Niven can prove he’s one Clever Cookie by landing the Ebor
THE final day of York’s Ebor meeting features the richest handicap in Europe and the festival’s punting highlight, the Betfred Ebor (3:50pm). Such a prize always draws a high-class field, to the extent that the race has even come to be considered a trial for the Melbourne Cup.
A trainer vying to win this lucrative prize is Yorkshireman Peter Niven, who saddles CLEVER COOKIE. The six-year-old has been a revelation for his connections since switching codes, having recorded two victories on the Knavesmire, one of them a dead heat over the Ebor distance.
The gelding’s most recent loss came at too short a distance and so the step back up in trip suits as well as the ground should the forecast rain arrive. A win for this local handler would make a great story, with the small yard standing a major chance of winning a very prestigious race. Take the 8/1 on offer with Star Sports and share in the fairytale.
Pallasator is a justifiable favourite but market leaders have a notably poor record in this race with only four obliging since 1978. Punters have not been deterred, however, backing him into clear favouritism over the past few weeks. Mighty Yar and Bold Sniper also appeal but Clever Cookie will take all the beating.
Earlier on the card, FARRAAJ looks poised to take the Group Three Strensall Stakes (2:05pm) for the Roger Varian team. The son of Dubai Destination has been in excellent form this season and deserves a crack at this black type contest.
Having missed the York Stakes last month, the five-year-old should get his ground here, while receiving weight from some smart horses in Custom Cut and Graphic, means he is bound to go very close.
At Goodwood, the Group Two Celebration Mile (3:30pm) is the Sussex track’s highlight. HORS DE COMBAT was last seen being headed close home by a progressive type at the same track. That form gives him a good chance here for James Fanshawe, with Captain Cat the biggest threat.
Receiving five pounds from his elders can give Hors De Combat the edge, as long as a decent pace is set to suit the colt’s hold up style.
Another who fared well in defeat on his latest start is AMERICAN HOPE who goes in the 32 Red Stakes (2:55pm). Trained by Mike Murphy, this Lemon Drop Kid colt was only pipped in the final strides at Ascot, despite being keen early on. Dropping back in trip should solve that problem and see American Hope much stronger at the finish, coping comfortably with his five pound rise.
Pointers…
FARRAAJ 2:05pm York
AMERICAN HOPE e/w 2:55pm Goodwood
HORS DE COMBAT 3:30pm Goodwood
CLEVER COOKIE e/w 3:50pm York