After rallying behind Daryz in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, the Weekend Winners panel shifted its focus to Ascot’s historic Challenge Cup. The race, a heritage handicap over seven furlongs, has attracted a full field of eighteen entries, each hoping to make a mark on the prestigious meeting. Among the contenders, Thunder Call has emerged as the early market favorite, backed by the William Haggas stable. The horse’s odds of 11/4 reflect strong confidence from punters, although some analysts, including a panelist, feel the price may be a touch generous.
The commentator noted, “Thunder Call looks a little short at 11/4; I respect his ability but I’m not keen to overpay. I’m looking for a bit of a swing in the market.” Also in the mix are Moonfall, representing the partnership of Billy Loughnane and George Boughey, and the Royal Ascot winner Mezcala, who is hoping to add another accolade to his résumé. The race will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing at 3.35 pm on Saturday, giving fans the chance to watch the action as it unfolds. One of the panelists offered insight into the betting landscape, highlighting the form of a 20/1 outsider.
“He’s sitting around the 20/1 mark, but his recent performance at Ascot speaks volumes. He was runner‑up in the International Stakes carrying one pound less, and that is the form I’m most impressed by. He’s a genuinely high‑class horse and now has Toby Moore aboard, who will take a handy seven‑pound allowance – a factor that could be crucial to his chances.” The commentator added that the horse’s recent run behind Extremely Zain, who has since won again at York, further underlines his potential. The discussion turned to the tactical aspects of the Challenge Cup.
“It lives up to its name, this Challenge Cup, because it’s not easy!” one analyst exclaimed. “I thought Thunder Call was a bit short at 11/4, I respect his chances but didn’t want to play at that price. I thought I’d take a swing elsewhere. Richard Spencer has been quiet lately but has two good prospects here – Hawksbill and Two Tribes – which caught my eye.” Mezcala, the former Royal Ascot victor, received particular attention.
A panelist described the situation as “once more unto the breach, dear friends” for the gelding, expressing hope that the race would unfold favorably. “I just hope that Port Master gets a good run because I don’t see a lot of pace in this field, and it could become a bit messy. The track is rail‑off the straight to keep it fresh for Champions Day, and even though the field is smaller than usual, it can split into two groups, so we’ll see how it plays out.” The commentator reflected on Mezcala’s recent form, noting his performance in the Buckingham Palace Stakes.
“If he returns to that level of form from the Buckingham Palace Stakes, he has a wonderful chance. The race set up nicely for him down the rail; he got plenty of cover and did his best work late. He may have been a little lucky that the runner‑up was idling a touch, but if he replicates that effort, he’ll be right in the mix.
He ran well at the Leger meeting under the circumstances, and George Bass needs to keep him well covered.” Further analysis of Mezcala’s prospects highlighted his previous run at Doncaster, where a low draw (14) and an unfavourable running style hindered his chances. “I thought his Doncaster run was fair enough – low draws came to the fore that day and he was stuck in 14 with a style that didn’t help. I also felt he was perhaps found wanting at the 98‑pound mark, but he’s now been given a generous one‑pound allowance back.” The panelist concluded, “He’s still above his Royal Ascot‑winning mark, but back on this track and trip, with his old pal George Bass aboard, I like him at 15/2.” Beyond the immediate betting angles, the Challenge Cup offers a fascinating study in race‑craft and strategy. Seven furlongs at Ascot is a distance that demands a blend of speed and stamina, and the heritage handicap format means that weight assignments play a pivotal role.
Trainers often target this race to either showcase a rising star or to give a proven miler a new challenge. The field’s composition – a mix of seasoned handicappers, younger talent, and previous Group winners – ensures a dynamic contest where tactical positioning, pace judgment, and jockey skill will be decisive. The presence of high‑profile trainers such as William Haggas and the involvement of jockeys like Toby Moore add further intrigue. Moore’s seven‑pound allowance on the 20/1 outsider could tilt the balance, especially if the race unfolds with a bunched early pace that favours a late surge.
Meanwhile, seasoned hands like George Bass, who knows Mezcala’s quirks, may exploit the rail‑off straight to secure a favourable draw and cover. For viewers, the race promises excitement not just for the prize money but also for the implications on future meetings. A strong performance in the Challenge Cup can boost a horse’s handicap rating, opening doors to higher‑class contests later in the season, including potential entries in the prestigious Champion Stakes or even a return to Royal Ascot for a different distance. Fans can catch the live coverage on Sky Sports Racing, and for those who prefer on‑demand viewing, highlights and post‑race analysis will be available on the At The Races YouTube channel.
The Weekend Winners panel will continue to provide insights, betting tips, and expert commentary throughout the day, ensuring that both casual spectators and seasoned punters stay informed. In summary, the Challenge Cup at Ascot presents a compelling blend of seasoned talent, emerging prospects, and tactical nuance. With Thunder Call leading the market, Mezcala aiming to repeat his Royal Ascot success, and a host of other well‑rated runners in the mix, the race is set to deliver a thrilling spectacle for racing enthusiasts.
Whether you’re backing a favorite or looking for value in the longer odds, the panel’s analysis suggests that careful consideration of form, weight allowances, and jockey bookings will be key to making informed selections. The stage is set, the horses are in the gates, and the excitement is palpable – may the best horse win.