Talk Of New York Can Return to Winning Ways

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 25, 2026

Talk Of New York is returning from a 56-day break to compete in the Group Two Betway Joel Stakes at Newmarket, aiming to reinforce his position among top milers. This race serves as a critical test for the colt to regain form and re-establish himself as a contender in major mile events this season.

Talk Of New York is set to compete in the Group Two Betway Joel Stakes at Newmarket after a 56-day break, aiming to reaffirm his status as a top miler. The Godolphin colt showed promise earlier this season with a career-best third-place finish behind Bow Echo and Gstaad in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot in June. However, his recent run at Goodwood saw him struggle to overcome a difficult position and finish behind Shayem in a Group Three contest.

The Betway Joel Stakes offers Talk Of New York an opportunity to demonstrate that he remains a competitive contender at the mile distance. The 3-year-old son of Wootton Bassett has shown resilience and potential but will need to produce a strong performance to re-enter the conversation for major mile races at Newmarket.

Meanwhile, Juddmonte Farms is represented by the unbeaten Spirited Gesture in the Group Two Betway Rockfel Stakes. Trained by John and Thady Gosden, the filly is stepping up after two impressive novice wins. Spirited Gesture, a sister to Calyx, debuted victoriously on the July Course and followed that with a commanding win at Newcastle at odds of 1-6. Connections believe the filly has the potential to develop into a Classic contender.

The day's earlier racing card features ALOBAYYAH, who is set for the 1:15 race and may return to winning form following a recent run at Haydock where she was impeded while racing for room. Trainer Roger Varian aims for a double later in the afternoon with SUMMERSON and KOKBASTAU at 1:50 and 3:35, respectively. KOKBASTAU arrives in strong form with three consecutive wins and is testing Listed class for the first time.

Over at Worcester, LIKEWHATYOUSEE stands out as a strong contender in the Brush Hurdle Series Final at 2:40. The horse comes from the successful Jonjo and AJ O’Neill stable and appears well placed to make a significant impact. In the Chase Final at 2:05, Dan Skelton’s Palamon is also expected to chase a maiden win for the season.

Overall, the day's fixtures showcase promising talent across both flat and jump racing, with several horses poised to make strong statements ahead of the autumn racing calendar.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.