Roger Varian’s gelding has a fine chance in the big-field handicap, the highlight of ITV4’s Saturday coverage
Andrea Atzeni has had to go to Newbury for a couple of nice rides but he could be feeling a bit wistful as he watches York’s John Smith’s Cup, as Fifth Position (2.30) has a fine chance in the big-field handicap, the highlight of ITV4’s Saturday coverage. A sizeable sort with a half-brother who jumps fences, he was crying out for a step up to this distance before scoring at Doncaster last month.
A bigger field and a stronger pace can help Roger Varian’s gelding take the step forward he needs here. It’s worth remembering the two horses who beat him on his seasonal return at Newcastle both won Royal Ascot handicaps next time.
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York 12.15 Nomadic Empire 12.45 Mews House 1.20 Tasaamuh 1.55 Universal Order (nb) 2.30 Fifth Position 3.05 Que Amoro 3.40 Make My Day 4.10 Royal Prospect
Newbury 12.30 Jaaizah 1.05 Maximal 1.40 Deise Blue 2.15 Method 2.50 Tomorrow's Dream 3.25 Virgin Snow 4.00 Tinto (nap) 4.30 Lalania 5.00 Casual Reply
Haydock 4.20 Sands Chorus 4.50 San Sebastian 5.20 Sound Of Iona 5.55 Autumn Flight 6.25 One Over Par 6.55 Constant 7.25 Space Walk 7.55 Hortzadar 8.25 Little Ted
Bath 4.35 The Golden Unicorn 5.05 Nibras Again 5.35 Dahik 6.05 Three Little Birds 6.35 City Walk 7.05 Songkran 7.35 Folie D'Amour 8.05 Earthly