026 season. This competitive event features top contenders Sixtygeesbaby and American Style. Sixtygeesbaby, now part of the David O'Meara team, is set for his second start after transferring from Tom Clover's yard in March. Although he didn't secure a win in his seasonal debut at Doncaster, he is expected to perform better this time around. American Style, on the other hand, has struggled to find his winning form, but a return to the scene of his last victory might just be what he needs to regain his momentum. Modern Times, having not been seen since his win over this course and distance in June last year, is another interesting contender, especially given the weight advantage he has over the top two. For all the latest racing news, interviews, and features, download the Sky Sports Racing app. In other news, Storm Esme looks to build on her promising juvenile season, which included two wins from three starts, as she takes on the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap. Cotai Belle, who finished ahead of Storm Esme in the Two-Year-Old Trophy at Redcar, will be looking to rediscover her early season form. Wyle Cop, having already secured a win on the All-Weather this season, could be a dark horse now that he's back on turf. Meanwhile, at Hereford, Sherborne is aiming for a hat-trick in the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase. Following emphatic wins at Exeter and Ascot, Joe Tizzard's gelding seems capable of handling the step up in class. Insurrection, dropping down in class after a disappointing run at Cheltenham, might find this race more to his liking, especially with the reduced trip. Black Hawk Eagle, with a recent win at Chepstow and a low weight, cannot be overlooked. The day's racing also includes an 0-85 handicap at Ripon and eight low-grade races from ParisLongchamp.