Top Notch looking for York success

The trainer of Top Notch Tonto is keeping fingers crossed the weather will be kind to him this week ahead of the Sky Bet York Stakes.

The big chestnut is set to return to the Knavesmire on Saturday and is hoping for the same result as on his last visit when he won the Ganton Stakes, breaking a long losing run whilst doing so.

The five-year-old has had a tough couple of seasons since bursting onto the scene two years ago but that win last month has raised hopes that he is getting back to somewhere near his best form.

Trainer Brian Ellison told the Yorkshire Post: “I just thought he was very impressive (last time). He showed a great turn of foot.

“It’s down to the weather, really. As long as it’s nice, good ground – it doesn’t have to be soft or anything. The plan is to run, anyway.

“He’ll be declared, put it that way – but we’ll have a look on Friday night as I’ve got runners there.”