Sixtygeesbaby Leads the Charge in Ripon Feature

Thursday's racing schedule is packed with events from Hereford and Ripon, all broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The highly anticipated Armstrong Memorial Handicap at Ripon's 2026 season opener will see top contenders Sixtygeesbaby and American Style face off in a competitive field. Sixtygeesbaby, now with the David O'Meara team, is set for his second start after switching from Tom Clover's yard in March. Although he didn't secure a win in his seasonal return at Doncaster last month, he showed promise and is expected to perform better this time around. American Style, on the other hand, has struggled to find his winning form, particularly towards the end of last season, but he has the potential to excel if circumstances favor him. He returns to the scene of his last victory, racing over the same distance. Modern Times is another interesting contender, having not competed since his win over this course and distance in June last year, and he receives a significant weight advantage over the top two contenders. It's difficult to rule him out of the running. For all the latest news, interviews, and features from the racing world, download our app for updates on the go. Storm Esme, relatively untested, aims to overcome a 4lbs rise in the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap. After a successful juvenile season, winning two out of three starts, Storm Esme looks to start this season on a high note. Her campaign last year included a debut win at Newcastle, followed by a challenging outing in the Two-Year-Old Trophy at Redcar, where she finished 11th, and then a win at Leicester. Cotai Belle, who competed against Storm Esme in the same Listed race at Redcar, finishing two places ahead, will also be in the running, though she faces a tougher challenge due to her weight disadvantage. Wyle Cop, with two All-Weather starts this season, including a win and a third place in a sprint handicap at Southwell, has the advantage of being race-fit and could perform well back on turf. For the latest in horse racing news, check out our coverage on Sky Sports Racing. Sherborne is set to take a step up in class as he attempts to secure a hat-trick in the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase at Hereford. His first win came in mid-March with a commanding 14-length victory at Exeter, followed by another impressive win at Ascot. Given his dominant wins, it's plausible that Joe Tizzard's gelding could handle the rise in class and secure another win. Insurrection, dropping down in class after a disappointing finish in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham, also takes a significant drop in distance, which could work in his favor. Black Hawk Eagle, with a 3lbs increase for his win at Chepstow, is not to be underestimated, especially considering his light weight. The day will also feature an 0-85 handicap at Ripon and eight races from ParisLongchamp, focusing on lower-grade action.