York’s Ebor Festival takes place later this month and one of the big races of the week is the Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes. It is one of just two top level races over the minimum trip on the calendar. Trainer James Tate is absolutely purring about the chances of his runner, Royal Aclaim and he can’t wait for the big day to arrive. Check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
James Tate’s three-year-old filly is unbeaten in three starts to date and is the current market leader at a general 2-1. She won the Listed City Walls Stakes over course and distance when last seen. That was an impressive display as she beat some very experienced rivals by two lengths on just her third start. The trainer had this to say about that performance: “She was by far the lowest rated in that Listed race she won and she’s unbeaten.”
Preparation for the race has gone to plan since as he also added: She’ll do a little bit of strong work this week and then we’ll ease off her in the last few days before the big race. Everything has gone very well so far.” All systems are go for the big race it seems as Tate couldn’t be happier.
Royal Aclaim has had this target since winning last time according to her trainer. Tate said: “The Nunthorpe has been the plan since she won the City Walls and, to be frank, we’ve just been counting down the days.” His excitement and confidence is uncontainable despite the significant step up in grade for this very inexperienced filly.
The hustle and bustle of a large field will be unlike anything she has seen before. A massive step forward will be required to win this which isn’t inconceivable as there’s be more to come. This would be a monumental win should she pull it off.
Her trainer wholeheartedly believes despite the substantial hurdles to overcome as he stated: “I would like to think she goes to the Nunthorpe with a favourite’s chance.” With this level of faith and confidence in his star filly, you might not want to bet against her.
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