Thursday's racing schedule is packed, with live coverage from Hereford and Ripon on Sky Sports Racing. The highly anticipated Armstrong Memorial Handicap at Ripon's 2026 season opener features top contenders Sixtygeesbaby and American Style.
Sixtygeesbaby, in his second start under the David O'Meara team, looks to improve upon his recent Doncaster performance. American Style seeks a return to form, having struggled towards the end of last season, but has the potential to excel if circumstances favor him. Modern Times, having been off the scene since June, poses an interesting challenge with a significant weight advantage over the top two. It's also worth keeping an eye on the unexposed Storm Esme as she attempts to defy a 4lbs rise in the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap.
Storm Esme begins her season after a promising juvenile campaign, which included wins at Newcastle and Leicester. Cotai Belle, who faced Storm Esme in the Two-Year-Old Trophy at Redcar, will need to regain her early season form to overcome the weight disadvantage. Wyle Cop, with recent All-Weather experience, could perform well upon returning to turf.
Meanwhile, at Hereford, Sherborne aims for a hat-trick in the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase, stepping up in class after convincing wins at Exeter and Ascot. Insurrection drops down in class and distance, which could work in his favor, while Black Hawk Eagle cannot be overlooked despite being up 3lbs after a recent Chepstow victory.