Hope of Acklam

Friday debuts for Hope of Acklam and Pivotal Star at Thirsk



Friday debuts for Hope of Acklam and Pivotal Star at Thirsk


Posted: 15.09 • 12 Aug 2026 • News


The six furlong Ray And Eileen McLean Memorial British EBF Maiden Stakes (GBB Race) will see debuts for two of our juveniles at Thirsk on Friday.

Hope Of Acklam is owned by Maxwell Morrison and also named after his home village, following in the wake of his staying handicapper Spirit Of Acklam. Hope Of Acklam is by Calyx, who was a high class sprinter, and was bought from Tattersalls October Yearling Sale in 2025.

Pivotal Star, despite his name, isn't by Pivotal! He's a son of Ubettabelieveit and an own brother to our three-year-old Star Noir. He'll be ridden by Billy Garritty.

Our newcomers have it all to do in this race, as the 100-rated Final Objective sets the standard from those who have raced. He was beaten two lengths in the Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and looks a horse with plenty of talent. Connections have discarded the headgear that he carried on his first three outings. A €55,000 purchase as a yearling, he made his racing debut with a hood and was gelded before he saw a racecourse.


Thirsk on Friday
17.33
(11)
 Hope of Acklam 4
British EBF Maiden Stakes
Joanna Mason
17.33
(2)
 Pivotal Star 8
British EBF Maiden Stakes
Billy Garritty