As the sun rises on May 17, 2025, horse racing fans are in for a treat with a thrilling schedule at both Newbury and Newmarket. These two iconic tracks set the stage for a day where the equine athletes promise to captivate us, with ITV Racing broadcasting all seven races. The crown jewel of the day, the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, beckons later in the afternoon.
Newbury’s Unmissable Action
The first race at Newbury, starting at 12.50pm, features the Group 3 Aston Park Stakes over 1 mile 4 furlongs. With familiar faces returning, fans will remember Courage Mon Ami, the 2023 Ascot Gold Cup victor. Nonetheless, the watchful eye turns to Al Aasy, seeking repeat glory from 2021. Despite a veteran’s 3lb penalty, his victory in the Gordon Richards Stakes this season is a testament to his enduring vigor.
Newmarket’s Early Showings
Meanwhile, at Newmarket, the Class 3 Handicap at 1.05pm presents Waleefy. A promising Galileo progeny, this stout-hearted horse steps up from a lackluster Goodwood reappearance. He’s a horse of impressive pedigree, having brotherly ties to Baaeed and Hukum, and his lineage suggests potential yet to fully bloom.
The Carnarvon Stakes
Back in Newbury at 1.25pm, the Carnarvon Stakes (Listed, 6f) has drawn eager anticipation as a precursor to the Royal Ascot. Ides Of March, boasting a strong title from his two-year-old days, looks formidable. His recent second position at Navan, despite being on less-than-ideal ground, indicates a readiness to seize the day on his preferred quicker surface.
Newmarket Afternoon Drama
At 1.40 pm, Fondo Blanco takes on the Class 4 Handicap over 7f at Newmarket. The horse has shown a steady advancement in earlier races, narrowly missing victory at Doncaster yet hinting at potential unleashed with the longer trip.
London Gold Cup Reckoning
Genealogy makes his presence felt in the 2.00pm London Gold Cup at Newbury. As a hefty investment from the yearling sales, this horse possesses both the physical stature and potential to transcend his juvenile prowess, underlined by recent performances in esteemed races.
The Class 4 Handicap at Newmarket
Mythical Guest, racing at 2.15pm, tackles Newmarket’s Class 4 Handicap. With past triumphs at this very course, the horse’s consistent displays over 1 mile 2 furlongs furnish a solid case for superiority in this slightly shorter challenge.
The Prestigious Lockinge Stakes
The epitome of the day’s racing arrives with the Lockinge Stakes at 2.35pm in Newbury. A battle of titans, last year’s Guineas headliners Notable Speech and Rosallion confront once more. Yet, in the racing world, surprises abound, and Lead Artist, despite his longer odds, holds more than just an outsider’s chance. As a well-bred marvel, he stands on the brink of first-time Group 1 competition, encouraged by his stable’s unwavering faith.
This day is not just about the races but the vibrant tapestry of horse flesh, skill, and the aged wisdom shaping every stride. With the FA Cup Final following the racing on ITV1, sports fans truly revel in a feast of entertainment.
