Catch every moment of today’s action from Chepstow, Lingfield and Wolverhampton on Sky Sports Racing. The day’s headline race features a promising clash between two‑year‑olds Grove Street and Avionics in the Bailey Family Investments / EBF Maiden Stakes. Grove Street, trained by Brian Meehan, impressed on his debut at Sandown last month, where he was narrowly beaten by Quest For Stars. That runner‑up has since confirmed his quality by winning a solid version of the Stonehenge Stakes, while the fourth‑placed horse, King High, has gone on to claim a nice novice victory at Newbury.
Given those form lines, Grove Street is expected to be tested heavily, but Avionics could still make life difficult for him. Avionics, a Andrew Balding‑trained colt, showed a big step forward in a respectable run at Salisbury before a disappointing finish at Ffos Las, where he appeared too free in the closing stages. If he can settle his temperament this afternoon, he may well improve on that effort and give Grove Street a real challenge. Also worth watching is the Wootton Bassett‑bred filly La Bassette, who was given a considerate ride in a solid race at Glorious Goodwood and still possesses plenty of upside.
Among the other runners, George Boughey’s newcomer Talamon is a half‑sibling to Grade 1 winner Fev Rover, and could produce an encouraging debut if he is ready to go. In the Free Tips on attheraces.com Handicap, My Old Mate is aiming for a third consecutive win.
Since the removal of his headgear, the Gary and Josh Moore‑trained gelding has improved with each start, including two easy victories on the bounce at Windsor. He now carries an 11‑pound penalty for those wins, yet his finishing style suggests he will stay well clear of the handicapper’s assessment. Jockey Jude Fernandes, who enjoys a 7‑pound claim, may prove decisive on this horse, which has shown a liking for the one‑mile distance.
Other racing news includes: - Hollie Doyle anticipates that Thunder Call will feature in the Shergar Cup at Ascot, broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing on Saturday. - Jamie Lynch will have five runners to watch at the Shergar Cup as international stars clash.
- Former Premier League striker Kevin Doyle is targeting Cheltenham Festival success with Augusta Kate and La Bague Au Roi. - At Ascot, Kalpana edged out Calandagan in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. - Legendary jockey Ryan Moore has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. - Benvenuto Cellini heads a four‑horse Aidan O’Brien contingent for the Epsom Derby Classic.
Stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews and features on your mobile device – never miss a story. Among the remaining runners, Henfield is the only other horse in form, having finished a short head behind the winner at Lingfield. He could provide the main opposition to the leading contenders. Perfect Ruler remains the most unexposed entry and could deliver a career‑best performance today.
He was hampered in the final furlong at Redcar in May and never got to show his true ability. The Wolverhampton Handicap, promoted on VisitWolverhampton‑racecourse.co.uk, pits Percy’s Lad and Spaceman at the forefront of a well‑contested field.
Percy’s Lad rebounded to win after exploiting a low weight at Kempton last week and should be in a strong position again, especially since he is only five pounds above his career‑low rating. Spaceman, the least exposed runner, impressed with a win at Dunstall Park and a solid showing on his handicap debut. He is expected to continue his progression and could trouble the Fahey stable’s hopes.
Inside Story posted a career‑best effort when he ran eye‑catchingly to finish second over the course and distance on his most recent start. Meanwhile, Haadeer still holds considerable potential for the season after a respectable third place at Doncaster in his previous outing. Both horses could make notable strides if they build on those performances.
Overall, today’s card offers a mix of seasoned campaigners, rising juveniles and lightly‑exposed talent, ensuring plenty of intrigue for racing fans. Whether you are tracking the form of Grove Street and Avionics, rooting for My Old Mate’s hat‑trick, or keeping an eye on the emerging prospects at Wolverhampton, Sky Sports Racing will bring the action straight to your screen.