Pep Talking

The recent form tells an even better story. In its last 6 races, Pep Talking has won twice and been placed three more times, with just one blank in between. That is the kind of consistency that trainers dream about — and it culminated in a win at Chepstow just four weeks ago, meaning this horse is in form right now, not coasting on past glories. It also raced just yesterday, so whoever is watching this horse closely has plenty of fresh material to work with.

The partnership with jockey Gavin Sheehan is worth highlighting. In 8 races together, they have won 4 times — that is winning half the time, which by any measure is a remarkable record. When Sheehan is in the saddle, the message to opponents is fairly simple: you are probably going to lose. That kind of chemistry between horse and jockey does not happen by accident; it suggests a real understanding of how to get the best out of this animal.

At the yard in Towcester, trainer Billy Aprahamian has sent out 12 winners already this season, and Pep Talking is clearly one of his more reliable tools. The horse found its level competing in Class 5 races — which are the bread-and-butter contests that make up the backbone of British racing — and has thrived there, winning 5 from 11 at that level, nearly 1 in every 2 races. That 45% win rate in those races is the kind of number that makes opposing trainers groan when they spot the name in the entries.

The career began with a first win at Huntingdon in March 2024, and the horse has not looked back. Still racing at eight, still winning, and still placing when it does not win — Pep Talking is a horse that simply turns up and performs.