Thursday brings an exciting day of racing, with events from Hereford and Ripon broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The highly anticipated Armstrong Memorial Handicap at Ripon's opening 2026 season features top contenders Sixtygeesbaby and American Style.
Sixtygeesbaby, in his second start under the David O'Meara team, is expected to perform better after a decent showing at Doncaster last month. American Style, although struggling to secure a win, has the potential to succeed if circumstances favor him, especially since he's returning to the site of his previous victory. Modern Times, having not competed since winning at this course and distance in June last year, is an intriguing contender with a significant weight advantage over the top two.
The untested Storm Esme aims to overcome a 4lbs rise in the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap. Following a promising juvenile season, Storm Esme looks to start strong, while top-rated Cotai Belle and Wyle Cop also pose threats. In the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase at Hereford, Sherborne seeks to achieve a hat-trick, building on his convincing wins at Exeter and Ascot. Insurrection, dropping down in class, and Black Hawk Eagle, racing with a light weight, are also ones to watch.