Big Evs Primed for Redemption at Nunthorpe Stakes: Mick Appleby Eyes Track Record as Rivalry with Asfoora Resumes
Mick Appleby has hinted that York's track record might be in jeopardy as Big Evs looks to move past last year's setbacks in the Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes.
Although Big Evs celebrated a win on the same track and over the same distance earlier this season, his otherwise impressive two-year-old campaign had one notable flaw in this race, where he finished near the back, beating only two other horses.
Aside from that one underwhelming performance, Big Evs has enjoyed an exemplary career on the track, and he returns to York on a high note following his thrilling victory in the King George Stakes at Goodwood.
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BIG EVS narrowly edged out Asfoora in a thrilling finish to win the Group 2 King George Qatar Stakes.
Another major victory for @MickApplebyUK's standout horse 🟥🟦@q_rec | @qatarairways #QatarGoodwoodFestival #GloriousGoodwood #GoodwoodRaces pic.twitter.com/BbEPDaG0qZ
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 2, 2024
'He has recovered superbly from Goodwood and is now in fantastic condition,' said Appleby.
'He's positioned in stall 14 out of 14, and I'm unsure if that's advantageous or not. At this point, it's hard to say if it will benefit him,'
'It’s a different track with unique conditions compared to Goodwood. We'll have to wait and see what transpires, but I anticipate a very rapid race. If the ground stays fast, I wouldn’t be shocked if the track record falls.'
Tom Marquand, the jockey of Big Evs, is optimistic that his mount is ready to put last year's disappointments behind them as they prepare for the third clash with Australian star Asfoora.
Indeed, the 26-year-old rider believes that Knavesmire presents the perfect backdrop for Big Evs to gain the upper hand in the sprinting race, which has added an intriguing narrative to the division.
"Asfoora had the upper hand at Ascot, and to be honest, if we were heading back there, I'd be a bit apprehensive because it's a tough five furlongs," Marquand remarked while talking about the British Champions Series event.
Default response due to error Default response due to error ```htmlThroughout their extended stay in the British summer, Asfoora and her team have greatly enhanced the sprinting division.
``` Default response due to error Default response due to error Default response due to error'We’re genuinely thrilled to head up to York, a destination we’ve eagerly anticipated throughout our preparations. This is our grand final, and everything has gone smoothly so far—hopefully, that continues.
Default response due to error Default response due to errorDefault response due to error Default response due to error Default response due to error Default response due to errorIt was a remarkable experience watching Asfoora race at @Goodwood_Races today. The racing was top-notch, and the venue was breathtaking. Congratulations to @MickApplebyUK and the team behind Big Evs. We're looking forward to continuing the rivalry at @yorkracecourse. pic.twitter.com/KQRR6UjUNc
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Alongside the reliable Believing, who is under the guidance of trainer George Boughey, the field is further strengthened with the inclusion of Bradsell, a dual Royal Ascot winner who achieved a third-place finish last year.
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The competition at Deauville was robust but fell short of Group One classification. We remain optimistic about his performance. Positioned in stall three, we are hopeful for a good pace nearby and minimal rainfall.
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