"Big Evs Poised for Redemption in York's Nunthorpe Stakes"

Mick Appleby has hinted that York's track record might be under threat as Big Evs aims to redeem himself in the Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes after last year's disappointment.

Despite winning on this course earlier in the season, Big Evs' only blemish in his impressive two-year-old campaign occurred in this very race, finishing ahead of just two competitors.

Returning to York with a significant boost from his thrilling victory in the King George Stakes at Goodwood, Big Evs looks to continue his stellar career.

JUST 🫣

𝑩𝑰𝑮 𝑬𝑽𝑺 clings on from the fast-finishing Asfoora in a cracking finish to the Group 2 King George Qatar Stakes.

Another big prize for @MickApplebyUK's stable star 🟥🟦@q_rec | @qatarairways#QatarGoodwoodFestival #GloriousGoodwood #GoodwoodRaces pic.twitter.com/BbEPDaG0qZ

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 2, 2024

'He came out of Goodwood really well and he is in good form,' said Appleby.

'He is drawn 14 of 14, so I'm not sure if that is going to be a good or a bad draw. Whether it will work in his favour or not, I don't know.

'It's a different track and different circumstances (to Goodwood). What will be will be and I think it is going to be a very fast race. I think if it stays quick ground, I wouldn't be surprised if the track record gets broken.'

Big Evs' jockey, Tom Marquand, is also confident that his ride is ready to put last year's performance behind him as he gears up for another bout against Australian star Asfoora.

In fact, the 26-year-old believes that Knavesmire is the ideal venue for Big Evs to gain the upper hand in this intriguing sprinting rivalry.

'Asfoora beat us at Ascot, and if we were going back there I think I'd be pretty scared of her as it's a stiff five,' explained Marquand ahead of this British Champions Series event.

'But we turned the form around when we beat her at Goodwood and I think York, as a speed track, will favour him more than her.

'I know she's 6lb better off here and we only beat her a short head, but I don't think it's as straightforward as that and with a bit of luck we'll come out on top again.'

Asfoora and her team have been a welcome addition to the sprinting ranks during their extended stay for the British summer.

'It was billed as a bit of a mundane year for sprinters so I like to think her presence has added a bit of colour to things,' said trainer Henry Dwyer.

'We're pretty excited to get up there and we've been very much looking forward to York throughout the entire preparation. This is our grand final, and everything has gone well so far—hopefully, it will continue.

'There is no doubt she is in great order and she is really as good as she can be. It's the best I've ever seen her look, and generally that translates to good runs. That was the case at Goodwood and I think she's a little bit fitter for this run, so I think we are right where we need to be.'

Only a short head separated Asfoora and Big Evs at Goodwood. Despite the fierce on-track rivalry, the two teams have formed a bond off the track, embracing their sporting competition.

Another amazing experience having Asfoora run @Goodwood_Races today. First class racing and fun in the most beautiful location one could imagine. Congrats to @MickApplebyUK and connections of Big Evs, we look forward to renewing the rivalry @yorkracecourse pic.twitter.com/KQRR6UjUNc

— Henry Dwyer Racing (@HDwyerRacing) August 3, 2024

'The Big Evs team, the owners, and Mick the trainer are lovely people,' continued Dwyer.

'We managed to have a drink with them after the race at Goodwood, congratulating and commiserating with them. I look forward to catching up with them again and hopefully we get to turn the tables on them.'

Defending champion Live In The Dream made headlines last year by giving trainer Adam West and jockey Sean Kirrane a fairytale victory. Returning to the Knavesmire for another attempt has always been the primary goal for 2024.

Alongside the consistent Believing, trained by George Boughey, they add further intrigue to an already deep competition. This contest also features dual Royal Ascot winner Bradsell, who finished third last year.

Archie Watson's star returned from nearly a year off the track with an impressive performance at Deauville earlier this month, and his connections are hopeful for another strong showing.

'I've spoken to Archie and he says the horse is in great form,' said Oliver St Lawrence, racing manager to Fawzi Nass of Bahrani owners Victorious Racing.

'Hopefully he can acquit himself well. Hollie (Doyle) was really happy with him at Deauville and thought he was back.

'The Deauville opposition was good, but it was not Group One standard. Hopefully he can put his best foot forward. He's drawn in stall three so hopefully there is some pace around him and not too much rain.'

Ed Bethell's Regional is another Group One winner in the mix, and alongside fellow course and distance victors Starlust (Ralph Beckett) and Clarendon House (Robert Cowell), they bring valuable York form to the race.