Duke of Firenze looks to build on York win

The seven-year-old, who landed the spoils in 2013 when trained by Sir Michael Stoute, bounced back to form when winning at York’s Dante meeting last month. He has been handed stall 20 right by the stands rail.

“He won well at York and came out of that race really well,” said the Bawtry trainer. “We’re drawn on the stands rail which I think is good and we’ve got a couple of speed horses in Caspian Prince and Red Baron near us. Hopefully they’ll go on and we’ll sit behind them. We’re going there with a chance but you need lots of luck.”

Desert Law and Monsieur Joe were first and second for Paul Midgley last year and will try to repeat their exploits. “The ground riding slow would certainly suit Joe, all rain is gratefully received for him,” said the Westow trainer.

“Desert Law likes it there but is badly handicapped compared to last year, but he worked exceptionally well last weekend and is coming back to his old self.

“Duke Of Firenze sets the standard, he was impressive at York and David Griffiths has done a great job with him,” he added.

Legendary racehorse Frankel’s first filly offspring to make the track, Queen Kindly, bolted up on her debut at Catterick. Jockey Jamie Spencer let Katebird make the running but had five lengths in hand on the pacesetter at the end. Queen Kindly is trained at Malton by Richard Fahey.

Ripon jump jockey Andrew Thornton took his career tally to 994 when Gold Ingot prevailed at Market Rasen.

Top steeplechaser Menorah is the headline act in tomorrow’s Perth Gold Cup.