The Champion Two-Year-Old Trophy at Ripon will be contested on the Bank Holiday Monday, with additional races from Chepstow and Southwell also being broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. This feature provides a thorough look at the main contenders, their recent form, and the context surrounding each horse, giving viewers a clear picture of what to expect from the day’s action. **Clash Of Hearts** arrives at Ripon carrying a respectable record after securing his maiden victory at Pontefract in a convincing fashion.
Following that win, he delivered a solid performance in a nursery race at Glorious Goodwood, demonstrating his ability to handle a competitive field. Most recently, the colt finished fifth in the Group Three Acomb Stakes at York, trailing the well‑favoured winner Haffner by just over five lengths. This consistency across different tracks and distances suggests that Clash Of Hearts possesses both stamina and tactical speed, making him a strong candidate for the two‑year‑old trophy. **Rogue Jewel**, another promising youngster, is unbeaten in his first two starts for The Rogues Gallery operation.
He has already shown a strong affinity for the Ripian surface, having captured his second victory at the venue not long ago. Trainer Ed Bethell has highlighted the colt’s adaptability and his ability to settle well in the early stages of a race. With a proven record at this course and distance, Rogue Jewel is likely to be a key player in the contest.
**Pure Mint**, a son of the notable sire Minzaal, represents the partnership of Simon and Ed Crisford under the guidance of jockey Harry Davies. The horse impressed last month with a decisive win at Ripon, adding to the Crisfords’ impressive statistics at this track – they have claimed three of the last six renewals of the two‑year‑old trophy. Their deep familiarity with the course, combined with Pure Mint’s natural speed and recent form, makes him a serious contender that should not be overlooked.
**English Oak** is the top‑rated entrant in the Ripon Rowels Handicap, carrying a rating of 102 and a weight that is nine pounds higher than any of his rivals. The horse’s recent campaign includes a win at Royal Ascot, indicating a high level of class. However, his most recent effort was a disappointing 16th place out of 18 in the Golden Mile at Goodwood. If English Oak can rediscover the form that earned him the Ascot victory, his superior rating and experience over the distance could allow him to dominate the field despite the weight penalty.
**Thunder Roar** has seen his official rating drop back to 93 after briefly rising to 100. This adjustment reflects his recent performances, which include a win at Ayr last September.
The reduction in weight may prove advantageous, as the horse will now carry a more suitable burden relative to his current ability. Thunder Roar’s connections will be hoping that the lighter assignment will enable him to replicate his earlier success and contend for a place in the prize money.
**Mr Professor**, the 2024 Lincoln winner, makes his third start for trainer Kevin Philippart de Foy. He comes to Ripon after finishing second at Kempton, indicating a level of consistency in his recent outings. The colt’s proven ability to handle different track conditions and his recent placing suggest that he could be a strong finisher in the race, especially if the pace suits his running style.
**Revelance** heads the field in the valuable Chepstow Mile Series Final Handicap, carrying the top weight but facing a 4‑pound increase from her previous assignment. The race offers a purse of just over £20,000 for the winner, adding significant incentive. Revelance earned her place in the final by winning the Chepstow Mile Series Qualifier at the same venue in early August, delivering a comfortable performance under jockey Eddy Greatrex.
In that qualifier, she beat **Nakaaha**, who now carries a seven‑pound advantage over Revelance, a sizable swing that could impact the final outcome. The weight difference will be a critical factor to watch as the two mares contest the finish. **Spirit Of The Bay** captured victory at Ripon in July and subsequently produced a credible third‑place effort in the aforementioned Chepstow Mile Series race. His recent form indicates a horse that can handle both sprint and middle distances, making him a versatile entrant in the upcoming handicap.
Additional runners include **Rating**, **Too Much Trevor**, and **Redhot Whisper**, each of which has secured a win at Ripon earlier in the season. Their recent successes on the same surface and over comparable distances mean they cannot be dismissed lightly.
While they may not be the top‑rated horses in the field, their familiarity with the track and proven winning ability give them a realistic chance of placing or even challenging for the trophy. Overall, the two‑year‑old trophy at Ripon promises a competitive mix of unbeaten juveniles, seasoned winners, and horses stepping up in class. Viewers can anticipate a tactical race where weight assignments, recent form, and course familiarity will all play pivotal roles. The broadcast on Sky Sports Racing will provide live commentary and insight, allowing fans to follow the unfolding drama from start to finish.
Whether you are rooting for the unbeaten **Rogue Jewel**, the seasoned **English Oak**, or any of the other capable contenders, the day’s program offers plenty of excitement and a chance to see emerging talent in British flat racing.