We send two to York on Friday, when the two times course winner, Irv, and our new boy Carnival Zain, go head to head in a maximum field of 20, on ground described as soft, good to soft in places.
Both horses are declared in 4.25.pm, a 61-80 handicap over the seven furlongs and 192 yards.
Irv goes back to the Knavesmire for the 10th time in his 24 race career to date. He was a dual winner over this course and distance back in June, and July 2019, on the latter occasion from a mark 8lb higher than now. He has run with credit on all four starts this season, and should have no problem with the ground, although his draw in stall 18 could have been a lot kinder, Aiden Brookes who has ridden him on all occasions this season retains the ride.
The ex French Carnival Zain makes his stable debut, and he has been a lot more fortunate with the draw, coming out of stall five, he will be partnered by Billy Garritty who can take off 3lb. Carnival Zain has raced on 10 occasions to date, he was a winner as a juvenile, and placed twice at three. He shouldn't lack too much for fitness, as his only start at four was at Cholet in April, when finishing a three and three quarters length fourth. His mark of 77 is probably high enough, and the trip would be his minimum, but the going will suit.
To keep up to date with all the latest happenings at Oakwood Stables, and Sharp Hill, click on 'NEWS' at www.mickyhammondracing.
Good luck to the connections, Irvine Lynch, and The Futurists.