Bahrain International Trophy Highlights Exciting Racing Friday

Friday is set to deliver an impressive display of both flat and jumps racing, highlighted by the Bahrain International Trophy. This exciting day also includes race meetings at Newcastle, Southwell, and Wolverhampton. All the action will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing, as fans eagerly anticipate whether Spirit Dancer, co-owned by the iconic Sir Alex Ferguson, can replicate the success of last year.

Spirit Dancer's victory in the Bahrain International Trophy last year brought back memories of Ferguson's legendary moments on the sidelines at Old Trafford. This time, the John and Thady Gosden-trained Lead Artist appears ready to put up a strong fight, having shown impressive form with Darley. At the same time, Charlie Appleby’s Nations Pride aims to make amends for his seventh-place result in 2022.

To heighten the excitement, Aidan O’Brien’s Point Lonsdale is reducing his distance by a mile following a challenging season that featured a victory in the Ormonde Stakes. Additionally, Alflaila, the winner of the York Stakes, is also in contention, while the Japanese challengers, Killer Ability and Yamanin Sympa, bring an international element to an already competitive lineup.

Set for 4:35 PM, the Bahrain International Trophy has swiftly established itself as a highlight in the flat racing calendar, and this year's edition is expected to be nothing short of spectacular.

At Newcastle, Sandy Thomson's Benson, a six-time hurdles champion, is aiming for his first victory over fences in the 1:20 PM Handicap Chase. Following a solid return at Hexham, he is anticipated to present a strong performance. Partnering with him is Richie McLernon on Coqolino, a reliable competitor who has finished as runner-up in his last two outings, as he attempts to secure his first win over fences.

The highlight of Southwell's card is the Best Odds Guaranteed At BetMGM Handicap Hurdle scheduled for 3:18 PM, featuring the impressive Barrons Land, who comes in hot off two consecutive wins at Worcester and Sedgefield. Additionally, Jennie Candlish's Froheretoeternity aims for a hat-trick in the mares' category at 1:55 PM, showcasing the strength of Southwell's undercard.

The evening racing moves to Wolverhampton, featuring the Boost Your Acca At BetMGM Handicap at 7:00 PM, where two in-form contenders seeking a hat-trick will go head-to-head. Michael Appleby’s Straight A, who narrowly won at Southwell last time out, is expected to perform well over the longer distance, while Ciotog comes in with two recent victories and has established all-weather credentials at this track. Risen Again, making his debut under the guidance of Alice Haynes, introduces an intriguing element of uncertainty to this exciting handicap finale.

As Spirit Dancer pursues victory at the forefront of an action-packed racing day, spectators are in for an unforgettable experience. From the international excitement of Bahrain to the challenging jumps racing at Newcastle and Southwell, along with the strategic contests on Wolverhampton's all-weather track, Friday promises a racing event that truly deserves a place on the world stage of the sport.