Mark Johnston’s 2,000 Guineas fourth Elarqam looking to bounce back in Sky Bet York Stakes
The colt will bid to make the most of his light weight in the Group 2 contest
MARK JOHNSTON will be hoping for a improved display from his lightly raced colt Elarqam in the Sky Bet York Stakes on Saturday.
The three-year-old flopped when sent off favourite for the Irish 2,000 Guineas last time out and will bid for redemption against his elders.
Hopes are high that the son of Frankel can return to the level of his reappearance fourth behind Saxon Warrior in the 2,000 Guineas, where he was only narrowly beaten by subsequent Derby winner Masar.
That form is very strong and although he couldn't reproduce it at the Curragh, the ability to win a contest of this type is clearly there.
The 7-4 favourite will receive a hefty amount of weight from his rivals, and there will be no excuses given that conditions should be ideal.
Among those lining up against him is the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Smart Call.
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The six-year-old mare had some very strong form when trained in South Africa, but has so far not quite managed to match it over here.
However, she produced her best effort to date when winning a Group 3 at Newcastle last time out and will attempt to match that performance on turf.
Also looking to strike on the Knavesmire is Forest Ranger, who is another on something of a recovery mission after failing to fire in the Eclipse last time out.
That may have been a Group 1 but he was nevertheless very disappointing and trainer Richard Fahey will be hoping the drop in grade can see a return to winning ways.
Completing the eight strong field are Brorocco, Euginio, Fabricate and Euro Nightmare.