Monday promises a packed programme of flat racing across three venues – Bath, Lingfield Park and Wolverhampton – all streamed live on Sky Sports Racing. The highlight at Lingfield is the Tia Giggle Gallop Handicap over seven furlongs, where the highly‑rated gelding El Matador will take on six challengers. El Matador, owned by the Valmont partnership and trained by the experienced duo Hector Crouch and Ralph Beckett, arrives with a respectable record of two wins from six starts and a current rating of 87. After a promising start to his three‑year‑old season last year, when he claimed two victories in his first three outings, his form dipped in the latter part of the campaign.
A winter gelding operation is expected to have sharpened his focus, and connections are hopeful that the horse will return to his earlier best. Among his rivals, Tiger Crusade looks the most dangerous of the outsiders.
The veteran has amassed ten wins from 57 starts, but was well beaten in his last outing, finishing last of six. Despite that poor performance, he is now running at a weight that matches his last winning mark, making him a threat that should not be overlooked. The remaining contenders – King's Vanity and Silver Trumpet – appear to be the best of the rest and could provide the needed pace or a late surge to upset the favourite. In addition to the Lingfield feature, Sky Sports Racing will broadcast a variety of other races and stories throughout the day.
Viewers can stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews and feature pieces directly on their mobile devices, ensuring they never miss a beat in the sport they love. Turning to Bath, David Evans fields an intriguing runner in the Silvershine Turf Services Support Bath Maiden Stakes. The grey gelding Undercover Affair, out of the mare Secret Romance, is a full brother to Group‑level performers Rosy Affair and Cuban Mistress.
This pedigree gives him a strong genetic foundation, and Evans, known for preparing promising youngsters, will be keen to see how the colt handles his debut. Evans also sends three more runners from his stable: Dandyman Dan and Downloadmylife, both of whom will be looking to improve on previous efforts, with Downloadmylife hoping to better his modest showing in the Brocklesby.
Global Success, who finished fifth in her last start ten days ago after setting a strong pace, may use that experience to move forward in the Bath maiden. Meanwhile, Richard Hannon will be represented by the only other filly on the card, Leucothea, a daughter of Soldier's Call.
The filly makes her first start for a form‑rich stable and could be a dark horse if she settles well. At Wolverhampton, the focus shifts to a competitive handicap slated for 28 June – the Country And Western Raceday – where Epictetus, a son of the acclaimed Kingman, will contest a field of six previous course winners.
Epictetus, who placed fifth behind Ace Impact in the Prix du Jockey Club, has struggled to find his best form since winning the Group Three Thoroughbred Stakes in 2023. Dropped in class and now under the care of the Osborne team, he is expected to be more competitive and could be a strong contender.
Joining him are Big Sip, Echalar, Jez Bomb, Lordsbridge Blu, Newfangled and Renesmee – each of which has previously secured a win at Wolverhampton, ensuring a tightly contested race. The day's card also includes several notable sprinters and stayers across the venues: - 11:25 at Bordeaux – an Al Shaqab‑run by Fabre, sired by Frankel, seeking his first victory.
- 2:45 at Lingfield – Travel Agent, who will attempt to overcome a four‑pound weight increase. - 3:30 at Bath – Alvin and Comic Strip, both offering a clear class advantage in their respective divisions. - 5:00 at Bath – Zoustellar, looking to confirm his recent win at Yarmouth. - 5:20 at Lingfield – Youthful King and Son Of Man will clash in a test of speed and stamina.
- 6:00 at Wolverhampton – the half‑sister to a Listed winner, Novakai, will make her debut, adding intrigue to the lineup. - 8:00 at Wolverhampton – Forever Perfect carries a six‑pound penalty but remains a contender due to proven ability.
Overall, Monday's schedule offers a rich tapestry of storylines: a returning favourite in El Matador, promising debutants like Undercover Affair and Novakai, seasoned veterans such as Tiger Crusade, and a host of well‑matched handicaps that promise close finishes. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports Racing, catch the latest interviews, and stay informed with real‑time updates via the network’s mobile platform.
The blend of established talent and fresh blood ensures a thrilling day for racing enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for upsets and memorable performances.