Saturday’s racing schedule promises a packed programme, featuring live coverage from Chester, Lingfield and Newton Abbot on Sky Sports Racing. The centerpiece of the afternoon is the Listed Chester Stakes, a high‑profile contest that will see a quality duo – Lazy Griff and By The Book – headlining a field of eight runners. Trainer Charlie Johnston has entered Lazy Griff, a horse that has displayed a respectable level of form over the summer.
After a promising return to the track that culminated in an impressive win at Sandown, the gelding now carries a three‑pound penalty for that victory. Although his performance in the Goodwood Cup last month saw him finish seventh, the connections will be hoping he can rediscover the best of his ability and claim the Chester Stakes. By The Book, another strong contender, is trained by Charlie Appleby and ridden by Billy Loughnane. The five‑year‑old has already proven his class with a solid second‑place finish in a comparable grade at Beverley in early July.
Despite his limited racing experience for his age, he remains a serious threat to the favourite and could very well upset the odds. Among the other entries, Fantasy World is a fascinating prospect for Andrew Balding’s stable. After spending part of the season over hurdles, the horse is now stepping back down to the level of the Chester Stakes, offering a fresh angle for bettors looking for value.
The Aubrey Loze Memorial Handicap Hurdle at Newton Abbot will see Handlethekettle chase a third consecutive win. Trained by Jamie Snowden, the horse has been tried extensively as a novice and has thrived since moving into handicap company. With Isabelle Ryder aboard and a generous five‑pound weight allowance, Handlethekettle is positioned well to repeat his recent success.
Supreme Yeats, who displayed a commendable attitude in his most recent outing at Bangor, where he secured a sixth career victory, is expected to stay close to the pace over the longer distance on offer. His consistency makes him a solid pick for those seeking a reliable place finish. Kitty Foyle, campaigned by Daisy Hitchen, is a consistent hurdler who should be fit after a recent flat run. Her versatility across surfaces adds depth to the field and makes her a contender worth monitoring.
On the turf, George Boughey’s Asuka aims to preserve an unbeaten record in the Virgin Bet Supports Safe Gambling Handicap. The yard has been on a roll recently, with Libertango taking the Lowther Stakes at York and Asuka himself delivering a strong performance at Lingfield after a narrow defeat at Wolverhampton in July. Following a successful handicap debut at Thirsk, a modest three‑pound weight increase may not deter him from adding another win to his tally. Whip Cracker also brings solid form to the mix, having shown his durability with a runner‑up finish over a longer distance in May.
While not a guaranteed winner, his proven stamina keeps him in contention for a place finish. Collecting Coin, who captured a course‑and‑distance race just 28 days ago, returns with confidence. Meanwhile, Yanifer and Two Tempting, the winners of the last two editions of this particular race, will be among the favourites, given their proven ability to handle the conditions. The broadcast will also feature a range of international fixtures.
At 7.30 am, the Group One Winx Stakes at Randwick will showcase a clash between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi, promising a blockbuster showdown. Later, at 3.15 pm, Chester will host Nicely and Kentucky Rain, while Bated Benevolence looks competitive.
Other notable races include a 3.05 pm meeting at Newton Abbot where Gore Point seeks a fourth victory, and a 1.55 pm novices’ hurdle at the same venue with Paddy Brennan’s King’s Scholar leading a six‑runner field. Lingfield’s 5.10 pm Class Four race will feature Epictetus among nine entries, while a 1.31 pm Listed contest at Deauville presents Majnoun and Big Money Man as potential above‑average performers. Across the Atlantic, Saratoga will host two high‑profile events: the Grade Two Sunlit Uplands at 11.07 pm, representing jockey Stuart Williams and rider Johnny Velazquez, followed by the Grade One Alabama Stakes at 11.42 pm. In California, Del Mar’s early morning schedule includes a Grade One Oaks at 2 am, featuring Joseph O’Brien’s Sandringham winner, with Kensington Lane making a debut for Philip D’Amato.
The same venue will later present the Grade One Pacific Classic at 2.30 am, where Knightsbridge and Hit Show will be among the key contenders. Finally, back at Chester at 3.50 pm, the 700,000‑gns yearling Ivory Moon will make his debut for trainer George Boughey, adding an extra point of interest for the day’s racing enthusiasts. For those who want to stay updated on the latest racing news, interviews, and feature stories, Sky Sports Racing offers a comprehensive mobile experience, ensuring fans never miss a beat of the action.