Thursday promises a packed racing programme, with meetings at both Hereford and Ripon being broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The highlight of the Ripon card is the Competitive Armstrong Memorial Handicap, where the top‑rated Sixtygeesbaby will line up against the well‑regarded American Style on the opening day of the 2026 season at the historic venue. Sixtygeesbaby is only on his second start for trainer David O'Meara, having moved from Tom Clover's stable in March. After a respectable showing in a decent contest on his seasonal return at Doncaster last month, the colt is expected to be fitter and sharper for the Ripon test.
The change of yard appears to have suited him, and connections are hopeful that the extra mile in training will translate into a stronger finish when the gates open. American Style, on the other hand, has struggled to find his rhythm in recent months.
He faded towards the rear of the field in his final runs of last season, but his pedigree suggests he possesses the talent to turn things around. All that is required is a clean trip and a bit of luck to get him back to winning form. He will be revisiting the same distance that delivered his first victory last season, a factor that could prove decisive if the pace unfolds in his favour.
Also worth noting is Modern Times, a horse that has not been seen since a June victory over the same course and distance last year. He carries a respectable weight penalty from the two leading contenders, yet his previous performance indicates he cannot be written off.
If he returns to the track in good condition, he may well challenge for a place, adding another layer of intrigue to the race. Fans are reminded to stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews and feature pieces by downloading the Sky Sports Racing app, ensuring they never miss a story from the world of thoroughbred sport. In another story from the card, the previously unexposed Storm Esme aims to overcome a four‑pound penalty in the Ripon Silver Bowl Handicap. Owned by Valmont, the filly began her juvenile campaign impressively, winning two of three starts.
She debuted at Newcastle, clinching a narrow head‑margin victory, before stepping up to the Two‑Year‑Old Trophy at Redcar where she was outstayed by eight lengths, finishing eleventh. Undeterred, she rebounded with a win at Leicester just under two weeks later, demonstrating resilience and the potential for further improvement. Top‑rated Cotai Belle, who previously out‑finished Storm Esme in the same Listed race at Redcar, will also contest the Silver Bowl. Sent off at 50‑1, Cotai Belle finished two places ahead of her rival, but will be carrying four pounds more in this outing.
To return to winning ways, she will need to recapture the form that saw her excel earlier in the season. Wyle Cop has logged two All‑Weather starts this year, securing a win and a third‑place finish in a warm sprint handicap at Southwell. With fitness on his side, the gelding could translate his recent form onto the turf, making him a contender to watch. Meanwhile, at Hereford, Sherborne steps up in class for the Keltruck Ltd Handicap Chase, seeking to complete a hat‑trick of victories.
His first win of the sequence came in mid‑March at Exeter, where he surged ahead by fourteen lengths, followed by an emphatic triumph at Ascot later that month. Trainer Joe Tizzard’s gelding has shown a capacity to handle increased competition, and the connections are confident he can repeat his success at the higher level.
Insurrection, after a disappointing run down the field in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham in March, is being dropped in class and distance. The reduction in both class and trip should provide a more suitable environment for the horse to showcase his abilities, and he may well be a surprise factor in the race. Black Hawk Eagle, who carried three pounds more in a recent win at Chepstow, arrives at the meeting carrying a feather‑weight.
His recent form suggests he cannot be dismissed outright and could be a dark horse in the field. The Ripon meeting also features a Competitive 0‑85 handicap at 4.16pm, offering opportunities for horses seeking to climb the ranks.
Additionally, eight races from ParisLongchamp will be broadcast, delivering a taste of low‑grade action for international racing enthusiasts. Overall, Thursday’s programme delivers a blend of seasoned campaigners, emerging talent, and strategic class drops, promising an exciting day for punters and racing fans alike. Whether you are tracking the progress of Sixtygeesbaby’s early season development, rooting for Storm Esme’s comeback, or hoping Sherborne continues his winning streak, the day’s races offer plenty of storylines to follow. Stay tuned to Sky Sports Racing for live coverage, expert analysis, and post‑race interviews that will bring each of these narratives to life.