Pep Talking

The partnership with jockey Gavin Sheehan has been particularly fruitful. When Sheehan takes the reins, Pep Talking wins roughly two in every five races—4 winners from 10 rides together. That kind of consistency between horse and rider is no accident; it suggests they understand each other, that Sheehan knows how to get the best out of this horse when it matters. Trainer Billy Aprahamian, based at Towcester in Northamptonshire, has the horse in good form. His yard has sent out 12 winners this season, and Pep Talking has played its part: it won most recently at Uttoxeter on 15 July, just six weeks ago.

The recent form is encouraging. Looking at the last six races, Pep Talking has been competitive throughout—two wins, four places, no runs without a finish in the first few. That kind of consistency, combined with the fact that the horse raced just a day ago and is still active, suggests it remains a genuine threat every time it goes to post at the right level. For a horse of its age, still winning and placing regularly, Pep Talking has found a comfortable niche where it can continue to compete and win.