Sprinting stars meet for a third time at York on Friday.
High Stakes and Fierce Rivalries: York Set for Thrilling Friday Showdown
York's storied turf is set to be the stage for a gripping continuation of one of the season’s most anticipated sprinting rivalries. On Friday, the Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes will see the third installment of the electrifying duel between Asfoora and Big Evs. Both horses are poised to deliver a high-octane spectacle that promises to enthrall racing fans.
The Clash of Titans
In a dramatic twist earlier this summer, Henry Dwyer’s Asfoora bested Big Evs at Royal Ascot in the prestigious King Charles III Stakes, showcasing her blistering speed on a grand stage. However, the tide turned at Goodwood, where Mick Appleby’s Big Evs reclaimed the upper hand with a nail-biting finish in the King George Qatar Stakes. This Friday’s Nunthorpe will be their third showdown, and both trainers are primed for another thrilling encounter.
Contenders Galore
The Nunthorpe field is a blend of seasoned sprinters and rising stars. Believing, who finished third at Goodwood, is among the 14 contenders and promises to add depth to the race. Defending champion Live In The Dream, trained by Adam West, returns to defend his title, while Bradsell, last year’s third place finisher and recently impressive at Deauville, will also be a force to reckon with.
Adding further intrigue to the race are Regional from Ed Bethell and Starlust from Ralph Beckett, both of whom are course-and-distance winners. The Czech speedster Ponntos will be leading the pack with his signature front-running style, setting a fast pace that could shake up the field.
Gimcrack Stakes and More
The excitement doesn’t end with the Nunthorpe. Big Mojo, another Appleby-trained horse, will step up to six furlongs in the Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Gimcrack Stakes. Following a stunning victory in the Molecomb, Big Mojo is expected to be a strong contender.
Charlie Appleby’s Shadow Of Light will also be in the spotlight as he aims for a second win in three years in the Group Two Gimcrack. Meanwhile, The Strikin Viking, trained by Hamad Al Jehani, and Andesite from Karl Burke bring impressive course form to the table, adding further competition.
Lonsdale Cup to Close the Day
The card will be topped off with the Weatherbys Hamilton Lonsdale Cup, featuring a field of nine that includes Aidan O'Brien's Point Lonsdale, Willie Mullins' Vauban, and the previous winner Quickthorn, trained by Hughie Morrison. This race promises to be another highlight of the day, with each contender bringing their own form and flair to the track.
