Architect Tips turns his attention to a big Saturday of racing on ITV, with York taking centre stage for the prestigious Ebor Handicap.
15:35 York
Willie Mullins’ HIPOP DE LOIRE (best price 7/2) ran the most remarkable race when fifth in this race last year and is fancied to make amends.
I’m convinced he would have won had he not been denied a clear run multiple times when trying to mount a challenge.
Even after having the door slammed in his face twice, as well as being forced to switch wide around the field, he surged home to be nearest the finish.
It seems like Willie Mullins has campaigned him with a view to this race again and he’s only 3lb higher this time, which seems fairly lenient.
His only start on the Flat since resulted in a fourth-place finish in a Listed event before winning over hurdles at Galway.
If the eight-year-old does get a clear run of things, with Colin Keane retained from last year, then compensation could await him.
Bet442
MAJESTIC WARRIOR (best price 14/1) has won three of his four starts and looked so good on handicap/seasonal debut at Thirsk last time out that he must be considered a player off a low weight.
James Tate’s five-year-old candidate has low mileage on the clock and it’s fascinating to see him pitched into this competitive event after less than a handful of starts.
He’s drawn wide, but Rossa Ryan will be alert to the task ahead and I fancy his mount to handle the step up in grade well and run a big race with five places widely on offer.
15.35 - HIPOP DE LOIRE (7/2 generally) 3 POINTS WIN
15.35 - MAJESTIC WARRIOR (14/1 generally, 5 places) 1 POINT EACH-WAY
