Despite the quick ground I think COPPER KNIGHT is weighted to strike in the opener at his beloved York. I think his two runs this season have been pipe openers and as a consequence he has dropped to a low mark. Although his legs are getting a little bit older I hope he still retains enough ability to defy a mark of 88.
The Hambleton handicap looks wide open this year but I think last year's winner CRUYFF TURN will certainly have a part to play in proceedings from a low draw. Tim Easterby says he isn't in quite the same form as last year but I'd say that's because he hasn't had him tuned up just yet. A run in the Thirsk Hunt Cup will have put him bang on for this and I can see him giving it a bold show from up in the van.
A bit further down in the handicap is EILEAN DUBH who seems to have struck up an affinity with Knavesmire. Such a course record has to be respected and I can see him playing a part in proceedings if a wide draw isn't too much of a hindrance.
I doubt you will see Frankie Dettori ride many handicappers this season so the fact he is jocked up on BALTIC VOYAGE in the last today might give you an indication about his chance. Ralph Beckett's 3 year old shaped as if this sort of trip will suit when running in some hot juvenile races last season. All of his form stacks up and his 5th at Newmarket can be marked up as he made some serious gains late on against some tidy horses.A mark of 84 would certainly underestimate him if he is ready to roll first time out.
York 1.50 – Copper Knight
York 3.00 – Cruyff Turn / Eilean Dubh
York 5.20 – Baltic Voyage
