Monday promises a packed schedule of flat racing across three venues—Ripon, Southwell and Windsor—with live coverage on Sky Sports Racing. The highlight at Windsor is the Fitzdares Sprint Series Handicap, where the seasoned campaigner Amazonian Dream heads a field of fourteen contenders. Amazonian Dream, trained by the respected Rod Milman, has been a reliable performer on his preferred tracks. He secured his first win of the season just a week ago, a triumph that marked his first victory since 2024.
For this race he carries five pounds more than in his winning effort, reflecting his upward move in class. Despite the added weight, the manner of his recent win—showing a turn of foot and composure under pressure—suggests he will still be a serious threat in a competitive sprint.
Among his rivals, the lightly‑raced Regional Rock looks poised to challenge. The horse was narrowly beaten by a neck at Doncaster in his last outing and will be eager to reverse that result. Regional Rock’s recent form indicates that he thrives over similar distances and could exploit any lapses from the older Amazonian Dream. Sudden Flight has also returned to the track after being fitted with a new cheekpiece.
The equipment change appears to have sharpened his focus, and he is expected to contest the early pace, hoping to break his season’s duck and claim his first win of the year. Four‑year‑old Sharp Move makes a highly anticipated comeback in the First Aid Training Novice Stakes, where he will meet the improving Humphrey. Sharp Move, a son of the legendary Frankel, impressed on debut by winning by seven lengths at Newcastle last November. That dominant performance has earmarked him as a future star, and his connections anticipate further progress now that he is four.
However, he will face a solid field that includes race‑fit, well‑bred horses that have yet to reveal their full potential. Humphrey, a half‑brother to Royal Ascot winner Gregory, was a clear favorite in his Sandown start but looked green and was beaten at odds‑on. With more experience under his belt, he is expected to improve markedly and could be a genuine contender for the win. Another noteworthy entrant is the Kingman‑sired colt Turrent, who displayed a strong finish at Carlisle last month, pulling away in the final stages.
His recent run demonstrated stamina and a turn of foot that could prove decisive at Windsor. Similarly, the Wootton Bassett progeny Kokbastau, who looked impressive on his reappearance at Yarmouth, will be looking to translate that promise into a placing here. The race card also features the lightly‑raced Masked Warrior, who will contest the City of Ripon Handicap against five rivals. The three‑year‑old, trained by William Haggas, has already shown class by winning convincingly at Kempton and then finishing a creditable third in a competitive Class 2 handicap at Chester.
Dropped in grade for today’s race, he will be looking to capitalize on his form and add another victory to his résumé. Beyond The Bar, a revitalised contender, bounced back with a solid win at Catterick in his most recent start and will be eager to continue his upward trajectory.
Meanwhile, Enchant, owned by Wathnan, could benefit from an increase in distance on his handicap debut, while the unexposed Noelan Star aims to put his brief Royal Ascot appearance behind him and prove his worth from a starting mark of 90. Racing enthusiasts are encouraged to stay up‑to‑date with the latest news, interviews and features via the Sky Sports Racing app, ensuring they never miss a story from the world of thoroughbred sport. The day’s programme also includes several supporting races: - 6:30 am at Ripon – Towelontheterrace will attempt to overcome a penalty and prove his mettle.
- 7:05 am at Ripon – Prosperity, a half‑sister to Native Warrior, makes her debut and will be watched closely by punters. - 4:30 pm at Southwell – Rising Tiger, highly regarded by his connections, aims to break his maiden. - 5:00 pm at Southwell – The unexposed Spaceman headlines a competitive handicap, offering a chance for an upset. - 6:20 pm at Windsor – Harry Knows arrives with solid recent form and will look to add another win to his record.
Overall, Monday’s card offers a blend of proven talent, emerging prospects and seasoned campaigners, making for an exciting day of flat racing across three historic venues. Fans can anticipate tactical battles, potential upsets, and the ever‑present quest for that next big win.