York 3.10
By Irish Racing (MG)
York 3.10 - Handicap - 6 Furlongs - Class 2 - Soft - 22 run
On the basis of races yesterday it would seem middle to high is marginally preferred although a lot will depend on where the early pace is and if they all go for that pace a lot of luck in running is needed. I have focussed more middle to high than low, and hopefully that will prove the right call.
I narrowed my selections down to a short list of 8 of the 22 declared and from that think that the 10lbs extra for Magical Spirit, after it's Ayr win will be too much of a burden. Kynren is interesting, down in trip is worth trying but will surely need a frenetic pace and lots of luck in running to oblige. Bielsa lurks off a very interesting handicap mark and has been very disappointing so far this season, but lightly raced and fresh, if returning to form would have an excellent chance on best form.Lahore was 5th in this race last year off a mark of 97 in soft going and just the mark above 100 here puts me off today.
I've 4 left and reluctantly discard ROULSTON SCAR, who'd be reserve in case of a non runner from selections. Won last time out, has Course and Distance form and could be one with a bit of scope and still a bit unexposed.
My selections are-: COME FROM THE DARK who moves back up to 6 furlongs, looks to be a horse in form and another a bit less exposed and gets a good draw to run prominently and strike late on. SOLDIERS MINUTE has excellent Course and Distance form here, Drawn in 15, runner up and third this season in big field handicaps here off marks of 98 and 99, runs off 99, slight niggle about the Going but enough evidence to suggest it'll be no excuse when the chips are down. WISE COUNSEL was unlucky in running in the Ayr Gold Cup, I think you can mark that performance up a bit, Danny Tudhope rides for Clive Cox and ticks every box.
TIP - Come From The Dark / TRACKERS - Soldiers Minute + Wise Counsel