York 18th July

This not a proper ratings post please note, as I am not sufficiently up to date.

Here are just a few thoughts

1.45 York 12f

Only a few have recorded a decent rating here, and the top two have a similar profile.

ANTIGUA SUNRISE - Two good runs here, and similar at Haydock, so likes a flat track. Receiving plenty of weight from the top ones, and at its best could win. Just a question of whether the current mark, relative to the others, is a tad high?

CRACKENTORP - Runs his best races in big fields. Likes to drop in so draw not a problem. Whilst he has looked one-paced recently, that maybe the way the races have been run. Again, on his best form he could win this, and a strong gallop will help.

2.15 York 16f

SAMUEL - He has had a break since his first run for a year, so should not bounce??. Has by far the best rating here, and his last 2 runs shows 16f is not a problem. Given he was a a bit fresh first time out I can see him reversing the places with the two principals. Value around 7/1.

2.45 York 6f

If this was over 5f it might be an easier proposition, but at 6f the odd doubt creeps in.

TEMPLEMEADS - This is the obvious danger to all, given the way he won last time. However, another furlong and now up 2 grades does put the dampener on things. Clearly a very good horse ... but ... is he this good?

APPROVE - The most experienced horse in the field, and one that has done it at this level. Whilst his 6f 3rd in France last time may take more time to evaluate, he had the local favourite behind, it was a Group 2, and he stayed 6f. He won well at Ascot over the stiffer 5f, and yet he is 12/1 on Betfair? I suppose everybody is looking at the 'potential' of the newcomers, as well as the above's presence. Me, I take Approve on what he has done, which is not far short of what is required here. The others have got to be a whole lot better than they have shown so far.

3.25 York Ebor Handicap 14f

Tricky as ever, Dangerous Midge has a good rating here, but a big hike in the weights will make it very difficult. There are a lot who appear to have been aimed at the race with very light campaigns, and with Fortuni to take them a long at a real pace, it will take some winning.

ROSIKA - This was the one I thought looked good value at 20/1, but if it is fancied I guess that will not be around for long? A good ew though, trained by Stoute, ridden by Fallon, and well drawn ... every chance?

4.05 York 5f

Like most, I see Face The Problem as untouchable ... by the field I mean. It is as quick as anything out so far. It seems a doddle to ride and the track should suit. What more can I say?

4.40 York 8f

Tricky race, no conclusion.