Thunder Run

His breakthrough came at Thirsk in July 2024, but it was his progression to York that has caught the attention of trainer K. R. Burke. At seven furlongs to a mile—the sort of middle distances where horses often find their rhythm—Thunder Run has won two of four races, a 50% win rate that suggests he has finally found his ideal conditions. His most recent victory in May this year showed a horse beginning to mature. Burke's post-race words spoke to a horse still raw and prone to taking charge too early, burning energy when he should be conserving it, but on that day the step up in trip allowed him to settle and race more smoothly. The trainer believes that once Thunder Run learns to be more economical, he could reach Listed or Group company—a tier above where he currently competes.

The recent form tells a different story, though. Thunder Run has not won in his last six races and was last seen finishing second just over a day ago. A return in the Lincoln earlier this year left him tired late on, and Burke suggests that experience was necessary groundwork. The trainer has mentioned the Wolferton as an ideal next target, implying Thunder Run is being pointed at a specific race rather than left to drift. Ridden most often by Clifford Lee, he has won once from five rides together—a modest partnership so far, but Burke's stable at Coverham in North Yorkshire is among the season's most prolific, having already sent out 145 winners. For a horse still finding his feet but showing genuine Class 2 ability at his best, Thunder Run remains a work in progress with serious potential.