Sky Bet York Stakes (Group 2)

Off time: 15:15 | Winning time: 2m 20.36s

(3)

Passenger⁷⁸

Age: 4| Weight: 9-11| J: R Kingscote| T: Sir Michael Stoute| OR: 117| D

9/4

Quickly developed into a smart performer last year and hit the ground running with a terrific performance to make a winning return at Chester in May, breaking the track record in the process. Can land this before going back up to the top level.

Form: 1301-1

(2)

Alflaila³⁸

Age: 5| Weight: 9-8| J: Jim Crowley| T: Owen Burrows| OR: 118| CD

9/4

Classy sort who landed this last year and shaped as if retaining all of his ability when fourth to Auguste Rodin in Prince of Wales' Stakes at Ascot last month. Obvious player.

Form: 111/15-4

(4)

Royal Rhyme^t³⁸

Age: 4| Weight: 9-8| J: C Lee| T: K R Burke| OR: 113| D

9/2

Most progressive last season, bolting up in Goodwood handicap before following up in a Ayr listed race (1¼m). Outclassed three rivals in Brigadier Gerard at Sandown on return and creditable fifth in Prince of Wales' Stakes at Royal Ascot last time. Prefers it softer.

Form: 0115-15

(1)

King's Gambit³⁷

Age: 3| Weight: 8-13| J: Callum Shepherd| T: Harry Charlton| OR: 112| BF| D

5/2

Made a mark of 93 look woefully inadequate at Newbury on return and justified the jump up in class when an excellent second to Jayarebe in Hampton Court Stakes at Royal Ascot. Definite player.

Form: 812-12

Non-Runners

(5)

Ancient Rome¹⁴

Weight: 9-8| Age: 5

T: C Hills J: Non Runner

Forecasts

Alflaila (9/4), Passenger (9/4), King's Gambit (5/2), Royal Rhyme (9/2), Ancient Rome (16/1)

PASSENGER has looked highly progressive having adopted his trainer's typical patient approach and he's fancied to take this before contesting some of the Group 1s towards the end of the season. Last year's winner Allaila is an obvious danger and King's Gambit can't be ruled out given he's also on an upward curve.