The first of four fantastic days of racing on York’s Knavesmire comes up on Wednesday afternoon (1.45pm-4.50pm). The highlight is the Group 1 Juddmonte International, where Ghaiyyath bids to continue a super season.
1.45 – Sky Bet And Symphony Group Handicap (5½f)
A 22-runner sprint to gets things started and this will be tough to solve. MAGIC J didn’t get home having been too keen at Ascot last time but his previous Sandown success was a culmination of some excellent efforts and, should the new blinkers have an calming effect, he may get Oisin Murphy off to a flyer on what can be a big day for the champ.
Jawwaal is a very obvious danger, while the returning visor may help Muscika have a say for David O’Meara at a decent price.
Tip: Magic J @ 15/2
2.15 Tattersalls Acomb Stakes (Group 3, 7f)
Some smart looking juveniles here stepping into Group 3 company, with four of them having won their only starts. The two that struck most in those winning debuts were CLOUDBRIDGE and Royal Scimitar.
Both have seen their form boosted since and preference sits with Charlie Appleby’s Godolphin inmate, who drew away on debut at Leicester from a rival with experience. The yards’ two-year-olds are strong and this is within his compass.
Tip: Cloudbridge @ 6/4
2.45 – Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes (Group 2, 1m4f)
PYLEDRIVER beat Mogul at Royal Ascot when winning the King Edward VII Stakes and did so in ready fashion. The latter has improved since and is a major threat after his Glorious Goodwood win, where Highland Chief (second) and Subjectivist (third) were close behind; while Darain is unbeaten and intriguing upped in class here by John Gosden.
Still, at the odds, William Muir’s challenger seems to be overlooked. He didn’t relish Epsom last time but should go well on this track and his Ascot effort gives him excellent credentials.
Tip: Pyledriver @ 10/1
3.15 – Juddmonte International Stakes (Group 1, 1m2f)
Five runners and a real Group 1 treat in store. The front-running Ghaiyyath has won a pair of top-level contests this summer and seems the finished product now at five-year-old. He’s a worthy favourite, while six-time Group 1 winner Magical and Prince of Wales’s Stakes winner Lord North bring real spice to this.
So, too, does 2,000 Guineas winner KAMEKO. Things did not go to plan in The Derby at Epsom (favourite) but he salvaged pride late in the race after the bird had flown. The Sussex Stakes was, if anything, even more frustrating since.
He was travelling with a lot of purpose under Oisin Murphy but couldn’t get room to challenge and lost his race in strides. This small field and big track should alleviate any traffic concerns and it may be that a mile and a quarter is perfect for him.
Tip: Kameko @ 4/1
3.45 – Sky Bet Handicap (2m)
After winning a Goodwood maiden over 1m6f on his third start for John Gosden last year, MAKE MY DAY would wait 393 days for his next action and changed stables in that time.
Now with Ralph Beckett, he overcame his layoff and defied the handicapper to win here last month over 1m4f. A 6lb rise may not stop this promising son of Galileo from doubling up in handicap company with this longer journey favourable.
Tip: Make My Day @ 4/1
4.20 – Sky Bet Fillies’ Sprint Handicap (5f)
A Group 3 at Ascot was beyond DANCIN INTHESTREET last month but her previous form in very competitive handicaps was laced with promise. William Haggas’ string remain in super order and, with sights lowered again, the Muhaarar filly can deliver a deserved first win of the season.
At a big price, Dandy’s Beano could run well for a Kevin Ryan/Kevin Stott alliance enjoying a fine summer as her recent Haydock second has been advertised since.
Tip: Dancin Inthestreet @ 2/1
4.50 – Sky Bet Nursery (6f)
Disappointing to find Running Back a late absentee and she’s one to monitor for again. LINE OF DEPARTURE was behind Acomb contender Royal Scimitar in that Newbury novice last month and is 2-2 in nurseries since.
He had something in hand at Ascot last time and the latest 5lb rise in the ratings might not prevent a hat-trick.
Tip: Line Of Departure @ 7/1
*All odds correct at time of writing
