The Champion Two-Year-Old Trophy at Ripon is set to be the centerpiece of Sky Sports Racing’s Bank Holiday Monday broadcast, with additional fixtures from Chepstow and Southwell also featured live. The Ripon meeting promises a blend of emerging talent and proven performers, each bringing a distinct storyline to the day’s programme. **Clash Of Hearts** arrives at Ripon carrying the confidence of a maiden victory secured at Pontefract, where he displayed a patient, “empathic” running style that hinted at his ability to settle and finish strongly.
After that first win, he was entered in a nursery at Glorious Goodwood and produced a respectable effort, confirming that his early promise was not a one‑off performance. Most recently, Clash Of Hearts contested the Group Three Acomb Stakes at York, finishing fifth, just over five lengths behind the heavily backed winner Haffner.
That run demonstrated his capacity to handle a step up in class and distance, suggesting he could be well‑placed for the two‑year‑old contest at Ripon. **Rogue Jewel** is unbeaten in two starts for The Rogues Gallery partnership, and his pedigree for the Ripon course is evident. He captured his second win at this very track not long ago, indicating a clear affinity for the surface and the course’s unique undulations.
Trainer Ed Bethell will be eager to see his colt build on that form, as the two‑year‑old trophy offers a valuable platform for a horse that appears to thrive at Ripon. **Pure Mint**, a son of Minzaal, represents the well‑established Simon and Ed Crisford stable under the guidance of jockey Harry Davies. The colt made a striking impression when he bolted to victory at Ripon last month, adding to the Crisfords’ impressive record at the venue – they have claimed three of the last six renewals of this race. Their familiarity with the track and proven success rate make Pure Mint a serious contender, especially given his recent win and the confidence the owners have shown in targeting this event.
**English Oak**, rated 102, is the top‑rated entrant in the Ripon Rowels Handicap, carrying nine pounds more than his nearest rivals. The horse’s higher rating reflects consistent performances at a level above the rest of the field, and the handicapper has assigned a weight that acknowledges his superior ability. If English Oak can settle into a comfortable rhythm and make use of his class, he should be able to withstand the pressure from the lower‑rated challengers and secure a respectable placing.
A former Royal Ascot winner, **[Unnamed Royal Ascot victor]**, is also in the mix, looking to rebound after a disappointing 16th‑of‑18 finish in the Golden Mile at Goodwood last month. The horse’s previous Group success suggests a high‑class pedigree that could translate into a strong showing at Ripon, provided the trainer can restore confidence and sharpen the horse’s fitness after the recent underperformance. **Thunder Roar** returns to a weight of 93, the same mark that saw him win at Ayr in September of the previous year. After a brief spell at 100 pounds, the reduction back to 93 makes him a more competitive entry in the handicap.
The weight adjustment could be pivotal, as it aligns his carrying load with the level at which he previously demonstrated winning ability. **Mr Professor**, the 2024 Lincoln winner, is making his third start for trainer Kevin Philippart de Foy. He comes to Ripon after finishing second at Kempton, a performance that underlines his consistency and adaptability across different tracks. His recent form suggests he is in good shape and could be a strong contender in the two‑year‑old contest.
The top‑weight in the valuable Chepstow Mile Series Final Handicap, **Revelance**, faces a 4‑pound penalty. The race offers just over £20,000 to the winner, adding a lucrative incentive. Revelance earned her place in the final by winning the Chepstow Mile Series Qualifier earlier in August, delivering a comfortable victory under the experienced riding of Eddy Greatrex. Her main rival from that qualifier, **Nakaaha**, will be carrying seven pounds less this time, creating a notable weight swing that could influence the outcome.
**Spirit Of The Bay** enjoyed a victory at Ripon in July and subsequently posted a credible third in the aforementioned Chepstow Mile Series race. His form suggests he handles the track well and can compete effectively against higher‑rated opposition.
Alongside him, **Too Much Trevor** and **Redhot Whisper** arrive at Ripon on the back of wins at the same venue, meaning they cannot be dismissed as mere outsiders. Their recent successes indicate they have the speed and stamina required for the two‑year‑old distance.
Overall, the Bank Holiday Monday card offers a compelling blend of youthful promise and seasoned ability. The Champion Two‑Year‑Old Trophy will likely be decided by a combination of pedigree, prior course experience, and the strategic placement of weight in the handicaps. Viewers can expect a tightly contested race, with several horses—Clash Of Hearts, Rogue Jewel, Pure Mint, and the Crisford‑trained son of Minzaal—positioned to challenge for the prize. Meanwhile, the supporting races at Chepstow and Southwell will provide additional drama, particularly the Chepstow Mile Series Final Handicap, where Revelance’s weight penalty and Nakaaha’s lighter assignment set the stage for a tactical battle.
Sky Sports Racing’s live coverage will capture all the action, delivering an exciting day of racing for fans across the country.