Ripon Racecourse staged an entertaining seven-race card on Thursday, 18 June, with Ladies’ Day providing a colourful backdrop to an afternoon of competitive action. From staying handicaps to promising novice contests, racegoers were treated to a mixture of established performers and emerging talent, while several jockeys produced notable rides across the card.
The opening contest, the Ripon Racecourse Ladies’ Derby Handicap Stakes over 1m4f18y, went the way of Pride of Nepal, ridden by amateur jockey Miss Sarah Bowen. Competing in the Class 6 event restricted to female amateur riders, Pride of Nepal displayed admirable stamina and determination to secure victory. Bowen judged the pace effectively throughout the extended trip before asking her mount for a decisive effort in the closing stages. The success provided an ideal start to the afternoon and highlighted the rider’s composure under pressure.
The second race, the Live For Today Best Dressed Gentleman EBF Restricted Novice Stakes over six furlongs, featured several unexposed youngsters looking to make their mark. It was Persazz (IRE) who emerged on top under Luke Morris. The juvenile travelled smoothly throughout and showed a smart turn of foot when challenged in the final furlong. Morris timed his challenge perfectly, guiding the youngster to a convincing success. The performance suggested Persazz possesses considerable potential and could progress to stronger company as the season develops.
The Grantley Hall Handicap Stakes over 1m1f178y produced another competitive contest. Yermanthere (IRE), partnered by local favourite David Allan, rewarded supporters with a determined victory. Settled comfortably during the early stages, the gelding moved into contention approaching the final two furlongs and responded gamely when asked for maximum effort. Allan’s familiarity with the Ripon circuit proved valuable as he steered the horse through a challenging finish to secure the win.
One of the feature events of the afternoon, the Class 2 Ripon Races Ladies’ Day Handicap over six furlongs, attracted a strong field of experienced sprinters. The race belonged to Dark Cloud Rising, who delivered an impressive display under Mark Winn. Travelling strongly throughout, Dark Cloud Rising showed plenty of speed when the field quickened and powered clear in the final stages. The victory represented another notable success for the progressive sprinter and demonstrated the horse’s ability to compete effectively at a higher level.
Attention then turned to the Masons Gin “Who Dares, Gins” Novice Stakes over a mile. The contest showcased some promising middle-distance prospects, with Eklleem producing a polished performance under Jason Hart. After settling comfortably behind the leaders, Eklleem moved smoothly into contention entering the straight. Once asked to accelerate, the horse quickly asserted and maintained the advantage all the way to the line. The manner of victory suggested that further success could be on the horizon, particularly as distances increase later in the campaign.
The sixth race of the afternoon, the Napoleons Casino and Restaurant Leeds Handicap over six furlongs, provided another closely fought finish. Liosa (IRE), ridden by Kevin Stott, came out on top after a strong late challenge. Stott kept his mount within striking distance throughout before producing a well-timed run inside the final furlong. The pair showed resilience and determination to edge ahead where it mattered most, giving connections a deserved victory in the Class 6 contest.
The card concluded with the Your Harrogate Ladies’ Day Handicap over a mile. Trucial Pearl, partnered by Joanna Mason, rounded off the meeting with an accomplished performance. Racing prominently from an early stage, Trucial Pearl travelled comfortably and appeared full of running as the field entered the home straight. Mason gradually increased the pressure, and the horse responded willingly to draw clear and secure victory. The success ensured the meeting ended on a high note for both rider and connections.
Ladies’ Day once again proved to be one of the highlights of the Ripon calendar, attracting a large crowd eager to enjoy both the racing and the social occasion. The day’s programme combined competitive handicaps with informative novice events, giving racegoers plenty to appreciate throughout the afternoon.
Among the standout performances, Dark Cloud Rising’s victory in the feature sprint and Eklleem’s promising novice success were particularly noteworthy. Pride of Nepal’s determined effort in the opening race also set a positive tone for the meeting, while Trucial Pearl’s closing success provided a fitting finale.
The afternoon showcased the depth of talent among jockeys and horses alike, with several riders delivering tactically astute performances. Luke Morris, David Allan, Jason Hart, Kevin Stott and Joanna Mason all played key roles in guiding their mounts to victory, while amateur rider Sarah Bowen enjoyed a memorable success in the opening contest.
As the summer racing season continues, several winners from this Ripon card will undoubtedly be followed with interest. Whether stepping up in class or pursuing further opportunities at similar levels, Thursday’s victors demonstrated qualities that suggest they can remain competitive in the weeks ahead.
Ripon’s Ladies’ Day once again delivered a memorable blend of sporting action and atmosphere, ensuring racegoers departed having witnessed an afternoon packed with excitement, competitive racing and several performances of genuine promise.
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.