Nick Luck
Nick Luck’s William Hill blog: Yorkshire Oaks could throw up Estrange result
William Hill ambassador Nick Luck casts his expert eye over day two of the York Ebor Festival.
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AMERICA QUEEN can take the opening Lowther Stakes on Day Two of the Ebor Festival (1.50). While Royal Fixation sets an undoubtedly high standard, Richard Hughes’s filly looked something out of the ordinary on her debut. Admittedly her rivals left something to be desired, but she looked a thorough professional and finished off with some purpose.
Check out Steve Mullington’s Day 2 York Ebor Festival preview here
ARDISIA might yet have more to offer in the big sales race, and is certainly a big enough price to be considered each way (2.25). He had valid excuses for going missing in the middle of the season, but put it all together when prominently ridden in a very strong nursery at York. There was no fluke about that, and the rhythm of six furlong race clearly suited much better. The in form trainer has taken the trouble to book Oisin Murphy.
LEADMAN might be the answer to the Clipper (3.00). It’s not an absolute guarantee that he will improve for a mile, but his last two efforts have strongly hinted that will be the case. His trainer does exceptionally well in these races, and this one is racing officially in advance of the handicapper in a race where most are well exposed.
ESTRANGE can surprise Minnie Hauk in the Yorkshire Oaks (3.35). Although some may fear the ground is too quick, times on Day One suggested it was more good than good to firm, which should be fine. Garden of Eden will surely make this a stern test, and that should ensure less likelihood of the muddling affair that nearly scuppered the selection last time.
LADY VIVIAN makes a bit of appeal in the Galtres (4.10). She acquitted herself with credit in a brutally run Ribblesdale, and will appreciate an ease in grade. She remains progressive, and her stable is in much better for than when she was last seen.
AMAZING JOURNEY might be one of the better bets of the day (4.45). A striking looking colt, he coped okay with the softened ground at Goodwood, but will be much more at home here. Furthermore he was quite unlucky not to win, and racing from a pound higher is not going to hinder his progress here.
BONUS TIME is still a fair price to take the last (5.20). Unexposed and improving, this sharp seven furlongs should suit well, and the stable is very selective when bringing horses to big festivals. Expect to see her on the sharp end throughout.
