Thursday's racing schedule is packed, with events from Hereford and Ripon broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The highly-regarded Sixtygeesbaby and American Style are set to clash in a competitive Armstrong Memorial Handicap, marking the beginning 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.

Although he didn't win in his seasonal debut at Doncaster last month, he showed promise and is expected to perform better in his next outing. American Style, on the other hand, has struggled to find his winning form, particularly towards the end of the previous season. However, he has the potential to excel if circumstances favor him, and his return to the scene of his last victory could be a positive factor.

Another contender, Modern Times, is an interesting prospect, having not competed since his win over this course and distance in June of the previous year. He receives a significant weight advantage from the top two contenders, making him a difficult competitor to rule out. For the latest news, interviews, and features on horse racing, download the Sky Sports Racing app. Storm Esme, a relatively untested filly, aims to overcome a 4lbs rise in the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap.

After a successful juvenile season, which included two wins from three starts, Storm Esme is looking to start her current season on a strong note. She will face competition from Cotai Belle, who finished two places ahead of Storm Esme in the Listed race at Redcar. However, Cotai Belle will need to regain her early-season form to overcome the weight disadvantage.

Wyle Cop, having had two All-Weather starts this season, including a win, could perform well now that he's back on turf. Sherborne is attempting to complete a hat-trick in the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase at Hereford, following convincing wins at Exeter and Ascot.

Given his impressive winning margins, it's possible that Joe Tizzard's gelding will take the rise in class in stride. Insurrection, on the other hand, takes a drop in class after a disappointing finish in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham in March.

This return to a lower level of competition should work in his favor. Black Hawk Eagle, having won at Chepstow last time out, is up 3lbs but still has a relatively low weight, making him a competitor to watch.

The day's events also include an 0-85 handicap at Ripon and eight low-grade races from ParisLongchamp.