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. This heritage handicap over seven furlongs has attracted a full slate of eighteen contenders, with Thunder Call emerging as the early market favorite for trainer William Haggas.
Also in the mix is Moonfall, representing the partnership of Billy Loughnane and George Boughey, while former Royal Ascot winner Mezcala is another strong contender. The race will be broadcast live from Ascot on Sky Sports Racing at 3:35 p.m. on Saturday. "The Challenge Cup truly lives up to its name – it’s a tough test," one pundit remarked.
"I thought Thunder Call was severely undervalued at 11/4. I respect his ability, but the price didn’t feel right, so I decided to take a swing elsewhere. Richard Spencer has performed well in these types of races throughout the season, even though he’s been quieter lately. He has two horses entered – Hawksbill and Two Tribes – both of which caught my eye." The commentary continued, highlighting a long‑shot that could surprise the field.
"There’s a runner priced around 20/1 whose form at Ascot is evident to anyone who watches. He finished second in the International Stakes carrying one pound less, and that performance stands out for me.
He’s a genuinely good horse and now has Toby Moore aboard, who will be taking a generous seven‑pound allowance – a factor that could be pivotal for his chances. The less we talk about Ayr, the better, but in the International he was behind Extremely Zain, who has since won again at York in impressive fashion." The analyst added, "It might be a race that stretches his limits, but Toby Moore’s booking is eye‑catching and I hope he can convert that into a placing." Sky Sports Racing encourages fans to stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews and features on their mobile platform. Turning to Mezcala, the panelist said, "It’s ‘once more unto the breach, dear friends’ for Mezcala.
I just hope Port Master gets a good run because the pace looks modest and the race could become a bit chaotic. Remember, they rail off the straight track to keep the day fresh for Champions Day, and even though the field is smaller than usual, it can still split into two groups – we’ll see how that plays out." He continued, "If Mezcala can return to the form he showed in the Buckingham Palace Stakes, he has a wonderful chance.
The race set‑up suits him on the rail; he had plenty of cover and did his best work late. He may have been a touch lucky that the runner‑up was idling a little, but if he replicates that performance, 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 confidence was expressed for Mezcala: "I’m still backing Mezcala and hoping everything goes his way. His Doncaster run last time was respectable – low draws came to the fore and he started from 14, a position that didn’t suit his running style. I also felt he was perhaps a shade under the 98‑pound mark, and he’s now been given a generous one‑pound allowance." The commentator concluded, "He’s still rated above his Royal Ascot‑winning level, but back on this track and with his old friend George Bass aboard, I like him at 15/2." Fans can watch the full Weekend Winners programme on the At The Races YouTube channel, where the panel will continue to dissect the form, weigh the odds and offer their insights ahead of the Challenge Cup.
The race promises a blend of seasoned campaigners, promising newcomers and a few dark horses, making it a compelling contest for punters and racing enthusiasts alike. With Thunder Call, Moonfall, Mezcala and several other talented runners vying for the prize, the outcome remains anyone’s guess, ensuring a thrilling showdown at Ascot.