After rallying behind Daryz in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, the Weekend Winners panel shifted its focus to Ascot’s Challenge Cup, a historic handicap over seven furlongs that attracted a maximum field of eighteen contenders. The early betting market placed Thunder Call, trained by William Haggas, as the frontrunner, but the panel’s analysis delved deeper into the form and prospects of several other runners, notably the Billy Loughnane‑George Boughey partnership on Moonfall and the Royal Ascot‑winning mare Mezcala.
The Challenge Cup will be broadcast live from Ascot at 3.35 pm on Saturday on Sky Sports Racing, offering viewers a chance to witness a tightly contested sprint that often produces surprising results. One of the panelists explained why the race lives up to its name, noting that the odds of 11/4 on Thunder Call seemed "mightily short". While acknowledging the horse’s ability, the commentator preferred to explore other options, especially after observing that Richard Spencer, who has performed well in similar events throughout the season, had two promising entries: Hawksbill and Two Tribes. The latter, in particular, captured the panelist’s interest.
Another segment of the discussion highlighted a horse hovering around the 20/1 mark, whose recent performance at Ascot suggested genuine potential. The horse had finished second in the International Stakes while carrying a pound less, a form line the panelist found compelling. With jockey Toby Moore slated to ride, the horse would receive a seven‑pound allowance—a factor deemed crucial for competitiveness.
The panelist also mentioned Ayr, noting that his recent form included a fourth‑place finish behind Extremely Zain, a runner who has since secured a convincing win at York. While acknowledging that the race might stretch Ayr’s stamina, the panelist expressed optimism that Moore’s booking could help the horse “run into the places.” The conversation then turned to Mezcala, with the panelist invoking the phrase "once more unto the breach, dear friends" to describe the mare’s upcoming challenge. Concerns were raised about the pace scenario, especially if Port Master were to dominate early, potentially turning the race into a chaotic affair.
The panelist reminded listeners that the straight track is often rail‑offed to preserve its condition for Champions Day, and that a reduced field can sometimes split into two groups, adding another layer of tactical complexity. Looking back at Mezcala’s recent form, the panelist recalled her performance in the Buckingham Palace Stakes, where she benefited from a favorable rail position and ample cover, allowing her to unleash her best effort in the closing stages.
Although the runner‑up appeared to be idling slightly, Mezcala’s finish was strong enough to suggest she could be close to winning again if she replicates that performance. Her run at the Leger meeting, despite less than ideal conditions, was also praised as a solid effort. The panelist urged trainer George Bass to ensure the mare is well‑covered, emphasizing the importance of a strong tactical plan.
Further confidence in Mezcala was expressed, noting that her previous Doncaster outing was hindered by a low draw (14) and an unfavourable running style. The panelist felt the mare may have been “found wanting” at a rating of 98 but appreciated the recent one‑pound concession she received. Even though she is still rated above her Royal Ascot‑winning mark, the combination of a familiar track, a suitable trip, and the experienced hand of George Bass behind the reins leads the panelist to back her at 15/2.
Overall, the panel’s analysis paints a picture of a race where the early favourite, Thunder Call, faces stiff competition from several well‑prepared horses with advantageous weight allowances and jockey bookings. Hawksbill, Two Tribes, the 20/1 outsider with a strong recent form, and the seasoned Mezcala each bring distinct strengths that could upset the market’s expectations. Viewers are encouraged to tune in to Sky Sports Racing for a live look at the action, and to follow the Weekend Winners show on the At The Races YouTube channel for a comprehensive post‑race breakdown.
For those who want to stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews, and feature stories, the Sky Sports Racing app offers a convenient way to receive real‑time updates directly on a mobile device. Whether you are a seasoned punter or a casual fan, the Challenge Cup promises an exciting sprint that could reshape the handicap landscape at Ascot and set the tone for the upcoming Champions Day meetings.