Thursday brings a packed day of racing action, with events from Hereford and Ripon broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The highly-regarded Sixtygeesbaby and American Style are set to clash in the competitive Armstrong Memorial Handicap, marking the opening day of Ripon's 2026 season. Having recently joined the David O'Meara team, Sixtygeesbaby is making only his second start since switching from Tom Clover's yard in March.
He showed promise in a decent contest at Doncaster last month and is expected to be in better shape this time around. American Style, on the other hand, has struggled to find his winning form, particularly towards the end of last season. However, he possesses the ability and could make a comeback if things go in his favor, especially since he's returning to the scene of his last victory. Modern Times is another contender worth watching, having not been seen since his win over this course and distance in June last year, and he receives a significant weight advantage over the top two.
It's also worth noting that he's hard to rule out of contention. For the latest racing news, interviews, and features, download our app to stay up-to-date on your phone. The untested Storm Esme aims to overcome a 4lbs rise in the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap at Ripon. Owned by Valmont, this filly is looking to start her season on a strong note after winning two out of three races as a juvenile.
She debuted at Newcastle with a narrow win and then participated in the Two-Year-Old Trophy at Redcar, where she finished 11th. However, she bounced back with a win at Leicester, suggesting she might have more to offer.
Cotai Belle, the top-rated contender, will be re-opposing Storm Esme, having finished two places ahead of her in the same Listed race at Redcar. Although Cotai Belle is 4lbs worse off at the weights, she could still rediscover her early form and make a strong comeback. Wyle Cop has had two starts on the All-Weather this season, securing a win and a third-place finish in a competitive sprint handicap at Southwell. With his fitness on his side, he could perform well now that he's back on turf.
Sherborne is taking a step up in class in the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase as he attempts to complete a hat-trick at Hereford. His first win came in mid-March with a 14-length victory at Exeter, followed by an impressive success at Ascot.
Given the convincing margins of these wins, it's possible that Joe Tizzard's gelding will take this rise in class in stride and secure another win. Insurrection, on the other hand, is dropping down in class after finishing down the field in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham in March.
He's also taking a significant drop in trip, but this return to less demanding competition should see him in a more favorable light. Black Hawk Eagle is up 3lbs after his win at Chepstow and is racing with a relatively low weight, making him a contender who cannot be dismissed.
The day's events include a competitive 0-85 handicap at 4:16 pm at Ripon, as well as eight low-grade races from ParisLongchamp.